Stone & Ceramic Care

Natural stone

Stone is one of today’s most beautiful, contemporary and hard-wearing materials. Because it’s natural, colour and texture will vary from piece to piece - that’s part of its charm.

Stone is also surprisingly porous and can soak up spills like a sponge. With the right care, it will develop a gentle patina without unnecessary damage.

Sealing
Whether your stone is honed or polished, it should be sealed with a quality, purpose-made sealant before use. This is best done by a professional and repeated every few years. When water stops beading on the surface, it’s time to reseal. Sealing protects, but regular care is still essential.

Everyday care

Wipe daily with a clean microfibre cloth and clean water.
Avoid regular household cleaners - many are too harsh and can “burn” the surface. Choose pH-neutral stone cleaners only.
Always use coasters under drinks.
Don’t allow water to pool; it can cause discolouration.
Wipe spills immediately, especially anything that could stain or etch: red wine, beetroot, curry spices, coffee, soft drink, vinegar and citrus.
For oil-based spills: blot with paper towel, then cover with a light layer of cornflour to draw out remaining oil before gently wiping away.
For stains: use stone-specific spot cleaners. For polished stone, you can spot-treat with stone polishing cream on a soft cloth.

Good to know

Small hairline cracks and natural markings are normal features, not defects.
If in doubt, contact a professional stone restoration service for tailored advice.

Ceramic (including porcelain/ceramic stone-look surfaces)

Ceramic and porcelain surfaces are non-porous, stain-resistant and low-maintenance — perfect for busy homes. They don’t require sealing, but they’re not indestructible. Hard knocks can chip edges, and sudden temperature shock can stress the material.

Everyday care

Wipe with warm water and a pH-neutral, non-abrasive cleaner; dry with a soft cloth to avoid streaks.
Use microfibre cloths or a soft sponge. Avoid scourers, steel wool and abrasive powders.
Use heat-protective mats or trivets for hot items, never cut or use sharp objects directly on the surface, and always use coasters, placemats or a tablecloth.
Clean spills promptly to prevent surface marks from dyes, inks or strong colours.

Stubborn marks (ceramic)

For metal marks from cookware or cutlery, use a non-abrasive cream cleaner or a ceramic cooktop cleaner. Test in an inconspicuous spot first.
For adhesive or sticky residue, a small amount of eucalyptus oil or isopropyl alcohol on a soft cloth can help; wipe clean with water afterwards.

Avoid on ceramic

No bleach, ammonia, highly alkaline or acidic cleaners.
No waxes, polishes or sealers - they can leave a film.
Don’t place extremely hot items straight from the oven onto a cold surface (and vice versa) — avoid thermal shock.

General do’s and don’ts (all surfaces)

Use coasters, placemats, chopping boards and heat mats.
Clean with pH-neutral products and soft cloths.
Address spills straight away.

Don’t

Use abrasive pads, powders or caustic/acidic cleaners.
Drag heavy or rough items across the surface.
Ignore changes - if something looks etched, stained or damaged, seek professional advice.