Your home’s finishes and fixtures require special care to maintain their beauty and longevity. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to properly clean and care for materials like stone, backsplash, countertops, flooring, and metal finishes.
NATURAL STONE (GRANITE, MARBLE, QUARTZITE)
Credit:CDK Stone
Wipe Daily: Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe stone surfaces. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface.
Use pH-Neutral Cleaners: For deeper cleaning, use cleaners formulated for natural stone. Acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon juice can etch stone.
Seal the Surface: Most natural stones need to be sealed every 6-12 months to prevent staining. Ensure that the sealer is appropriate for the type of stone you have.
BACKSPLASH (TILE, GLASS, STONE)
Credit: Lowes
Tile and Grout: Clean with a non-abrasive all-purpose cleaner. For grout, use a grout-specific cleaner or a mild bleach solution for stubborn stains. Avoid using harsh brushes that can damage the grout.
Glass: Wipe glass backsplashes with a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Avoid using abrasive scrubbing pads that can scratch the surface.
Stone: Similar to countertops, stone backsplashes should be wiped down with pH-neutral cleaners and sealed regularly.
COUNTERTOPS (GRANITE, MARBLE, QUARTZ, LAMINATE, SOLID SURFACE)
Credit: FBDInteriors
Granite/Marble: Use a pH-neutral cleaner and wipe spills immediately to avoid staining. Seal granite and marble every 6-12 months to protect the surface.
Quartz: Although quartz is non-porous, it should still be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid exposing quartz to high heat or harsh chemicals.
Laminate: Wipe with a damp cloth and a mild soap. Avoid soaking the laminate as water can penetrate and damage it.
Solid Surface: Clean with mild soap and water. For deeper stains, a non-abrasive cleaner can be used. Avoid placing hot pans directly on the surface to prevent heat damage.
FLOORING (HARDWOOD, TILE, VINYL, STONE, CARPET)
Credit: COREtec
Hardwood: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove debris. Clean with a wood-safe cleaner and avoid excessive water, which can cause warping. Use furniture pads to prevent scratches.
Tile: Mop regularly with a non-acidic cleaner. Clean grout with a mild bleach solution or a grout cleaner. Seal grout lines to prevent staining.
Vinyl: Sweep and mop regularly with a vinyl-safe cleaner. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could damage the surface.
Stone: Clean with pH-neutral stone cleaners and seal periodically to protect the surface.
Carpet: Vacuum frequently and spot-clean spills immediately. Have carpets professionally cleaned at least once a year to remove deep dirt and allergens.
METAL FINISHES (BRASS, CHROME, STAINLESS STEEL, BRONZE)
Credit: Delta
Brass: Clean with a mild soap and water solution, then dry with a soft cloth. Use a brass polish if desired, but avoid harsh chemicals that can strip the finish.
Chrome: Wipe with a damp cloth and dry immediately to prevent water spots. For stubborn stains, use a mixture of water and vinegar.
Stainless Steel: Clean with a microfiber cloth and a stainless-steel cleaner. Always wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid streaks.
Bronze: Dust regularly and wipe with a damp cloth. For aged bronze, avoid harsh cleaners that could strip the patina.
GENERAL TIPS FOR ALL FINISHES
Credit: Etsy The Polished Jar
Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Use non-abrasive sponges and cleaners to prevent scratching.
Wipe Spills Immediately: Prevent staining by wiping up spills as soon as they happen.
Use Coasters and Trivets: Protect surfaces from heat and moisture by using coasters under drinks and trivets under hot cookware.
Maintain Seals: Stone and grout surfaces should be sealed regularly to prevent staining and maintain durability.
By following these guidelines, your finishes and fixtures will remain pristine and durable for years to come. Share this care guide with your housecleaner or anyone responsible for maintaining your home’s beauty.
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