How to Care for Natural Stone Decor

Natural stone is one of the few materials that looks better the longer you live with it. Marble, onyx and travertine are durable, but they are also natural and slightly porous, so they respond to how they are treated. The good news: caring for them takes less than a minute a week.

Why stone needs a gentle touch

Marble, onyx and travertine are calcium-based stones. Acids react with calcium, so anything acidic can leave a dull, matte mark called an etch. Etching is a surface change, not a stain, but it is easier to prevent than to fix.

Common acidic culprits around the house include lemon juice, vinegar, wine, coffee, soda, tomato sauce and many all-purpose or bathroom cleaners.

Everyday cleaning

• Dust with a soft, dry microfiber cloth.
• For a deeper clean, wipe with a soft cloth dampened with warm water. If needed, add a drop of mild, pH-neutral soap.
• Dry the surface right away with a clean cloth so water doesn't sit on the stone.

What to avoid

• Vinegar, lemon, bleach, ammonia and other harsh or acidic cleaners.
• Abrasive sponges, scouring powders and steel wool.
• Leaving spills to sit. Blot them (don't wipe and spread) as soon as you can.

Small habits that make a big difference

• Trays and bowls: if you use a piece like our Conchiglia tray for perfume, skincare or jewelry, wipe off drips of oil or fragrance promptly.
• Fruit and food: citrus and other acidic foods can etch marble. In a stone bowl such as the Alzata pedestal bowl, rinse and dry it after any juice touches the stone.
• Protect your furniture too: stone is heavy and can scratch delicate wood or lacquer. Felt pads under a piece protect both surfaces.
• Lift, don't drag: sliding stone across a table can scratch both the table and the stone's base.

About travertine

Travertine forms with natural pores and small cavities. They are part of its character, not a defect. Dust can collect in them, so a soft brush is helpful from time to time.

Stone lamps

For lamps, switch them off and unplug any charging cable before cleaning. Dust the stone with a dry cloth and never spray liquid directly onto the lamp or its electronics.

Every piece is one of a kind

Veining, color shifts and small natural marks are what make each stone unique. Treated gently, your piece will keep its character for years to come.

Explore our stone objects and stone lighting.