Stone is a gorgeous choice for a kitchen backsplash. It gives an elegant and classy look. However, just like any other backsplash, it can get dirty from spills and splashes. So, if you’re wondering how to clean your stone backsplash, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve found the best method for cleaning your backsplash, so it will be back to its original glory in no time.
Some types of stone can be sensitive to cleaning products, so before you begin, test your cleaning solution in an inconspicuous spot. Use a mild soap to decrease the chance of damaging your stone.
The steps to clean a stone backsplash are:
- Choose a brush
- Make a solution of hot soapy water
- Wash the backsplash
- Rinse with a clean wet rag
Now you know the basic steps to clean your stone backsplash, but keep reading as we elaborate on the tools and steps below! We’ll also answer some other questions you might have about your stone kitchen backsplash.
Cleaning A Stone Backsplash
Let’s go over each step in detail. Fortunately, cleaning a stone backsplash is not too difficult, and you likely already have everything you need on hand.
Things You Will Need:
- Brush
- Dish Soap
- Clean Rag
- Bucket or Sink
Step 1: Choose A Brush
Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush or scrub brush. Stone is not typically a very smooth surface, so the bristles will help clean any small crevices. Using a brush will also help remove any dirt between the tiles and on the grout.
Tip: If you’re still in the process of choosing your backsplash, try to opt for a smoother stone, like granite, so it is easier to clean and will not involve as much scrubbing to remove any grease!
Click here to see Libman Scrub Kit: Three Different Durable Brushes on Amazon.
Step 2: Make A Solution Of Hot Soapy Water
As we mentioned above, stone can be sensitive to some cleaning products. Mild dish detergents are a good choice for cleaning your backsplash. Even with a mild soap, you should still ensure the cleaning solution won’t damage your stone by testing it in a small out-of-sight area.
A backsplash is susceptible to splashes from oils. After all, that’s why it is there. Because of this, you should choose a mild detergent that can break down grease. Dawn dish soap is a good option, but you can try to use any dish soap you might have on hand as they usually serve similar purposes.
Click here to see Dawn Ultra Original Dish Detergent on Amazon.
If you’d rather use a store-bought cleaning product, be sure it is safe to use on the type of stone your backsplash is made from. You can buy cleaners specific to the material your backsplash is made from. For example, there are granite stone cleaners and limestone cleaners.
Click here to see Granite Gold Daily Cleaner Spray on Amazon.
Mix the soap and hot water in your sink or bucket. If your sink is close to your backsplash, the sink will serve the purpose. If you prefer not to risk dripping soapy water everywhere, grab a bucket or small container.
Step 3: Wash The Backsplash
Now it’s time to clean! Submerge the brush into your soapy water and apply generous amounts to your backsplash. Rewet the brush as needed to continue cleaning.
Step 4: Rinse The Backsplash
Once you’ve finished cleaning, make sure to use a clean rag and plain water to rinse off any soap. If you don’t rinse, the backsplash might be left with a film from the soap.
Inspect the backsplash for any spots you might have missed.
How do you remove grease from stone?
If you’ve got some tough grease stains to remove from your stone, and the grease-cutting detergent didn’t do the job, there is another method you can try.
If you haven’t already, begin the process by completing your normal cleaning process to remove any other food splatters. Create a paste using baking soda and a little amount of water. Using a brush, knife, or spatula, apply the paste in a thin layer over the stain.
Leave it to sit for half an hour to an hour until the paste has dried and can be brushed off. You may need to repeat the process until the grease stain is gone.
Once you’ve brushed off as much of the paste as you can, give it one more clean to remove any residual residue.
Click here to see Arm & Hammer Baking Soda on Amazon.
Is natural stone good for a kitchen backsplash?
Natural stone is a good option for a kitchen backsplash if you want something that will elevate your overall design. However, while beautiful, they might not be the right choice if you’re an avid cook.
Natural stone can be harder to clean than other smoother backsplash materials, so if it is likely to see many grease splatters, you should consider a different material. Some kinds of natural stone will spot or stain easily from grease, which can be difficult to remove.
As you can see from our cleaning method, you’ll need a brush to reach into any uneven surfaces, whereas glass backsplashes will only need a wipe with a sponge and much less time to clean.
Natural stone will also need to be sealed regularly. You will need to apply the sealant at least once a year. Stone is also more likely to chip than other materials, and it might not be easy to replace chipped tiles.
Whether natural stone is the right choice for you will depend on aesthetics and how much effort you want to put into maintaining and cleaning the backsplash. Be sure to research the material you’re interested in before you purchase. Find out if the tile is sealed and the type of stone it is made from.
How do you protect a stone backsplash?
Protecting your backsplash can help it last longer and keep it looking new. Fortunately, there a few things you can do to protect and maintain your stone backsplash.
First, try to clean the backsplash regularly. Wiping it down immediately after using the stove will cut down on how often you have to deep clean it. It’ll be easier to clean off fresh grease than grease that’s had time to sit.
Second, you should apply a sealant to it periodically. The sealant will add a layer of protection to your backsplash. It can protect it from food, oil, and grease splashes. Adding sealant will also make it easier to clean, and with stone, you need all the help you can get.
There are lots of different brands of sealant available. Make sure to read the directions on the manufacturer’s package to make sure you can apply it to the type of stone your backsplash is made from.
Click here to see StoneTech BulletProof Sealer on Amazon.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, our article has been helpful to your research on how to clean a stone backsplash. Fortunately, the process is relatively simple and can often be achieved with items people typically have on hand. If you don’t like the idea of having to scrub your backsplash with a brush, consider choosing a different material for your backsplash. There are plenty of options that are easier to clean.