How to Clean Special Surfaces

Tile, Laminate and Ceramic are very easy surfaces to clean. Most of the time you can use an all-purpose cleaner with some water and it works just great! However, if you have any non-standard surfaces in your home, you may be left wondering, "How do I clean this?" We have created a list with the Do's and Don'ts of cleaning specialized surfaces in your home. If there is something you are wondering about cleaning that is not on this list, leave us a comment below so we can add it to the list!

Granite: Do NOT use any cleaners containing high acidic materials such as: ammonia, vinegar or lemon. This could strip the surface. Instead use a mild cleaner such as baking soda, dish soap, or a commercial spray that says specifically that it is safe for granite. Make sure to dry surface so they do not streak.

Stainless Steel: Do NOT use any harsh scrubbing materials such as steel wool. You can clean off any dirt and grime with a mild cleaner such as dish soap. You can polish stainless steel with things such as: glass cleaner or lemon oil but for best results use stainless steel cleaner. If you use a damp rag going with the grain and go back over with a dry rag that will clean it as well.

Hardwood: It is important to note whether or not the hardwood floor is sealed or unsealed. You may use a steamer if it is sealed, but if it is not a steamer would damage the floor. Cleaners like vinegar and/or baking soda can wear off the finish after time. Do NOT use furniture polish on your wood floors. Do NOT use harsh cleaners such as bleach or ammonia. Dilute a wood-floor safe cleaner (such as BONA or Murphy’s Oil) with water and mop without your shoes on going with the grain. Rinse floor with a clean, damp mop.

Marble: It is best to use gentle cleaners and very light scrubbing with marble. The safest bet is to dilute dish soap in warm water and clean in gentle circular strokes. Dry after cleaning to prevent streaks. Never use vinegar to clean marble.

Travertine: Do NOT use any harsh chemicals with travertine tile. You may clean using warm water. If needed, you may use a diluted stone cleaner that does not contain any abrasive chemicals.

Limestone: Do NOT use generic all-purpose cleaners, vinegar, bleach or ammonia. You may use warm water or a natural specialized cleaning agent designed specifically for limestone.

Copper: The best way to clean a copper sink is with a very damp rag using mild soap and water. Do NOT use acidic cleaners. Polish with wax regularly to keep it looking shiny.

Glass: Vinegar is a great cleaner for glass. You may also use dryer sheets for anything that requires scrubbing to get off. You may also use baking soda, dish soap or glass cleaner. Make sure to rinse with water and dry thoroughly. The squeegee method is the best way to avoid leaving any streaks.