Cleaning travertine tiles is a fairly easy process that does not involve the use of harsh cleaners. However even before we can talk about cleaning we must talk about sealing. Tiles that have not been sealed at the time of installation will be harder to clean, and many things (mostly liquids) will be a source of stains.
Sealing tiles can be done even after installation and should be repeated once a year to ensure you keep your travertine tiles easy to clean. It must be said that some people who choose travertine tiles for their natural appeal do not want to seal them, and that is an alternative, but unsealed tiles mean that you must make a little more effort for cleaning your travertine tiles.
How to seal your tiles :
There are stone sealing products on the market that will help you do that. StoneTech BPSS12-32 BulletProof Stone Sealer for example is an easy to use product that you simply apply on your clean travertine tiles. It does allow the stone to breathe does not alter the look of your tiles but penetrates the stone to prevent oil and other staining liquid from doing much damage. Over time you must reapply the sealer, usually once a year is sufficient.
Another way to protect travertine tiles is to apply a clear wax with a soft cloth. Apply and rub with a clean cloth following the direction of the veins.
Keeping cleaning of travertine tiles simple
You might consider a few tips that will help you keep the cleaning of travertine tiles to a minimum and as simple as possible.
If you have a travertine counter or table top, use coaster to prevent rings, if liquids are spilled clean them right away to prevent staining by infiltration in the porous stone. This is particularly important if the spill is of an acidic nature, (wine, juice or coffee). On bathroom counters you might want to keep toiletries and bottles on a tray to prevent possible damage to your counter top.
When cleaning travertines tiles on the floor or walls you should use a very mild non acidic soap, rinse and dry right away.
Polished floors can be scratched by sand dragged in the house on the bottom of shoes, you can prevent scratches by using door mats.
Removing dirt and dust on your floors regularly will also ensure low abrasion of your tiles.
As already stated acidic products are very bad for travertine, thus you should never use vinegar to clean travertine tiles, and you should also avoid all generic tile cleaners as most contain abrasive substances that can damage your tiles.
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