Limestone flooring is a beautiful and durable option for any home, but it requires special care to keep it looking its best. Unlike other flooring materials, limestone is porous and can be easily damaged by acidic products and harsh cleaning methods. This guide will provide you with detailed steps and tips to clean and maintain your limestone flooring effectively.
Understanding Limestone Flooring
What is Limestone? Limestone is a natural stone composed mainly of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). It is a sedimentary rock that forms over millions of years from the accumulation of shells, coral, and other marine debris. Due to its composition, limestone is relatively soft and porous compared to other stones like granite or marble.
Why Avoid Acidic Cleaners? Acidic cleaners, such as vinegar and lemon juice, can break down the calcium carbonate in limestone, causing damage and erosion. This reaction is similar to what happens when you descale a kettle with vinegar – the scale (calcium carbonate) fizzes and dissolves. Using acidic cleaners on limestone can result in dull spots, etching, and permanent damage.
Cleaning Limestone Flooring
1. Sweep and Dust Regularly
Start by removing loose dirt and debris from your limestone floor. Use a soft broom, a dust mop, or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. Regular sweeping prevents dirt from scratching the surface and getting embedded in the pores.
2. Mop with a pH-Neutral Cleaner
When mopping your limestone floor, always use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for natural stone. Floorit is an excellent option as it is gentle yet effective on limestone, marble, granite, laminate, and wood.
Steps for Mopping:
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Dilute the cleaner: Mix the recommended amount of Floorit with water in a mop bucket. For a 5-litre bucket, use 120ml of cleaner.
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Start from the farthest corner: Dip your mop into the solution, wring out excess water, and begin mopping from the corner furthest from the door.
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Rinse and dry: After mopping, rinse the floor with clean water to remove any residue. Dry the floor with a soft cloth or let it air dry. Avoid walking on the floor until it is completely dry.
3. Spot Clean Stains
For stains and spills, act quickly to prevent them from penetrating the porous surface. Gently scrub the stained area with a soft brush and a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and dry the area with a soft cloth.
4. Deep Clean with Caution
For deeper cleaning, especially if your floor has become stained or dirty over time, you can leave a diluted solution of Floorit on the area for about 10 minutes. Then, use a soft cloth to absorb the solution. If this method does not work, consider using a dry steam machine to reach the micropores that liquids cannot.
Maintaining Limestone Flooring
1. Seal the Surface Sealing your limestone floor is crucial to protect it from stains and damage. A good sealant will penetrate the pores and create a protective barrier. Products like Lithofin are excellent for this purpose. Ensure the floor is clean before applying the sealant to avoid sealing in any dirt or stains.
2. Use Mats and Rugs Place mats and rugs at entryways to catch dirt and prevent it from being tracked onto the limestone floor. This reduces the risk of scratches and keeps your floor cleaner for longer.
3. Clean Spills Immediately Promptly clean any spills to prevent them from seeping into the pores and causing stains. Use a kitchen roll to absorb liquids immediately, then clean the area with diluted Floorit.
4. Regular Sweeping and Vacuuming Daily sweeping or vacuuming helps keep your floor free from dirt and debris that can cause scratches and wear. Focus on high-traffic areas like in front of the cooker, sink, and fridge.
5. Frequent Spot Cleaning Identify problem areas and clean them more frequently. Using a spray mop can save time and ensure that these areas remain spotless.
Conclusion
Maintaining the beauty and durability of limestone flooring requires a gentle and consistent cleaning routine. Avoid acidic cleaners that can damage the stone, and instead, use pH-neutral products like Floorit. Regular sweeping, prompt spill cleanup, and periodic sealing will help keep your limestone floors looking pristine. With proper care, your limestone flooring can remain a stunning feature of your home for years to come.
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