Care and Maintenance Guidelines
Clean Regularly: Clean travertine surfaces frequently with a pH-neutral cleaner using a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners as they can cause adverse damage. Rinse the surface with clean water and dry using a soft towel to prevent water spots.
Sealing: Periodical sealing is required to prevent staining and moisture absorption. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before sealing. Re-apply the sealer as needed, typically every 6 to 12 months or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Prevent Staining: Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining. Travertine is a porous material and can leave permanent stain marks if not cleaned spills promptly. Use coasters, placemats, and trivets for increased surface protection
Avoid Abrasive Materials: Using abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or harsh chemicals on travertine surfaces can scratch or damage the finish. Choose mild, non-reactive cleaners specifically formulated for use on natural stone surfaces.
Prevent Scratches: Place cutting boards, trivets, and hot pads to protect the surface from scratches and heat damage. Avoid dragging heavy or sharp objects across the surface to ensure effective scratch protection.
Regular Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance tasks as necessary such as sweeping, vacuuming, or dusting to remove dirt, dust, and debris from the surface. This helps prevent buildup and gives the surface a new look finish.
Seal the Pores: Seal the pores of your travertine surfaces with cement and epoxy fillings to prevent dirt accumulation on the surface.
Professional Maintenance: Consider hiring a professional stone care specialist if necessary. Expert maintenance can restore the surface’s beauty and longevity.
Basic Guidelines for Maintaining Travertine Countertops
Use Cutting Boards: Use cutting boards to protect your travertine countertops from everyday scratches.
Avoid Impact Damage: Even if travertine is durable, it is not indestructible. Avoid chipping and fractures caused by dropping heavy impacts.
Use Trivets and Hot Pads: Protect your surfaces from heat by placing trivets or hot pads under hot cookware. Sudden temperature changes to the surface may lead to thermal shock and can cause potential cracks.
Be Mindful of Edges: Avoid leaning on or placing heavy pressure on the edge of your travertine countertops. Intense pressure can cause chipping around the edges.
Sealing: Proper sealing is essential to protect your travertine countertops from stains, etches, and other damages. Sealing travertine countertops at least once a year is necessary.
Keep Sharp Objects Away: Keep sharp objects like knives away from the surface to minimize the risk of accidental scratching, especially in kitchen areas.
Clean Spills Promptly: While travertine can resist stains to an extent, it is always better to immediately clean up spills to prevent permanent staining. Acidic liquids can cause discoloration unattended.
How to Clean Unusual Stains
Grease: Remove the grease using a paper towel. Then, using a damp sponge along with some dish soap, wipe the stained area thoroughly. Clean with water, and dry off the surface.
Ink: Use a tissue to wipe off the stain. Following that, clean the portion with a cotton ball damped with some amount of alcohol. Clean with water, and dry the surface using a soft cloth.
Red wine: To absorb the spill, use an absorbent towel. Mix equal amounts of white vinegar and water. Apply the solution with a sponge and let it settle for a few minutes. Rinse with clean water, and keep the surface dry.
Coffee: Remove the spill using a tissue. Then, mix one part of baking soda with two parts of water and apply the mixture onto the surface using a sponge. Allow the solution to settle for a few minutes, rinse with water, and keep it dry.
