Is cleaning stone with just plain water a good idea?

 

Is cleaning stone with just plain water a good idea?

By Frederick M. Hueston, Stoneforensics.com

I've lost count of the number of times I've asked homeowners or building maintenance workers what they use to clean stone surfaces, and they've said nothing but water. They appear reluctant to use any kind of cleanser for fear of ruining the stone. I'll explain why using just water to clean isn't a good idea in the next section.

 

The cleaning chemicals we use on stone surfaces can have a major effect on our health and the environment, yet cleaning is an integral part of proper maintenance. Many people nowadays, in an effort to reduce their environmental impact, are choosing to use solely water. Water alone may seem like a fantastic cleaning solution, but there are really a few reasons why this isn't the case.

 

Dirt and grime can't be washed away with just water. It's true that water is necessary for cleaning, but it's also true that it won't do a good job of getting the grime off. Frequently, dirt and grime are embedded in the stone surface, making it impossible to remove them with just water. Water alone as a cleaning agent may actually spread dirt and bacteria around instead of eliminating them.

Viruses and bacteria can survive in water.

Even though water cleaning might get rid of obvious filth and grime, it won't do anything to destroy germs and bacteria lurking in the background. Using a disinfectant cleaner or a cleaning product with components specifically safe for stone surfaces is the best way to get rid of germs and bacteria on stone surfaces. It's especially crucial to use these substances in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms, where the spread of germs and bacteria is constant.

Stains may need more than just water to be removed. Certain stains, like those found on natural stone floors and countertops, are nearly impossible to wash out with just water. Oil and grease stains, for example, may be removed with a poultice that includes a degreaser or solvent. When cleaning these types of stains, using merely water can actually make the problem worse.

In conclusion, cleaning stone surfaces with water alone is not a good method. Only special cleaners can eliminate germs and filth, while water alone will leave stains intact. In order to remove dirt and germs from your stone, you should only use cleaning products that are made for that type of stone and have the right chemicals.