Cleaning an old stone floor

How do I clean up an old stone floor without removing the patina?

Asked by Abdul on 13th Jan 2023
Expert Trade Answers
"Hot soapy water, no bleach agents and scrub on hands and knees, do not use a mop as it pushes the dirt into the corners. Then we suck up the water with a wet vacc, however you could get up the excess soapy water with a damp cloth and keep squeeding into a bucket."
Answered on 17th Feb 2023 - Member since Apr 2022 - report
"1. Sweep or Vacuum: Start by removing loose dirt, dust, and debris from the stone floor using a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. This prevents scratching during the cleaning process.
2. Choose a pH-Neutral Cleaner: Select a pH-neutral stone cleaner or a mild detergent. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the stone’s surface and patina.
3. Dilute the Cleaner: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to dilute the cleaner in a bucket of water. Make sure it’s not too concentrated.
4. Test in a Small Area: Before proceeding, test the diluted cleaner in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t adversely affect the stone or its patina.
5. Mop Gently: Using a soft mop or a well-wrung, damp cloth, mop the stone floor with the diluted cleaner. Work in small sections to avoid the solution from sitting on the stone for too long.
6. Scrub as Needed: For stubborn spots or stains, use a soft-bristle brush or a soft scrubbing pad. Apply gentle pressure and scrub in a circular motion.
7. Rinse Thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the floor with clean water to remove any residue. Make sure to change the water in your bucket as needed to prevent spreading dirt."
Answered on 18th Sep 2023 - Member since Nov 2022 - report
"Use a minimum amount of water. You should not soak it. Buy a specialist product or use soda crystals."
Answered on 7th Feb 2024 - Member since Feb 2024 - report
"Depending on the state of the stone(old=changes in layers):
1. Vacuum with a soft end brush/brush with a soft brush through all corners
2. Have a warm water and soak a clean microfibre cloth in the warm water
3. Squeeze the miicrofiber cloth to make it DAMP
4. Damp wipe the stone surface area by folding the cloth into 4-section
5. Maintain a uniform strokes over the stone area either across or along gently
6 In a bigger area , you can apply the same procedure by using a hand steamer over the surface area
7. Leave the stone area to dry natural ventilation and this will be quicker as the moisture content is warm"
Answered on 8th Apr 2024 - Member since Apr 2024 - report
"Hot water with a light soap, apply in small areas and scrub with a non scratch sponge ( for example a scrub daddy).

Move to each area on the floor and finish off with a warm water mop."
Answered on 18th Mar 2023 - Member since Feb 2023 - report
"Hot soppy water in a mop and bucket ,
then go over again with fresh hot or warm water ."
Answered on 13th Jan 2023 - Member since Apr 2019 - report
"Oh, I love old stone floors! To clean them without removing the patina, you can try a gentle solution of warm water and mild soap. Use a soft brush or mop to avoid scratching the surface. Just be careful not to use anything too abrasive or harsh. Good luck! 😊🧽"
Answered on 9th Apr 2024 - Member since Mar 2024 - report
"I would test a small area first to ensure the solution doesn’t damage or discolor the stone as some stones are more delicate. Also acidic or abrasive solution can damage stone easily."
Answered on 13th Apr 2023 - Member since Mar 2023 - report
"Avoid over-cleaning it as this will destroy the patina of age which gives the floor its character. If necessary, work gently using a non-acidic cleaner, such as washing soda, a soft scrubbing brush or mop and clean water, but never soak the floor."
Answered on 13th Jan 2023 - Member since Apr 2018 - report
"sweep with soft brush when dry. Use warm water mix with all purpose cleaner and mop, change water regularly."
Answered on 2nd Apr 2024 - Member since Mar 2024 - report
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