Limestone cleaning tips

Limestone cleaning

The limestone is great material, it comes in different shape and sizes. Its been used since ancient times, as well in current modern days. What makes the limestone material different from the rest of the natural stones is that is very soft. Thus this makes it suitable not only for flooring but for monuments as well.

Based on the specifics of the limestone and our professional experience we are happy to share some of cleaning tricks with you.
Start with simple sweeping and vacuuming the floor

The main reason to start with floor sweeping and vacuuming is that this is very soft stone and the dirt and small objects will damage it easily. If you do not sweep of vacuum the floor often the floor may be scratched. Please note that removing of the scratches from the limestone floor is not simple process and you wont be able to do it yourself. Thus our advise is such case to seek professional floor restoration service.

Mop the limestone floor

Moping the floor often is with the same reason as above. You need to keep your floor as clean and tidy as possible. Then your floor will look like new for a long period of time. Please note that its best to use special detergents for cleaning limestone. This is usually mild type of detergent. Another important point is to change the bucket water often and most importantly to use soft-bristled scrub brush.

Fresh stains – act quick!

In there is fresh stain on you floor you need to acts quickly, as the limestone will absorb it fast. The best way to prevent stains is to use clean cloth and to brush the stain as quickly as possible. Once done you can rinse the floor with clear water.

How to remove old floor stain?

You will be lucky to remove the new stains on time. However they are cases with old stains. Based on our experience they are two main types of stains. One that are removed easily and one that are oily old stains – these are the ones that are hard to remove.

You can start cleaning the stains with using water and gentle soap detergent. For the soap detergent you can use simple dish soap. Spray the floor stain with mixture of warm water and soap detergents. If you have at home limestone cleaning detergent you can use it. Let is “sink” for couple moments and gently scrub with clean cloth.

Trick for removing oily old stains

Based on our experience we found out that using acetone (or nail polish) is very effective when trying to remover old oily limestone stains. The main reason to use acetone or acetone based nail polish is that this will break down the grease without damaging the stone. Once you apply the acetone leave it for two minutes and then rinse it with clean water by clean rag. Our advise is to never mix different detergents. For example do not make the mistake of mixing bleach and acetone (or another detergent). As this will damage your floor.

If there is small discoloration you can try to remove it by using hydrogen peroxide (which is alternative for the bleach). Please use very small amounts, our advise is to use about one tea spoon. If the discoloration spot is large you may use two.

Removing old water stains

The limestone floors tents to keep many water stains (if they are not removed while wet). You can use steel wool pad with very low grade (for example #0000). Gently clean the stain with warm water while using the steel wool pad. The old water stain will be removed in no time.
How to remove deep limestone stains?

For the deep stains you must commercial poultice solutions. This is special detergent which is specifically made to tackle those deep stains and most importantly will not damage your floor.

Limestone cleaning tips:

Limestone is a natural stone that is commonly used in both interior and exterior applications, such as flooring, countertops, and cladding. Over time the surface can become dirty and stained. Thus it will require cleaning to restore its natural beauty. Here are our tips for cleaning limestone:

Use a mild detergent: Limestone is a porous stone that can be easily damaged by harsh chemicals. Use a mild detergent or stone-specific cleaner to avoid damage to the surface of the limestone.
Avoid acidic cleaners: Acids, such as vinegar or lemon juice, can etch and damage limestone. It is important to avoid using acidic cleaners on limestone surfaces.
Use a soft brush: When cleaning limestone, use a soft brush, such as a nylon brush, to avoid scratching the surface of the stone.
Blot up spills immediately: Limestone is porous and can stain easily. Blot up spills as soon as they happen to prevent staining.
Seal the surface: Limestone is a porous stone that can be easily stained. Sealing the surface can help to protect it from stains and make it easier to clean.
Clean with warm water: Clean the limestone with warm water and a mild detergent, then rinse with clean water. Dry the surface with a clean, dry cloth.
Hire professional help: For tough stains, hire a professional stone cleaning company. We have the right tools and knowledge to clean the surface without damaging it.

