Common Stone Care Mistakes to Avoid

Natural and engineered stone surfaces are built to last, but even the most durable materials can lose their beauty if they aren’t cared for properly. At Stoneworx®, we often see Toronto homeowners unintentionally make mistakes that shorten the life of their countertops, vanities, and floors. Avoiding these missteps will keep your stone looking stunning for years to come.

Here are the most common stone care mistakes — and how to avoid them.

1. Using Harsh or Acidic Cleaners

One of the biggest mistakes is cleaning stone with products that are too harsh. Vinegar, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners can etch and dull surfaces, especially marble and limestone.

What to do instead: Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner or warm water with a gentle soap designed for stone surfaces.

For more advice, see our blog on Caring for Natural Stone in Toronto’s Climate.

2. Ignoring Spills

Wine, citrus juice, coffee, and oil are all common kitchen spills that can leave permanent marks on unsealed or unprotected stone.

What to do instead: Wipe up spills immediately with a soft cloth, and avoid letting liquids sit on the surface.

3. Placing Hot Pans Directly on Countertops

While granite and quartzite are heat-resistant, placing hot cookware directly on any stone surface can cause cracks, thermal shock, or discoloration.

What to do instead: Always use trivets or hot pads to protect your counters.

For more on choosing durable stone surfaces, explore our blog on Granite vs. Quartz Countertops: How to Choose the Best Fit for Your Toronto Home.

4. Using Stone as a Cutting Board

Stone is durable, but using it as a cutting surface can leave scratches, dull your knives, and damage finishes over time.

What to do instead: Always use a cutting board to protect both your knives and your stone.

5. Neglecting Regular Cleaning

Letting dust, crumbs, and residue build up can make stone appear dull and lead to scratches.

What to do instead: Wipe surfaces daily with a soft cloth and clean regularly with stone-safe products.

6. Choosing the Wrong Finish for Your Lifestyle

Sometimes care issues come down to choosing the wrong finish. A polished marble countertop, for example, requires more maintenance than a honed granite surface.

What to do instead: Match your stone and finish to your lifestyle and willingness to maintain it. Our team can help you choose the best option for your needs.

Final Thoughts

Proper care doesn’t need to be complicated. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll protect your investment and keep your stone surfaces beautiful for decades.

Get in touch with the experts at Stoneworx® today for personalized advice on caring for your stone surfaces.