Travertine stone, a unique, versatile type of limestone, is one of the most popular choices for interior floors, counter-tops and other surfaces — as well as for adding an extra accent to patio designs outdoors.

However, travertine is also a porous rock, softer and less dense than granite. That means your travertine tiles are susceptible to etching and staining from a variety of substances; and while having your travertine tile installation sealed can help protect against this, you’ll also need to regularly clean your tiles to keep them in top condition.

Luckily, keeping your new tile surface clean and damage-free is easier than you think. And when you correctly keep your home’s tile installation clean, you can preserve its natural beauty for many years to come. Here is a simple, four-step guide to successful travertine cleaning:

Sweep or vacuum debris

It’s important to remove dirt, sand and dust particles from your tile surface about once a week in order to prevent these particles from etching the tiles’ surface. While you can use a broom and dustpan, a vacuum will do a more thorough job — just be sure to use a handheld vacuum, as the wheels of an upright vacuum can scratch the tiles as well.

Wet mop the tile

Once you’ve removed all the debris from your tile, you’ll want to use a soft, wet mop on your tile surface. Avoid using cleaning products that contain harsh chemicals — usually, you can find cleaning products that are specifically formulated for stone in home improvement stores and the stone dealer from which you purchased your tile.

Dry the tile

Using a dry mop or soft towel, wipe up all moisture left behind by the wet mop. It’s best to avoid letting your tiles air dry, as this will create streaks.

If your floor still appears dirty, contact a professional

Don’t see a difference after following the previous three steps? If so, you might want to call a professional floor cleaner to come in and restore or polish your tile installation and bring it back to its original finish.

Have any other questions for us about travertine pavers? Feel free to ask by leaving a comment below this article.