Is it OK to Clean Natural Stone with Vinegar in Canyon Gate, NV; What Surfaces Should You Not Use it On?

Homemade cleaning solutions featuring vinegar have become very popular due to their natural appeal. Even though a significant amount of the white vinegar found on supermarket shelves these days is synthetic, it is safer to use as an effective household cleaner in the sense that it isn’t harmful as other substances such as butoxyethanol, indicating it’s a carboxylic acid produced by a chemical process that happens to be very similar to the biological process. Since synthetic vinegar can be safely consumed, it makes perfect sense to use it as a healthy household cleaner. We at Silver State Floor Restoration would like to stress why vinegar should never come into contact with natural stone tile and grout and today.

What Surfaces Should You Not Use Vinegar On?

Marble, granite, and all other types of natural stone are formed by chemical reactions that are part of geological processes. The blocks of natural stone are extracted from quarries for the purpose of cutting, finishing, and installing. The last thing you need is the vinegar to be the catalyst of this reaction since they are simply waiting for the next chemical process to happen. Depending on the type of vinegar and the condition of your stone, the reaction could range from spotting and dulling to etching and staining that requires refinishing.

Can I Use Vinegar on Natural Stone?

All substances can be basic or acidic, depending on their molecular composition. The acidity of a substance is measured against the pH scale from 1 to 14. The lower numbers represent high acidity and a higher alkaline concentration that can cause burns. The juice, wine, and vinegar all have pH levels that range between 2.5 and 7, which makes them acidic. This is more likely to cause a chemical reaction that may start with stripping off sealant, staining the surface of the stone, and etching through the pores, as a result.

How Do You Get Stains Out of Natural Stone?

Bound to occur in the kitchen are grape juice, vinegar, and wine spills. Because the protective seal wasn’t adequate, you can make a paste of baking soda and acetone to cover the affected area, then leave it in place for 24 hours and rinse with water should the stain begins to form. Once you rinse off the paste and wipe the floor or counter surface, you should make it a point to apply granite sealer as well.

How Do You Keep Natural Stone Clean?

Instead of vinegar or common household cleaners, you should only use a granite cleaner that has been specifically formulated to clean natural stone. In the event your stone counters in the kitchen are subject to heavy food prep volumes, be certain to apply sealant frequently. From substances other than vinegar, natural stone can be stained or damaged. Since virtually all food products can cause damage, though a strong seal can prevent it.