Having natural tiles installed in your home like limestone can be a dream come true moment for any homeowner who wants to create their desired one-of-a-kind look that will surely leave a lasting impression on visitors. However, the make-or-break point would be how you clean the limestone. Cleaning your limestone is a crucial task to keep this natural stone in its pristine condition for years. When you know how to clean limestone then you can make them last as long as you want.
The best thing about limestone cleaning is that it is not a tough task. You can get it done by just using the vacuum, broom, dry and wet mop, a detergent designed for limestones, sealant, and stain remover. You can even create your lime stone cleaner by using flour and hydrogen peroxide.
Cleaning The Limestone
Cleaning the limestone shouldn’t be hard. Here is how to get it done easier.
Preparing the Limestone Surface
The first thing you need to do is to prepare the required surface. Your target surface such as a natural limestone floor shouldn’t have anything that restrains you from cleaning. Remove the furniture, rugs, and anything else before cleaning. Once it is clear you should first use the dry mop on the surface. Use a soft dry cloth to remove any dust from the Limestone tiles. Read also our blog on natural stone choices for modern homes.
The next thing you can do is use a vacuum or soft-bristled broom to sweep away and remove any loose dirt and debris. One of the best limestone cleaning tips would be to use of vacuum at low speed. This is best because it will suck up any dust or debris that you may have missed during swapping or the broom may have not reached at some tight corners.
While using the vacuum do not use the spinning brush because the brush is rather hard and it can scratch the surface of the limestone. Clean limestone surface is crucial because the dust and debris can accumulate and make things even worse when get wet. This is why, remember to prepare the surface first.
Cleaning the Limestone Surface With Soap Mixture
Cleaning the limestone surface can be done via water and soap mixture. Always use a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge to apply the soapy solution. Though the soap solution can easily be made but not with just any ordinary soap. You will need the specialty soap that is designed only for limestone. These soaps are usually non-acidic and perfect for a porous material like limestone. Apply the solution with a cloth softly then wipe and clean it with the soft cloth gently.
How To Clean Limestone Fireplace?
A limestone fireplace can be a great addition to any interior. However, they will only look better with regular cleaning. You will need to clean it once in a while, especially in our season because they aren’t being used too often. Here is the best way to clean the limestone fireplace.
-
Sweeping The Fireplace
Once you have used the fireplace you will need to sweep any dust, debris, or any other fire residue on the surface. This can help prevent marks and stains on the limestone. Use a soft cloth to remove any dust and then sweep gently with a soft bristled brush to remove any extra residue and dust.
-
Wipe The Surface
Once you swept down the surface you will need to wipe it down. First, dust out any further micro dust and debris with a soft cloth and look for any stubborn marks. Now with the help of limestone cleaning liquid added in the warm water, damp the cloth in it and wipe away the fireplace. Depending on the usage, cleaning once or twice a month your fireplace will stay in good condition for longer. However, keep in mind that limestone is a porous material. So make sure all soapy residue is removed and your fireplace is dried up with another dry soft cloth.
-
Seal The Limestone
For further protection, you can seal the fireplace annually as it can help prevent marks and stains from damaging the limestone surface over time. Just when you have cleaned and wiped the fireplace, secure the surroundings of the fireplace and apply the sealant for the limestone fireplaces. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Marks and stains can be sealed in. So, cleaning before use is better. Use the correct sealer because it might darken the limestone.
How To Clean Limestone Floors?
Before you clean limestone floors, keep in mind that not every homemade solution and hack is helpful. Most of the time floor cleaning hacks use lemon, vinegar, and baking soda. Though they aren’t necessarily bad they aren’t suited for the limestone floors. They are all acidic by nature so avoiding it is necessary. You should also avoid bleach. They are alkaline but are still harsh for limestone. Do not use any intense heating method such as steam cleaning because heat can damage the sealant and the protection of the floor can be compromised. Here is what you can do instead:
- Start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove any loose dirt and dust.
