Luxurious finishes in your home require special care to keep them looking like new. Cleaning and maintaining high-end finishes like granite, marble, and glass should never be neglected. This is not only unsightly but can lower property values. In this guide, we feature some luxury finishes and advise how to maintain them.
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Marble
Marble is a beautiful material that adds glamor when used on countertops, stairways, and floors. As it is a porous material, it can stain and take in moisture if you leave glasses or containers with liquids on marble. Always use coasters or trays if you place drinks on marble countertops. Avoid spilling any liquids on marble floors. Spills should be wiped up immediately. Debris like broken glass must also be removed to avoid scratching the finish. Be careful with spills on marble, as any resulting stains may require a professional to remove them.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Sweep marble floors often and sweep before mopping. Use an angled broom with nylon bristles or a vacuum cleaner with a soft bristle attachment. Follow with a microfiber mop, mopping in an S-like motion and wringing the mop. Dry the marble floor or surface with a clean microfiber or cotton cloth. Once dry, use a marble floor polishing kit for added sheen.
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Glass
Glass is a classic material and can look luxurious when used as a wall or tiles. Sleek, modern, and versatile, glass is easy to clean, resists most stains, and keeps bacteria away. Be mindful to avoid scratching it or allowing anything to sit on the glass, as doing so can leave a mark or etch that may be impossible to remove.
Cleaning & Maintenance
The best and easiest product to use to clean glass is pure white vinegar. You can add some water and lemon juice to tone down the vinegar smell. Use a spray bottle to apply the vinegar and let it sit for a while to eat away soap scum and mineral deposits. After a few minutes, scrub dry with a soft cotton or microfiber cloth. Never use any abrasive cleaners since these will only scratch the material.
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Granite
Similar to marble, granite can be used for countertops, steps, shower walls, or floors. Granite comes in many attractive designs and colors and is known for its durability. When sealed properly, granite is heat, stain, and scratch-resistant—which is why it’s commonly used in kitchen areas. Granite may be resistant to certain types of damage, but it can’t take acidic products like vinegar and lemon juice.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Use a pH-neutral cleaner like castile soap or dishwashing liquid to clean granite. You can also try this DIY cleaner: mix 3 cups water, ¼ cup rubbing alcohol, a squirt of dishwashing liquid, and a few drops of your essential oil like peppermint or chamomile. Spray on your cleaning liquid of choice, then wipe off with a clean, non-abrasive cloth.
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Hardwood Floors
If your home has a luxury hardwood floor like oak, maple, and mahogany, it’s essential to keep them free of dust and moisture. While most hardwood floors are varnished when installed, it is still necessary to wipe up any spilled liquids to avoid them getting in between joints and floor planks—these can lead to moisture damage.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Sweep hardwood floors with a soft-bristled broom or vacuum with a soft-bristle attachment. Next, mop the floor with a slightly damp microfiber mop. Finish with a dry mop to absorb excess moisture.
These are a sample of common high-end home finishes you may have or want to install. Be sure to take proper care of them so that your home retains its luxurious look and vibe.