Stone is a natural product and simple care and maintenance will keep it looking beautiful. Here are some recommendations for routine care and cleaning:

General recommendations:

• Spills should be wiped up as soon as possible impregnating sealers work by repelling liquids rather than blocking the pores of the stone. The reason is so that air can still move through the pores allowing the material to ‘breathe’ naturally. It is the best technology available to protect against staining while preserving the look and natural integrity of your surface. Because the pores of your stone countertop remain open, the surface is not immune from staining, but the sealer will give you plenty of time to clean up liquids before they absorb into the pores and stain. Using coasters for drinks is also recommended.
• Please note: Impregnating sealers will NOT prevent surface etching. It is important to find out if your countertop is made from marble, limestone, onyx, travertine, or other acid sensitive materials. If so, it is important to wipe up spills from acidic substances (including citrus juice, vinegar, cola and wine) immediately, before acid etching occurs. Impregnating sealers repel water and oil but DO NOT repel solvent based liquids, e.g. solvent based inks.
• DO NOT leave wet trays, cutting boards, bowls, vases, and similar things on your surface. For example, the water underneath a wet plastic tray will evaporate very slowly, and if left for days or weeks might stain the surface.

Do’s:

• Do dust the surface frequently, using a clean rag.
• Do clean surface with mild detergent or stone soap, although too much cleanser will leave a film or cause streaks.
• Do thoroughly rinse and dry the surface after washing.
• Do blot up spills immediately

Do Not’s:

• Don’t use vinegar, lemon juice or other cleaners containing acids.
• Don’t use cleaners that contain acid such a bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tub and tile cleaners.
• Don’t use abrasive cleaners.
• Don’t mix bleach and ammonia; this combination creates a toxic and lethal gas.

Sealers:

• Sealers are designed to prevent staining of natural stone. Staining occurs when liquids or other substances are absorbed through the natural pores of stone.
• A sealer will not make your stone stain proof. It won’t prevent scratching or etching. A sealer will, however, help prevent possible stains from being absorbed by the stone.
• There are many sealing products available to the customer. Cameo Countertops has chosen DryTreat ®- Stain Proof as our sealer of choice, as it provides the consumer with 15 years of protection and does not require yearly application.