Travertine tiles are known for their beauty, durability, and timeless appeal. However, the biggest problem with these tiles is keeping them clean. They have tiny holes and spaces within the stone. These gaps can absorb liquids and dirt. It makes them prone to staining and damage. Regular issues like spills, foot traffic, and exposure to dirt and grime can be difficult to clean. You need to follow the right method so that they don’t get damaged. Regular cleaning without acidic cleaners is the best way to keep your travertine tiles shiny and clean.
Table of Contents
Cleaning Tools You Will Need
You won’t need many special tools to clean these natural stone-made tiles. Have them ready before starting for a smooth cleaning experience. You should keep them all in a specific location for regular travertine tile maintenance.
- Vacuum cleaner or broom
- Mop bucket, mop, soft cloth or sponge
- Grout brush
- Mild soap or non-acidic dish soap
- Warm water
- Baking soda
- Stone sealer
- You can also use stone cleaner, but make sure it’s not acidic and pH-neutral cleaner.
How to Clean Travertine Tile the Right Way
You should avoid using harsh chemicals during travertine floor care. Follow these natural stone cleaning tips to get the best result for cleaning results.
Vacuum or Sweep the Floor First
Don’t use water directly on the floor. Instead, start with vacuuming or sweeping the floor for daily travertine care. Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment designed for hard floors. This prevents scratches. If you prefer, you can sweep with a soft-bristle broom, too. It’s a much safer approach but make sure to cover all areas.
Mop the Floor
For the next step, mop the floor. Use warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner. This prevents damage to the tiles. Dip the mop in the solution, then wring it out well. Warm water helps to effectively lift dirt and grime without causing damage to the stone. However, make sure the water is not too hot. Excessively hot water can cause them to expand or contract abruptly. This can lead to cracks or other forms of damage. Remember that travertine is softer than marble and limestone. Therefore, you should not use harsh or acidic chemicals.
Gently mop the floor and ensure even coverage. Avoid soaking the tiles, as excess water can seep into the stone and cause stains. It can also promote mould and mildew growth. After mopping, dry the floor with a clean towel. You can use the same steps for cleaning the travertine shower or travertine countertop care.
Focus on Specific Stains
Dirt and grime can be cleaned by mopping. However, specific stains like oils or spills may remain. For oil stains, sprinkle baking soda on the spot. Let it sit for a while, then wipe away. Are there any wine, coffee, or juice spills? You had better try to blot the spill immediately with a clean cloth. It can be difficult to remove them once they dry. Avoid rubbing the tile as it can spread the stain. Safe cleaners for travertine should be used to gently clean the area.
Avoid vinegar and other acidic cleaners. These cleaners are not safe for travertine tiles. Instead, you need to use eco-friendly travertine cleaning products that are pH-neutral. Read the product description carefully before applying on the tiles.
If stains persist, apply a poultice made from baking soda and water. Spread it over the stain, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it sit for 24 hours. Wipe it off and rinse with warm water. Finally, use travertine tile polish for a shiny look. For stubborn stains, you had better call professional cleaners.
Use Baking Soda for the Grout Lines
Pay attention to the grout lines. Baking soda is effective for travertine grout cleaning. Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the grout using a toothbrush or sponge. Use a grout brush to scrub gently to lift dirt and stains. Avoid harsh scrubbing tools that can scratch the grout. Regular stain removal and maintenance of grout lines with baking soda keep your travertine floor looking clean and fresh.
Use Non-Acidic Cleaner for Disinfection
Since travertine has tiny pores, it can absorb water. The damp surface is suitable for mould and bacteria growth. You need to disinfect the floor to maintain a clean and healthy environment. Spray non-acidic cleaners on the tile and let it be there for a few minutes. Wipe with a soft cloth or mop. Rinse with warm water to remove any residue. You must not use vinegar or bleach for disinfecting.
Try Sealing Your Travertine Floors
Consider sealing travertine tiles to protect them from stains and water damage. The sealant forms a protective barrier on the surface. It helps prevent the absorption of spills and dirt. You may need to reapply the sealant every 1-3 years. Follow these tips to apply sealing:
- Remove furniture or any other items from the tiles.
- Clean the tiles thoroughly to remove dirt and residues
- Ensure the floor is completely dry before starting
- Choose a high-quality, penetrating sealer suitable for travertine
- Apply the sealer evenly with a clean cloth, sponge, or applicator
- Wipe off any excess sealer after the recommended dwell time
- Let the floor dry completely before walking on it or placing furniture
Take Help from a Professional Help
You can think of hiring professional cleaners. Travertine tiles are difficult to clean and require careful cleaning. House owners are often busy and you may not have enough time to clean them. Besides, you may make mistakes and do harm to the tiles. Cleaning companies have expert cleaners. They know how to handle different travertine floors, countertops, or showers. Different stains demand different methods of cleaning. Cleaners know what they have to do to restore the shininess of your tiles. You won’t have to worry about that.
How Often to Clean Travertine Floor Tiles?
Travertine floors need more frequent cleaning than other tiles. Perform immediate spot cleaning for spills to prevent stains. Mop with warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner every 1-2 weeks. It will help maintain the shininess of the tiles. Try cleaning the floor whenever it appears dirty. Regular sweeping or vacuuming keeps the floor free of dirt. It prevents them from setting on the tiles and reduces the chances of stains.
How to Keep Your Travertine Floors Clean?
Dirt and grime affect the appearance and durability of your floor. The environment also gets affected and becomes unhealthy. You can save the tiles from being dirty frequently by taking the following steps:
- Place mats or rugs at entryways to trap dirt and grit.
- Use furniture pads to prevent scratches and dents.
- Wipe up spills promptly to prevent stains.
- Avoid using acidic or harsh cleaners.
- Regularly seal travertine tiles to protect against moisture and stains.
- Use coasters under bottles and glasses to protect travertine tiles from spills and condensation.
- Trim your pets’ nails regularly to minimize scratching.
Final Words
Travertine tiles require specific care. You should do regular cleaning and must avoid acidic cleaners. To deal with stubborn stains, you can call professional cleaners. Affordable Cleaning and Gardening Services is your reliable option for travertine cleaning in Parramatta. We have expert cleaners who are trained to clean and handle travertine and other types of tiles. Our cleaning methods and products are safe for both the tiles and the environment.
