Guide

Caring for marble, travertine and onyx furniture

Everyday care

Dust and grit are abrasive, so a quick pass with a soft, dry cloth does most of the work. When the surface needs a wash, use warm water with a pH-neutral stone cleaner or a few drops of mild dish soap. Rinse, then dry with a soft cloth so no water marks are left.

Spills: etch or stain?

Two different marks, two different fixes.

Mark What you see Cause What to do
Etch A dull or lighter spot, rough to the touch on a polished surface An acid: lemon, wine, vinegar, some cleaners It is a change in the surface, not dirt. Send us a photo: a light etch can often be polished out by a stone professional.
Stain A darker or coloured patch Oil, coffee, wine or cosmetics soaked into the stone Blot, don't rub. Send us a photo before trying any product.
Scratch A fine line Grit, ceramic bases, metal objects Dust regularly and use felt pads under objects.

Good to know Damage from unsuitable cleaning products, especially acidic ones, is not covered by our refund policy. When in doubt, use warm water only.

Sealing

A sealer slows down how quickly liquids soak into the stone. It does not make it stain-proof, and it does not stop acids from etching. How often to reseal depends on the stone, the finish and how the piece is used: ask us for the advice that fits your piece.

By stone and finish

  • Polished marble: the colour looks deeper, and etch marks show more.
  • Honed marble: matte, and tends to hide light etching better.
  • Travertine: filled and sealed pores are easier to wipe clean than open ones.
  • Onyx: handle gently. It is sensitive to acids and to scratches.
  • Sintered stone: an engineered surface, dense and low in porosity. It resists stains and heat.

Which finish needs the least care?

Questions

Can I clean marble with vinegar?

No. Vinegar is an acid and dulls marble, travertine and onyx.

What cleaner is safe for marble and travertine?

A pH-neutral stone cleaner or mild dish soap in warm water. Rinse and dry afterwards.

Can I put a hot dish on a stone table?

Use a trivet or a placemat. It protects the finish and any sealer.

How do I remove a water ring from marble?

If it is dull rather than dark, it is probably an etch from what was in the glass. Send us a photo on WhatsApp or by email before trying a product.

Can I use a stone piece in the bathroom or outdoors?

Ask us first. It depends on the stone, the finish and the sealer.

Sources

Pieces to compare

All our stones →