Stone shower tiles add a timeless elegance to any bathroom, but their beauty requires proper maintenance.
In this guide, “how to clean natural stone tile shower”
I will give you all the tips for cleaning and preserving stone shower tiles.
Once you are done reading, you will also know how to tackle stains and buildups.
Let’s get started…
Important: On this website, I feature a select number of partners and companies that have products that could help my audience. As an Amazon associate, When you purchase something through my partner links, I might get paid for the referral at no extra cost to you. Read the full disclosure here.
This post is about how to clean natural stone tile shower.
Understanding Your Natural Stone
Choosing the Right Cleaning Products
Dealing with Common Stains and Buildups
Deep Cleaning Natural Stone Tiles
Protecting Your Natural Stone Shower
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Cleaning Options
Understanding Your Natural Stone
Let’s get into understanding the natural stone in your shower.
You know, natural stone isn’t just one thing;
it comes in different types like marble, granite, and limestone.
Each type has its own look and feel.
The surface of the stone can vary a lot, which is pretty cool because it means your shower can have a unique style.
But here’s something important to remember: different stones have different needs.
For instance, some stones are porous, meaning they can absorb water and stuff like soap more easily, which can affect how you clean them.
It’s all about knowing what kind of natural stone you’ve got and what it’s made of.
Once you get that, you’ll have a better idea of how to take care of it so it stays looking great.
Just a little insider info to help you out!
Preparation for Cleaning
Before you start cleaning your natural stone tile shower, there’s a bit of prep work to do.
First off, clear out all your shampoos, soaps, and anything else you’ve got in there.
You want a nice, empty space to work with.
Next up, grab a clean cloth or a
Give the whole shower a once-over to check for any spots or damage.
It’s a good idea to do this regularly for natural stone surfaces because catching problems early can save you a lot of hassle later.
Plus, it’ll help you figure out what kind of cleaning your shower really needs.
So, a little bit of prep can go a long way in keeping your shower looking top-notch!
Choosing the Right Cleaning Products
When it comes to cleaning your natural stone shower surfaces, picking the right products is key.
You want to go for mild detergents and non-acidic cleaners.
There are also specific stone-safe cleaning products out there, which are made just for this kind of stuff.
They’re your best bet for keeping everything looking good.
Now, here’s what to steer clear of: avoid abrasive cleaners, acidic ingredients, and chlorine bleach.
These can really mess up the natural stone, causing more harm than good.
And when you’re scrubbing, ditch any brushes with hard bristles. Instead, use a soft nylon brush.
Trust me, it makes a difference and gives you the best results without scratching the stone.
Just a few smart choices can keep your shower looking great without any damage.
Routine Cleaning Procedures
Let’s talk about keeping that natural stone shower of yours sparkling.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for your regular cleaning routine, whether it’s daily or weekly:
Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning
- Start with Warm Water: First, rinse the shower walls with some warm water. This helps to loosen up any dirt or grime.
- Soft Cloth or Brush: Use a soft cloth or a soft bristle brush. You don’t want anything too harsh that might scratch the stone.
- Gentle Cleaning Agent: Apply a gentle, stone-safe cleaner. Remember, harsh chemicals are a no-go.
- Scrub Gently: With your soft brush or cloth, gently scrub the surfaces. This is usually the hardest part, but take it easy and be thorough.
- Rinse with Clean Water: After scrubbing, rinse off the cleaner with more clean water.
- Dry Off: Use
microfiber towels or a dry towel to wipe down the surfaces. This helps prevent excess water and moisture from sitting on the stone.
Tips to Prevent Water Spots and Soap Scum
- Wipe Down After Use: One of the best ways to prevent water spots and soap scum is to wipe down the shower walls with a clean sponge or cloth after each use.
- Regular Maintenance: Make regular cleaning a habit. It’s easier to prevent buildup than to clean it after it’s set in.
- Proper Ventilation: Keep your bathroom well-ventilated. This reduces moisture buildup, which can lead to water spots and soap scum.
Dealing with Common Stains and Buildups
Dealing with those pesky stains and buildups in your shower can be a bit of a challenge, but I’ve got some tips to help you out.
Let’s break down how to tackle common issues like hard water stains, mildew, soap scum, and body oils.
Removing Hard Water Stains and Mildew
- Lemon Juice and Hydrogen Peroxide: For hard water stains, lemon juice can be a real lifesaver. Just apply it to the stain and let it sit for a bit. For tougher stains or mildew, hydrogen peroxide is your friend. But remember, always test these on a small area first to make sure they don’t damage the stone.
- Magic Eraser: Believe it or not, a magic eraser can work wonders on some types of stains. It’s like a little eraser for all that gunk that builds up over time.