It’s important to remember that limestone is a natural stone. Therefore, its color and texture may vary. It is always recommended to test the cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface.

Do’s and Dont’s when cleaning limestone:

Here are couple of do’s and don’ts when cleaning limestone. You can use to protect and maintain the natural beauty and durability of your limestone surfaces. If you’re unsure about how to clean your limestone surfaces properly, it’s always best to consult with a professional limestone cleaning and restoration service for guidance:

Do’s:

Do use a soft, non-abrasive cloth or sponge to clean limestone surfaces.
Do use a pH-neutral cleaner or a cleaner specifically formulated for limestone.
Do test any new cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that it doesn’t damage or discolor the limestone.
Do blot up spills and stains immediately to prevent them from seeping into the limestone.
Do use a sealer to protect limestone surfaces from stains and spills.

Don’t:

Don’t use acidic or abrasive cleaners on limestone, such as vinegar or bleach, as they can damage the surface and cause etching or discoloration.
Don’t use steel wool or other abrasive scrubbing tools on limestone surfaces.
Don’t allow water or cleaning solution to sit on the surface of the limestone for an extended period of time, as this can cause water marks or discoloration.
Don’t use pressure washers or high-pressure water to clean limestone, as this can cause damage and erosion to the surface.
Don’t use hot water or steam cleaning on limestone surfaces, as this can also cause damage to the surface.

Conclusion

You can successfully remove stains from your limestone floor. However you may encounter tough stains that you need to call the professional limestone cleaners. Our services are specially designed to tackle and remove tough stains. We will not only remove the stain but most importantly will seal the floor which will prevent future stains.

Depending on the condition of your floor our limestone technician will offer either simple floor cleaning or floor grinding service which is complete floor restoration service. You can check one of our limestone cleaning project which finished with very happy customer!

You can take advantage of our professional services in:

Do not hesitate to contact us for free floor evaluation, quote or simply for floor cleaning advise. We will be happy to help in any case and of course free of charge!

Frequently asked questions:

Q: What is the best way to clean limestone?
A: The best way to clean limestone is to use a pH-neutral cleaner or a cleaner specifically formulated for limestone. Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth or sponge to apply the cleaner and avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface.

Q: Can I use vinegar to clean limestone?
A: No, vinegar is acidic and can damage the surface of limestone. Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners on limestone, and instead use a pH-neutral cleaner or a cleaner specifically formulated for limestone.

Q: How often should I clean my limestone surfaces?
A: The frequency of cleaning your limestone surfaces depends on the amount of foot traffic, spills, and other factors. However, it is generally recommended to clean limestone surfaces once every 1-2 weeks to prevent dirt and debris buildup.

Q: Can I pressure wash my limestone surfaces?
A: No, pressure washing can cause damage and erosion to the surface of limestone. Avoid using pressure washers or high-pressure water to clean limestone surfaces, and instead use a gentle cleaning method.

Q: How do I remove stains from limestone?
A: To remove stains from limestone, use a pH-neutral cleaner or a cleaner specifically formulated for limestone. For tough stains, you can use a poultice made from baking soda and water to draw out the stain.

Q: Can I seal my limestone surfaces?
A: Yes, sealing your limestone surfaces can help protect them from stains and spills. Use a sealer specifically formulated for limestone and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Q: How do I prevent water marks on my limestone surfaces?
A: To prevent water marks on your limestone surfaces, avoid allowing water or cleaning solution to sit on the surface for an extended period of time. Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth or sponge to dry the surface after cleaning.

Q: Can I use a steam cleaner on my limestone surfaces?
A: No, steam cleaning can cause damage to the surface of limestone. Avoid using hot water or steam cleaning on limestone surfaces and instead use a gentle cleaning method.