- Get some warm water in the bucket and add one part compatible lime stone cleaner and 10 parts water (or follow the instructions from the manufacturer)
- Use a clean and soft cloth or mop to damp clean the limestone surface.
- If there are any stubborn marks or stains then do not use harsh or abrasive brush and clothes to clean them. Instead, use a soft-bristled brush, or cloth and wipe gently to avoid scratching the surface. Use specific cleaners for limestone that are designed for stains like oil and grease to remove such stubborn stains. If the sealer has been stripped in the process, reapply the sealant.
- Leave the surface with a solution for 5-10 minutes. Mop up and rinse thoroughly with clean water.
How To Clean Outdoor Limestone?
Outdoor limestones have to face several outdoor elements directly. They are directly exposed to the elements like dirt, grime, and mold. Even before you look for products like bleach or so you will need to take your time to understand the easiest and the most safest ways to clean limestone. This is the best way to increase its life span and retain its beauty. Here is what you can do:
-
Daily Sweeping And Dusting
You will be surprised to know how a simple daily sweeping with a soft brush can do wonders for your exterior stone. Removing dust and debris with sweeping and dusting can also be helpful in this regard.
-
Rinse With Water
Rinsing with little water can also help clean the outdoor limestone pavers. Just a garden hose with specialized Nosal can help maintain the beauty of these pavers. If you want it to be even more effective then you can also go for the pressure water on a low setting. By doing this, you’ll get rid of surface debris and dirt. Regularly doing this will prevent build-up and surface scratches.
How To Clean Limestone Pavers
Just like regular outdoor limestone pavers, you can take care of these pavers easily by doing the following:
-
Basic routine cleaning
A basic routine cleaning by using gentle sweeping and dusting will do the thing easily. Just make sure not to scratch the surface with harsh brushes and rubbing.
-
Soap And Water Work Effectively
Stone slabs can be cleaned effectively and safely with warm, soapy water. However, it takes a lot of effort. Ensure you’re using non-acidic soap and dilute it with warm water. Using this solution, you can get most of the grime and dirt off your limestone paving slabs. In case of stubborn stains, discolored stones, or black limestone, you’ll need specialist products.
-
Pressure Wash
This is another good way to clean the limestone pavers conveniently. However, make sure the washer has been set on the lowest levels. Also, do not use the pressure wash method too often as it can damage the sealant and grout.
-
Removing Stains
Identify the stains if you find them on limestone pavers. These pavers can be stained by oil, grease, and other spills like coffee and tea. Every stain on the limestone needs different treatment. For oil and grease stains, you can find specific stain cleaners. On the other hand, if there are spills like coffee then immediate cleaning will help the pavers to stay in pristine condition.
How To Clean Limestone Tiles?
-
Regular Cleaning
Get rid of any loose dirt and debris by dusting or vacuuming your limestone tiles. Don’t scratch the surface by using a hard broom or vacuum with a brush attachment. To clean natural limestone, mix warm water with a pH-neutral cleaner. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution and gently wipe down the tiles. Do not use too much water as limestone is porous and can absorb moisture. After wiping, use a damp cloth to rinse off any soap residue, then dry the tiles with a soft towel.
-
Stain Removal and Maintenance
For tougher stains, you might need a bit more effort. Blot any spills immediately to prevent staining. For stubborn marks, a paste made of baking soda and water can be effective. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a soft brush and rinse. Regularly sealing your limestone tiles will also help protect them from stains and make cleaning easier. Avoid using acidic or harsh cleaners as they can damage the limestone’s surface. The limestone tiles will stay beautiful and durable for years to come with regular care.
Final Words On Cleaning Limestone
Limestone is one of the most beautiful and delicate natural stones that can surely enhance the beauty of your interior and exterior effortlessly. However, their maintenance and regular natural stone cleaning are the best ways to keep them in good condition for years to come. Adding a layer of sealant can add a layer of security to limestone tiles and pavers. Just make sure to follow the guidelines while using any stone cleaner product. This will save you a lot of effort and spending shortly.