Cleaning stone in Southeastern, PA doesn’t have to be complicated, but doing it the wrong way can cause real damage.
Whether it’s a stone patio, walkway, countertop, or wall, knowing how to clean stone the right way can make a big difference in how it looks and how long it lasts.
If you’re looking for a clear, no-nonsense guide to cleaning stone—and want to avoid common mistakes—you’re in the right place.
And if you ever need a hand, we’re here at Clean My Pavers to help bring your stone surfaces back to life.
Start Here: Know What Kind of Stone You Have
Not all stone is the same.
Some are tough and dense.
Others are soft and absorb water easily.
Knowing what you’re working with helps you choose the safest cleaning method.
Here are some common types of stone:
- Granite – tough, less porous, often used indoors
- Limestone – soft, porous, sensitive to acidic cleaners
- Marble – beautiful but easy to stain or scratch
- Slate – textured, durable, great for outdoor areas
- Travertine – like limestone, but often used around pools or patios
If you’re not sure what kind of stone you have, play it safe with a gentle approach—or reach out to a pro.
How to Clean Stone Surfaces (Step-by-Step)
Let’s get right to it.
Here’s a safe, effective way to clean natural stone without causing damage.
- Step 1: Sweep or rinse off any dirt. Get rid of loose dust, leaves, or sand with a broom or garden hose. This helps avoid scratches during cleaning.
- Step 2: Mix a stone-safe cleaner. Use warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid anything acidic like vinegar or lemon juice. Even dish soap works if it’s gentle.
- Step 3: Scrub carefully. Use a soft mop, sponge, or cloth. Stay away from rough brushes or steel wool, especially on softer stones.
- Step 4: Rinse with clean water. Make sure all the cleaner is washed away. Leftover residue can leave streaks or attract more dirt later.
- Step 5: Dry the surface. Use a towel to dry it by hand or let it air dry. Don’t leave puddles behind—they can lead to water spots or mildew.
Looking for a deeper clean without the risk?
At Clean My Pavers, we use commercial-grade tools and gentle, eco-friendly products designed for all types of stone surfaces.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Stone
It’s just as important to know what not to do.
Here are some common mistakes we see:
- Using vinegar, bleach, or ammonia—these can dull or etch the stone
- Scrubbing with wire brushes or rough pads
- Using high-pressure washers on soft stones like limestone or sandstone
- Skipping sealing—unsealed stone is more likely to stain
If in doubt, stick to gentle cleaners and tools—or give us a call.
How to Remove Stains from Stone
Stains happen.
The good news?
Most of them can be handled with the right technique.
Here’s how to tackle the most common ones:
- Grease and oil stains: Use a stone-safe degreaser or a poultice to pull the oil out of the stone.
- Organic stains (leaves, coffee, food): Try a bit of hydrogen peroxide or a mild bleach solution. Always test a small area first.
- Rust stains: You’ll need a specialty rust remover made for stone. Don’t use regular metal cleaners—they’re usually too harsh.
- Mildew and mold removal: For outdoor areas, you can use a diluted bleach solution—but rinse thoroughly. Indoors, it’s best to use a stone-safe mold remover.
Still stuck?
Our team at Clean My Pavers in Southeastern, PA handles tough stains all the time.
We know how to lift stains without harming the stone.
Should You Seal Your Stone?
If your stone is porous (and many are), sealing it is a smart move.
It helps block water, oil, and grime from soaking in.
Here’s how to tell if your stone needs sealing:
- Water soaks in instead of beading up
- The surface looks dull or uneven
- It’s been more than a year since your last seal
We recommend sealing stone every 1 to 3 years depending on weather, foot traffic, and the type of stone.
Not sure when yours was last sealed?
We can take a look and let you know.
Keep It Looking Good: Simple Stone Maintenance Tips
Once your stone is clean, regular upkeep goes a long way.
Here’s a simple maintenance plan:
- Weekly – Wipe down indoor stone with a soft cloth and a gentle cleaner
- Monthly – Check for new stains, water damage, or wear
- Seasonally – Clear off patio stones or walkways after pollen, snow, or leaf build-up
- Yearly – Deep clean and reseal with help from a professional
If you’d rather not deal with it, Clean My Pavers offers regular maintenance services so you never have to worry about it again.
When It’s Time to Call a Professional
Some issues are just too tough for household cleaners.
Here are signs it’s time to call in the pros:
- A white haze or powdery look (efflorescence)
- Stubborn stains that won’t lift
- Algae or mildew growing on the surface
- Slippery or flaking stone
- Dull patches that won’t shine up, even after cleaning
We’ve got the tools and experience to clean, restore, and protect stone without causing any damage.
Our process is safe, effective, and designed to extend the life of your stone—whether it’s on your patio, driveway, pool deck, or anywhere else.
Contact us to learn more about our stone cleaning services in Southeastern, PA.
Final Thoughts: How To Clean Stone:
Knowing how to clean stone the right way helps protect your investment, boost your curb appeal, and keep your space looking great year-round.
A little care goes a long way—and if things get too tough, we’re always here to help.
At Clean My Pavers, we specialize in cleaning and restoring all types of stone surfaces in Southeastern, PA.
Whether you need a one-time deep clean or regular maintenance, we’re ready when you are.
Want your stone looking like new again?
Request a free quote or call us to schedule your service.
FAQs: How To Clean Stone
What is the best thing to clean stones with?
The best way to clean stone is with a pH-neutral cleaner mixed with warm water. This type of cleaner is gentle, effective, and safe for most natural stones. Avoid harsh or acidic products, which can damage the surface over time.
How can I clean natural stone?
To clean natural stone, start by sweeping away any loose dirt or debris. Mix a pH-neutral stone cleaner with warm water, apply it with a soft cloth or mop, and gently scrub. Rinse well with clean water and dry the surface completely to avoid water spots.
How to remove mold from stone?
Mold on outdoor stone can usually be removed with a diluted bleach solution or a stone-safe mold remover. Apply the solution, scrub gently, then rinse thoroughly. For indoor stone or sensitive materials, it’s best to use a mold remover specifically made for natural stone.
Is it OK to clean stone with vinegar?
No, vinegar is too acidic for most natural stone surfaces. It can cause etching, dullness, and long-term damage. Stick with pH-neutral cleaners to avoid ruining the finish or structure of the stone.
Does baking soda clean stone?
Baking soda can be mildly abrasive and may be used for some spot treatments on tougher stones like granite, but it’s not ideal for routine cleaning. It’s safer to use a cleaner that’s specifically made for natural stone to protect the surface.
How do you get the shine back to natural stone?
To restore shine, clean the stone thoroughly first. Then, depending on the type of stone, you may need to buff it, apply a stone polish, or reseal it. For best results, professional cleaning and polishing—like what we offer at Clean My Pavers—can safely bring back the original shine.