Handling Soap Scum and Body Oils
- Vinegar or Bathroom Cleaner: For soap scum and body oils, a mild bathroom cleaner can do the trick. Sometimes, diluted vinegar works well, but be careful with natural stone.
- Microfibre Cloth: Use a microfibre cloth when wiping down. It’s gentle on the stone and effective in grabbing all the residue.
- Regular Wiping: To prevent build-up, regularly wipe down the shower area, especially after a hot shower when water droplets and calcium carbonate (that’s the white stuff in hard water) can leave marks.
Remember, keeping your stone in tip-top shape is all about regular maintenance.
It might seem like hard work at first, but with these techniques, you’ll keep those common stains and buildups at bay, ensuring your natural stone shower stays clean for years to come.
Plus, it’s super satisfying to see it all clean and shiny!
Deep Cleaning Natural Stone Tiles
Let’s chat about how to give your natural stone tiles a really good deep clean without messing them up.
Deep cleaning is key to keeping everything looking awesome.
When to Perform a Deep Clean
- Timing: It’s a good idea to do a deep clean every few months or so, depending on how much use your shower gets. If you start noticing that regular cleaning isn’t cutting it anymore, that’s your cue for a deep clean.
GET MY FREE CHECKLIST : 10 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOUR START YOUR KITCHEN REMODEL
How to Safely Deep Clean
- Choosing Your Cleaner: First things first, pick the right stone cleaner. There are lots of products out there, but you want something that’s made specifically for natural stone. These are usually the best products for the job and are a popular choice among pros.
- Prep Your Tools: Grab a rubber squeegee, a spray bottle, and your cleaning solution. A squeegee is great for getting rid of excess water without being too harsh on the stone.
- Application: Put your cleaning solution in the spray bottle and apply it to the tiles. This lets you cover the whole area evenly without using too much cleaner.
- Scrubbing Time: For the grout, you might want to use a grout cleaner. Just be gentle and make sure it’s stone-safe.
- Rinsing Off: After scrubbing, take a hot shower or use warm water to rinse everything off. The heat helps to loosen any remaining dirt.
- Drying It Up: Finish off by drying the tiles with a soft cloth or let it air dry.
If you’re ever unsure or the job feels too big, calling in a professional cleaner is always a safe bet.
They know their stuff and can make sure your natural stone stays in great shape.
Remember, a bit of extra care during deep cleaning can really make a difference in keeping your shower looking its best!
Protecting Your Natural Stone Shower
Let’s talk about how to keep your natural stone shower not just clean, but also well-protected and looking gorgeous.
Sealing Natural Stone
- Why Seal?: Applying a stone sealer is super important. It’s like giving your shower a shield against stains and water damage. This is especially crucial for natural stone because it’s pretty porous.
- How Often?: The good news is, you don’t need to do it all the time. Sealing once every couple of years should be enough, but it depends on how much wear and tear your shower gets.
Daily Practices for a Lasting Beauty
- Routine Cleaning: Stick to a routine cleaning schedule. It’s not just about keeping the shower clean; it’s also about maintaining the stone’s condition. Use a stone-safe cleaner to avoid any damage.
- Choosing Products Wisely: When picking cleaning products, go for the best products meant for natural stone. Regular household cleaning products might be too harsh and can dull the stone’s appearance over time.
- Gentle Care: Treat your shower gently. Remember, beautiful natural stone showers need a bit of love to stay that way. Avoid abrasive tools and harsh chemicals.
By sealing your stone shower and following these daily practices, you’ll help prolong its life and keep it looking as stunning as the day it was installed.
Trust me, a little effort goes a long way in preserving the beauty of your natural stone shower.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you’ve got a natural stone shower and facing some issues?
No worries, let’s talk about how to fix common problems like discoloration, etching, or even cracks.
Addressing Common Problems
- Discoloration and Dulling: If your natural stone shower walls start losing their shine or get discolored, it might be due to the wrong cleaning products or just wear and tear. To fix this, try using a cleaner specifically for natural stone. Sometimes, just switching to the best cleaner can bring back that shine.
- Stubborn Stains: For those tough stains that just won’t budge, it might be time to try something stronger. But be careful – always test it on a small, less visible area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the stone.
- Etching and Cracks: These are trickier. Etching can happen from acidic substances, and cracks might be due to physical damage or even temperature changes. For both, it’s often about damage control and then regular maintenance to prevent further issues.
When to Call a Professional
- Water Damage and Major Repairs: If you notice signs of water damage or large cracks, it’s probably time to call in a professional cleaner. They have the right tools and expertise to handle bigger problems without causing more damage.
