Simple cleaning and maintenance tips for marble, travertine, onyx, limestone, sandstone, granite, and other natural stone pieces — from tables and furniture to sinks, bathtubs, and decor.
Natural stone is meant to be lived with and enjoyed. Marble, travertine, onyx, limestone, sandstone, and granite each have their own texture, veining, and character. With a few simple habits — gentle cleaning, quick spill removal, and mindful daily use — each piece can stay beautiful for years to come.
At OIXDESIGN, we celebrate the individuality of natural stone. Variations in tone, veining, pores, and mineral markings are part of each piece’s beauty, not flaws. This guide covers the basics of caring for stone tables, sinks, bathtubs, decor, and custom pieces.
It begins with a few universal care principles that apply across most natural stone materials and product types.
Natural Stone Tables & Furniture
Stone dining tables, coffee tables, side tables, console tables, and other furniture pieces benefit from simple everyday care. Wipe dust regularly with a soft dry cloth, and clean spills promptly to help prevent staining or residue buildup. Use coasters and placemats when needed, especially for wine, coffee, tea, citrus drinks, and oily foods. Avoid placing very hot cookware directly on the surface, and do not drag heavy or rough objects across the stone.
Stone Sinks & Basins
Stone vessel sinks, integrated basins, pedestal sinks, and wall-mounted sinks should be rinsed and wiped dry after regular use whenever possible. This helps reduce soap residue, toothpaste marks, and mineral buildup from water. Use gentle stone-safe cleaners only, and avoid harsh bathroom chemicals or descaling products. Regular light maintenance keeps the surface looking refined while preserving the natural texture and finish of the stone.
Stone Bathtubs
Natural stone bathtubs should be rinsed after bathing and dried with a soft cloth to reduce water spots and surface residue. Avoid using strong acidic or alkaline bathroom cleaners, bleach-based products, or abrasive brushes. In residential, hospitality, or high-use environments, regular inspection and periodic professional care may help maintain the finish over time. Gentle cleaning and simple after-use habits go a long way in preserving the quiet luxury of natural stone.
Stone Decor & Lamps
Smaller natural stone pieces such as lamps, candle holders, trays, vases, and decorative accents can usually be maintained with simple dusting and occasional gentle wiping. Use a soft dry cloth for regular care, and avoid prolonged moisture or strong household chemicals. Because these smaller pieces often highlight the raw beauty of the material, natural variations in veining, translucency, pores, and tone are part of their character.
Un entretien approprié est essentiel pour préserver l'élégance et la durabilité de vos tables en marbre naturel et en travertin. Ces pierres poreuses peuvent se tacher, mais un nettoyage et un entretien réguliers leur permettent de rester impeccables. De plus, en prenant soin de vos tables, vous prolongez leur durée de vie et rentabilisez pleinement votre investissement dans un mobilier luxueux et écologique.
Marble Care
Marble is timeless and elegant, with distinctive veining and a refined surface character. Because marble can be sensitive to acidic substances, spills such as wine, citrus juice, coffee, and vinegar should be wiped away promptly. For regular care, use a soft cloth with warm water or a mild pH-neutral soap, then dry the surface after cleaning. Avoid abrasive tools and harsh chemicals that may dull or damage the finish.
Travertine Care
Travertine is loved for its soft, organic texture and warm natural tone. As a naturally porous stone, it benefits from prompt cleaning and mindful daily use. Keep surfaces clean and dry, especially after spills or prolonged moisture exposure. Gentle stone-safe cleaning products are recommended, while acidic liquids and strong chemicals should be avoided. With simple care, travertine ages beautifully and develops lasting character.
Onyx Care
Onyx is admired for its unique translucency, layered patterning, and decorative beauty. Compared with some other natural stones, it benefits from especially gentle handling and light daily care. Use a soft dry or slightly damp cloth, and avoid abrasive scrubbing or strong chemical cleaners. Onyx pieces are often chosen for statement lighting, basins, and decorative applications, so preserving their finish with careful maintenance is especially important.
Limestone Care
Limestone has a quiet, understated beauty with a soft natural character that works beautifully in architectural interiors and bath environments. It should be cleaned gently with a soft cloth and mild soap, then dried after use when possible. Avoid acidic products, strong bathroom cleaners, and rough scrubbing tools. Regular light care helps maintain the surface while preserving the calm, natural texture that makes limestone so appealing.
Sandstone Care
Sandstone offers a grounded, earthy beauty with rich natural texture. It benefits from gentle cleaning and protection from harsh chemicals or long periods of standing moisture. Use a soft cloth, warm water, and mild soap for routine care, and dry the surface after cleaning. With thoughtful maintenance, sandstone remains a warm and character-rich material for both interior and selected project applications.
Granite Care
Granite is generally more durable and resilient than many softer natural stones, making it a practical choice for a range of applications. Even so, regular gentle cleaning is still recommended. Use mild soap and water, avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive tools, and wipe up spills in a timely manner. Depending on the finish and how the piece is used, periodic sealing may also help support long-term performance.
To help preserve the beauty and performance of natural stone, avoid the following:
Sealing & Long-Term Maintenance
Many natural stone pieces benefit from proper surface protection, and some may require periodic resealing over time depending on the material, finish, environment, and frequency of use. Dining tables, coffee tables, sinks, bathtubs, and hospitality applications may all age differently. Good daily habits — gentle cleaning, quick spill removal, and avoiding harsh chemicals — remain the most important foundation. If you are ever unsure about long-term care for a specific piece, the best approach is to ask for stone-appropriate guidance based on the material and application.
A: No. Vinegar and other acidic cleaners can damage or dull many natural stone surfaces. A mild pH-neutral soap and soft cloth are safer choices.
A: Use a soft cloth to remove dust and wipe spills promptly. For deeper cleaning, use warm water and a mild stone-safe soap, then dry the surface.
A: Rinse and wipe it dry after regular use whenever possible. Avoid harsh bathroom chemicals, and clean gently to reduce soap residue and water marks.
A: Rinse after bathing, wipe dry with a soft cloth, and avoid strong cleaners or abrasive brushes. Gentle maintenance helps preserve the finish.
A: Some do, and maintenance needs can vary depending on the material, finish, and how the piece is used. Periodic resealing may be beneficial over time.
A: Yes. Natural stone is prized for its individuality. Veining, tonal variation, pores, and mineral markings are part of its natural beauty.
A: Some pieces may be suitable for covered outdoor use, but long-term exposure to rain, freeze-thaw conditions, or harsh weather should be considered carefully.
A: Wipe it up as soon as possible using a soft cloth. Quick response is especially important for acidic liquids, oils, and strongly colored substances.
A: In general, yes. Onyx is often used for more decorative applications and benefits from especially gentle care, while granite is typically more resilient.
A: Soft cloths, warm water, and mild pH-neutral stone-safe cleaners are usually the safest option for routine maintenance.
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