Tips on Cleaning Travertine Tiles

Travertine can endure years of wear and tear, but it is not as hard as granite or marble surface - travertine tiles can become etched over time. Clean up spills immediately to avoid staining. Use a soft cloth or a sponge with hot water and a stone cleaner for regular cleanups. Clean the stone with a mild soap three or four times a year. If you are using a mop, make sure the mop is clean and free of any residual grit or dirt that might scratch the stone. Do not use acidic cleaners (such as vinegar or lemon), generic bathroom cleaners or grout cleaners. Acidity can etch the stone. It is usually best to consult a professional when dealing with tough stains. Bathroom and grout cleaners can contain abrasive ingredients that can also scratch the stone. Keep your tile grout clean by using the same methods as you would for the tile itself. Keep floors free of grit by regularly using a clean dust mop, not a vacuum - which its wheels can potentially scratch the stone.

Sealing Travertine

Travertine comes in finishes ranging from matte to highly polished. Depending on the finish you have on your tiles, you may need to seal your travertine. Keep in mind that sealing does not prevent etching; it is used to prevent stains. Travertine with a polished finish is more stain resistant than a matte finish, so you might want to consider a more polished travertine for a kitchen or bathroom counter. Consult with the stone's manufacturer about recommendations for sealing your tile.

Travertine Preventative Maintenance

Remember some simple steps of preventative care to help keep your travertine looking like new. If you have travertine tile countertops, use coasters underneath glasses, cans and bottles. Drinks can leave a ring stain, and acidic drinks such as fruit juice or soda can actually etch rings into the stone's surface. On a bathroom counter, use a tray to hold toiletries. This will help keep chemicals from damaging the stone. Dirt and grit can etch travertine, so if you have travertine tile floors in heavily trafficked areas, consider using doormats or area rugs. Keep in mind that if your travertine gets etched, scratched or stained, and over time looks marred and damaged, a professional stone refinisher will need to refinish your stone.