Natural stone floors and surfaces bring elegance and durability to homes, but they require special care to maintain their beauty and longevity. Cleaning natural stone can be tricky because harsh chemicals and certain cleaning methods can damage the surface or reduce its lifespan.
Steam cleaning is often praised for its eco-friendly and effective cleaning capabilities, but is it safe to use on natural stone surfaces? In this guide, well explore whether steam cleaning works on natural stone, its benefits and risks, and how to approach cleaning natural stone safely.
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What is Natural Stone?
Natural stone refers to materials that are quarried from the earth and used for building and decorative purposes. Common types of natural stone include:
- Marble
- Granite
- Limestone
- Travertine
- Slate
- Sandstone
Each type of stone has unique properties and textures, which can make cleaning and maintaining them challenging. Natural stone is porous, meaning it can absorb moisture, dirt, and stains more easily than synthetic surfaces. Therefore, its essential to choose the right cleaning method to preserve the integrity and appearance of the stone.
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What is Steam Cleaning?
Steam cleaning is a cleaning method that uses hot water vapor to remove dirt, grime, and bacteria from surfaces. Steam cleaners heat water to high temperatures (usually between 200?F and 300?F), turning it into steam. The steam is then applied to the surface using a mop or nozzle. The heat and moisture loosen dirt and debris, which can be wiped away easily.
Steam cleaning is highly effective for sanitizing and cleaning hard surfaces like tile, grout, and sealed floors. It offers several benefits, including:
- Chemical-Free Cleaning: Steam cleaning uses only water, making it eco-friendly and safe for homes with pets and children.
- Kills Germs and Bacteria: The high temperature of the steam kills up to 99.9% of germs, bacteria, and allergens.
- Quick Drying: Since steam cleaning uses minimal water, surfaces dry much faster than with traditional mopping.
There’s more to explore! Here’s another valuable read: How Does a Steamer Work for Cleaning?
Can You Use Steam Cleaning on Natural Stone?
The answer depends on the type of natural stone you have and whether it has been sealed properly. Natural stone is porous, meaning it can absorb water and other substances. Steam cleaning can be safe and effective on certain types of sealed natural stone surfaces, but it may cause damage to unsealed stone or stones that are sensitive to heat and moisture.
Safe Natural Stones for Steam Cleaning
- Sealed Granite: Granite is one of the hardest natural stones and is often sealed to prevent moisture absorption. Steam cleaning is generally safe for sealed granite countertops and floors.
- Sealed Slate: Slate is durable and can withstand steam cleaning if it has been properly sealed. Unsealed slate, however, may absorb water and become damaged.
- Sealed Marble: Marble is a more delicate natural stone, but if sealed correctly, steam cleaning can be used with caution on marble surfaces.
Stones to Avoid Steam Cleaning
- Unsealed Marble: Marble is highly porous and sensitive to moisture. Steam cleaning can penetrate the surface and lead to discoloration or water damage if the stone is not sealed.
- Limestone and Travertine: These stones are soft, porous, and can be easily damaged by steam cleaning. Even if sealed, its generally not recommended to use high heat on these surfaces.
- Sandstone: Sandstone is very porous and easily absorbs moisture, making it unsuitable for steam cleaning.
Benefits of Steam Cleaning Natural Stone (When Appropriate)
When used on sealed natural stone surfaces, steam cleaning offers several benefits:
Chemical-Free Cleaning
Steam cleaning is an eco-friendly method that relies solely on water to clean and disinfect surfaces. This eliminates the need for chemical cleaners that could potentially harm natural stone, making steam cleaning a safer option for both your stone surfaces and the environment.
Kills Germs and Bacteria
The high temperature of the steam can kill germs, bacteria, and viruses, making it ideal for disinfecting stone surfaces. This is particularly beneficial for kitchen countertops and bathroom floors, where hygiene is crucial.
Effective at Removing Dirt and Grime
Steam penetrates the surface to loosen dirt, grime, and debris that may have accumulated over time. For sealed natural stone, steam cleaning can provide a deep clean without the need for scrubbing or abrasive cleaners that might scratch or damage the stone.
Reduces the Risk of Water Stains
Because steam cleaning uses very little water, it dries quickly, reducing the risk of water stains or damage to the stone. This is especially important for natural stone surfaces like granite or marble that can develop water spots if moisture is left on them for too long.
Safe for Sealed Surfaces
When used on properly sealed natural stone, steam cleaning is safe and effective. The sealant creates a barrier that prevents moisture from penetrating the stone, allowing the steam to clean the surface without causing damage.
Risks of Steam Cleaning Natural Stone
While steam cleaning can be beneficial for some natural stone surfaces, it comes with certain risks, especially for porous or unsealed stone. Here are some of the potential risks:
Water Absorption in Porous Stone
Natural stones like limestone, travertine, and unsealed marble are porous and can absorb moisture. Steam cleaning introduces moisture to the surface, which can seep into the stone and cause long-term damage, including cracks, discoloration, and weakening of the stone.