- Regular Maintenance: Even if you don’t have major issues, having a professional come in once in a while can help keep your shower in top shape. They can spot potential problems early and deal with them effectively.
Remember, while you can handle a lot of the maintenance yourself, don’t hesitate to call a pro when things get too complicated.
It’s all about keeping your natural stone shower looking great for years to come.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Cleaning Options
Want to keep your natural stone shower clean while also being kind to the planet? Here are some sustainable and eco-friendly cleaning options that are easy to make and use.
Natural, Homemade Cleaning Solutions
- White Vinegar and Lemon Juice: These two are like the superheroes of natural cleaning. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water, or use lemon juice for a gentler clean. They’re great for tackling mild soap scum and water spots. Just remember, vinegar can be a bit harsh for some natural stone materials, so do a small patch test first.
- Neutral Cleaners: Look for cleaners labeled as ‘neutral pH’ if you’re buying. These are gentle on stone and better for the environment than harsh chemicals.
Environmentally Friendly Practices
- Use Cleaners Sparingly: It’s not just about what you use, but also how much. Overusing even natural cleaners can sometimes harm your stone surfaces.
- Stone-Safe Cleaning Products: If you’re not into DIY solutions, there are eco-friendly, stone-safe cleaning products available in stores. They’re designed to be effective without the harsh side effects on your stone or the environment.
Remember, going green with your cleaning routine doesn’t mean compromising on cleanliness.
These simple, eco-friendly solutions can keep your natural stone looking pristine while also being mindful of Mother Earth.
FAQs
Can I use vinegar to clean my natural stone tile shower?
No, vinegar is acidic and can etch the surface of natural stone tiles.
How often should I seal my natural stone shower tiles?
It depends on the type of stone and usage, but generally every one to two years.
Can baking soda be used on all types of natural stone tiles?
Baking soda is generally safe but always do a spot test first as it can be abrasive for softer stones.
Is it necessary to dry the shower tiles after each use?
Yes, wiping down the tiles after each use helps prevent water spots and mold growth.
What should I do if a stain doesn’t come out with regular cleaning?
For persistent stains, it’s best to consult a professional cleaner specialized in natural stone.
What is the best way to clean natural stone tile in a shower?
The best way to clean natural stone tile is to use a stone-safe cleaning product or a mild detergent diluted in water.
It’s important to avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the stone. Gently apply the solution with a soft rag and rinse thoroughly.
Can I use regular cleaning products purchased from hardware stores on natural stone tiles?
It’s generally not advisable to use regular cleaning products from hardware stores on natural stone tiles.
These can be too harsh, especially on porous stone types. Look for products specifically labeled as safe for natural stone.
What should I do to clean a porous stone tile shower?
For porous stone, use a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner to avoid damaging the stone.
Excess moisture should be avoided, so make sure to dry the surface thoroughly after cleaning.
Is there a right way to prevent mineral deposits on natural stone tiles?
To prevent mineral deposits, regularly clean your shower with a mild detergent and dry the tiles after use.
Using a squeegee to remove excess water can also help.
If mineral deposits do form, a diluted solution of white vinegar can be effective, but always test it on a small area first.
How do I clean the grout between natural stone tiles?
Use a grout cleaner that’s safe for natural stone.
Apply it directly to the grout lines and use a soft brush to gently scrub.
Avoid using too much water, which can seep into the stone.
Can I use stone soap for cleaning natural stone tiles?
Yes, stone soap is a good option for cleaning natural stone tiles.
It’s formulated to be gentle on the stone while effectively cleaning it.
Just follow the instructions on the label for the best results.
How often should I clean my natural stone shower to keep it in good condition?
Regular cleaning is key.
A weekly clean with a mild detergent or stone soap can keep your natural stone shower in good condition.
For showers used frequently, a quick daily wipe-down can help prevent buildup.
What’s the best way to clean a ceramic tile shower with a natural stone floor?
For a shower with ceramic tiles and a natural stone floor, use a cleaner that is safe for both materials.
Avoid acidic cleaners, especially on the natural stone.
Clean the ceramic tiles as usual, and be gentler on the stone floor, using a stone-safe product.
Are there any specific considerations for cleaning natural stone tiles made from a particular type of limestone?
Different types of limestone have varying levels of porosity and water resistance.
It’s best to use a stone-safe cleaning product and avoid acidic solutions.
Always test any cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Can I use the same cleaning methods for glass shower doors and natural stone tiles?
While some cleaning methods may overlap, glass shower doors can generally tolerate a wider range of cleaning products compared to natural stone tiles.
It’s important to use products that won’t harm the stone when cleaning the doors.
Leave a Reply