How to Clean Natural Stone Tile Shower Floors
Natural stone tile floors are beautiful and durable, but they can be prone to stains and build-up if not properly cared for. Here's a guide on how to clean your natural stone tile shower floor and keep it looking its best:
1. Gather Your Supplies
- Cleaning solution: Choose a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for natural stone. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or acidic cleaners, as they can damage the stone.
- Soft-bristled brush: A scrub brush with soft bristles will help loosen dirt and grime without scratching the stone.
- Microfiber cloths: Microfiber cloths are great for absorbing excess moisture and leaving your floors streak-free.
- Bucket: For mixing your cleaning solution.
- Squeegee: This is helpful for removing excess water and preventing water spots.
2. Prepare the Shower Floor
- Remove loose debris: Before cleaning, remove any visible debris like hair, soap scum, or dust from the shower floor.
- Pre-soak the floor: Spray the floor with warm water and let it soak for a few minutes to soften any stubborn grime.
3. Clean the Floor
- Mix your cleaning solution: Follow the instructions on your chosen cleaner and mix a solution in your bucket.
- Apply the cleaning solution: Using a sponge or soft-bristled brush, apply the cleaning solution to the shower floor, working in small sections.
- Scrub: Gently scrub the floor, paying extra attention to areas with heavy build-up.
- Rinse: Use warm water to thoroughly rinse away the cleaning solution and any loosened dirt.
- Dry: Use a squeegee to remove excess water from the floor. Then, use a clean microfiber cloth to dry any remaining moisture.
4. Maintenance Tips
- Clean regularly: Clean your stone tile shower floor at least once a week to prevent dirt and grime from building up.
- Avoid harsh cleaners: Always use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for natural stone.
- Seal the stone: Sealing your stone tile floor will help protect it from stains and make it easier to clean. Follow the instructions on the sealant you choose.
- Clean up spills immediately: Spills can leave stains on natural stone. Clean them up quickly to avoid potential damage.
5. Specific Stone Types
- Marble: Marble is a porous stone and can be susceptible to etching from acidic cleaners. Always use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for marble.
- Granite: Granite is a more durable stone, but it can still be damaged by harsh chemicals. Use a pH-neutral cleaner and avoid acidic cleaners.
- Travertine: Travertine is a porous stone and needs to be sealed regularly. Use a pH-neutral cleaner and avoid acidic cleaners.
6. When to Call a Professional
If you have extensive staining or damage to your stone tile shower floor, it's best to consult a professional stone cleaning and restoration company. They have the tools and expertise to handle more difficult cleaning situations.
Following these tips will help keep your natural stone tile shower floor looking its best for years to come.