Damage to Sealant
While steam cleaning is generally safe for sealed stone, repeated exposure to high heat and moisture may wear down the sealant over time. If the sealant becomes compromised, moisture can penetrate the stone, leading to potential damage. Its important to reseal natural stone surfaces periodically to maintain their protection.
Streaking and Water Spots
If the stone is not properly dried after steam cleaning, streaks and water spots may appear, particularly on marble and granite surfaces. This can diminish the polished appearance of the stone.
Potential for Surface Etching
Some natural stones, like marble and travertine, are prone to etching when exposed to acidic or harsh substances. While steam itself isnt acidic, the heat can sometimes exacerbate existing weaknesses in the stone, causing etching or surface dullness.
How to Safely Steam Clean Natural Stone
If you have sealed natural stone surfaces that are safe for steam cleaning, here are some steps to follow to ensure youre cleaning them correctly and avoiding damage:
Check the Sealant
Before steam cleaning, check that the stone surface is properly sealed. You can test the seal by placing a few drops of water on the stone. If the water beads up and does not absorb into the stone, the seal is intact, and the surface is safe for steam cleaning. If the water absorbs, you should reseal the stone before proceeding.
Use the Lowest Steam Setting
If your steam cleaner has adjustable settings, use the lowest setting for natural stone surfaces. This minimizes the amount of heat and moisture that comes into contact with the stone, reducing the risk of damage.
Keep the Steam Cleaner Moving
Dont let the steam cleaner sit in one place for too long. Keep the mop or nozzle moving continuously to prevent excessive heat and moisture from accumulating in one area. This is especially important for sensitive stones like marble.
Dry the Surface Immediately
After steam cleaning, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the stone surface. This ensures that no moisture is left behind, which could potentially cause water spots or stains.
Reseal the Stone Regularly
To maintain the protection of your natural stone surfaces, reseal them regularlyat least once every one to two years, depending on usage and the type of stone. Sealing helps protect the stone from moisture, stains, and scratches.
Alternatives to Steam Cleaning Natural Stone
If steam cleaning is not recommended for your type of natural stone, there are alternative cleaning methods that are safe and effective:
pH-Neutral Cleaners
Natural stone should always be cleaned with pH-neutral cleaners that wont damage the surface or cause etching. Avoid acidic or alkaline cleaners, as these can erode the stones surface over time.
Mild Soap and Water
For regular cleaning, a mixture of mild dish soap and water is safe for most natural stone surfaces. Use a soft cloth or mop to clean the stone, and dry the surface immediately to prevent water spots.
Microfiber Cloths
Microfiber cloths are gentle on natural stone and can be used for daily cleaning and dusting. They can remove dirt and debris without scratching the surface.
Specialized Stone Cleaners
There are cleaners specifically designed for natural stone, formulated to protect the stones surface while effectively removing dirt and grime. These products are safe to use on sensitive stones like marble and limestone.
Steam Cleaning Natural Stone vs Other Cleaning Methods: A Comparison
| Aspect | Steam Cleaning | Traditional Cleaning Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical-Free Cleaning | Yes, uses only water | No, typically requires soaps or cleaners |
| Effectiveness on Dirt and Grime | Highly effective on sealed stone | Effective, but may require scrubbing |
| Risk of Damage | High for unsealed or sensitive stone | Lower risk with proper products and techniques |
| Disinfection | Kills 99.9% of germs and bacteria | Limited disinfection, depends on the cleaner used |
| Cost | High initial investment for a steam cleaner | Low cost for soap, water, and cloths |
| Environmental Impact | Low, no chemicals used | May contribute to chemical pollution |
Conclusion
Steam cleaning can work on natural stone, but it depends on the type of stone and whether it has been properly sealed. Sealed granite, slate, and marble can safely be cleaned with a steam cleaner, offering chemical-free, effective results. However, unsealed or porous stones like limestone, travertine, and sandstone should not be steam cleaned due to their vulnerability to moisture and heat.
To safely steam clean natural stone, always ensure the surface is sealed, use the lowest steam setting, and dry the stone immediately afterward. For stones that are not suitable for steam cleaning, alternative methods like pH-neutral cleaners and microfiber cloths can still provide effective and safe cleaning results.
By following the correct procedures and understanding the limitations of steam cleaning on natural stone, you can maintain the beauty and durability of your natural stone surfaces for years to come.
I’m Allen Kim, the chief editor of plumbinginto. I am a mid level plumber and assign to an local firm over 4 years of experience. During the working period, most of my experience is related to the house plumbing. I learned about the thing, when working with most experienced people in this sector, one must be as good as the inspector or better with knowledge of the project as well as the practical aspects of plumbing industry.