Natural stone brings warmth and character to kitchens and bathrooms. Granite worktops, marble vanities, stone splashbacks and feature walls all add a sense of permanence and quality to a home. But stone isn’t indestructible. Clean it incorrectly, and the damage often happens quietly, over time.
The key to caring for stone surfaces is restraint. For everyday cleaning, warm water and a soft microfibre cloth are often enough. When something more is needed, a pH-neutral cleaner designed specifically for natural stone is the safest option. These products clean effectively without stripping sealants or dulling the surface. A very small amount of mild dish soap, well diluted, can also be used occasionally, provided the surface is rinsed and dried afterwards.
What matters just as much is knowing what to avoid. Many common household cleaners are too aggressive for stone, even those that appear gentle. Acidic products such as vinegar, lemon juice and citric acid will etch marble and limestone. Bleach and ammonia can damage sealants and cause discolouration. Limescale removers and bathroom descalers are particularly harsh, and abrasive powders or scouring pads can scratch the surface permanently. Multi-purpose sprays should also be used with caution unless they are clearly labelled as stone-safe.
In kitchens, stone surfaces benefit from quick attention to spills, especially oils, wine, coffee and citrus, which can stain or etch if left too long. In bathrooms, good ventilation and drying after use help prevent soap residue and mineral build-up from settling into porous surfaces. Stone used on walls or splashbacks should be dusted regularly and cleaned gently, as soaking stone can allow moisture to penetrate beneath the surface.
Most stone surfaces are sealed, and maintaining that seal is an important part of long-term care. Periodic resealing helps protect against staining and makes everyday cleaning easier.
At Lenuma, we approach stone with care and respect. Our teams are trained to recognise different materials and to use products that clean effectively without causing harm. Stone should age gracefully, developing character rather than damage.
Looked after properly, natural stone stays calm, clean and timeless — just as it was intended to be.