Skip to main content

How to clean travertine tile: Step-by-step process to improve your stone flooring

Grimy-looking travertine tile? Here's how to clean this natural stone

Tiled floor with simple furniture and decor
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Your travertine floor tile is a striking addition to your modern kitchen. The material may be timeless and durable, but that doesn't mean you can neglect it. Caring for your travertine tile should be done on a fairly regular schedule and includes a few different levels and steps. We'll walk you through the process.

Recommended Videos

Difficulty

Moderate

What You Need

  • Broom or vacuum cleaner

  • Mop and bucket

  • Towels

  • Toothbrush

  • Mild dish soap

  • Baking soda

  • Natural stone cleaner

Tiled floor with simple furniture and decor
Image used with permission by copyright holder

How often should you clean travertine tile?

The problem with neglecting this type of tiling is that dirt and other debris — when left on the floor — get stepped on and pushed around. This causes tiny scratches on the sealed surface of the travertine material, which eventually leads to the material dulling or losing its luster.

It's recommended you sweep and mop as needed when the surface has visible debris present. Otherwise, you should also disinfect the floors on a monthly basis, and scrub the grout lines once every few months.

Modern bathroom floor tiles and cabinet
New Africa / Shutterstock

How to clean your travertine tile

Step 1: Vacuum or sweep the floor to rid it of any loose debris or small dirt particles.

Step 2: Use a wet mop to dampen the surface of the tiles. Make sure the mop isn't dripping wet but nearly completely wrung out, as the tiles should not be soaked too heavily or mold could grow under the grout.

Step 3: Grab a gallon-sized bucket of water and add a tablespoon of mild dish soap to it.

Step 4: Soak your mop in the mixture and wring it out well before moping the entire surface.

Step 5: Dump out the bucket and refill it with the same mixture before mopping a second time.

Step 6: Towel-dry the surface of the travertine tile floor before walking on it.

Stone design vinyl floor tiles
Image used with permission by copyright holder

How to clean travertine tile grout lines

Those grout lines often become black with dirt. They can be hard to clean, though, since the dirt sticks to the grout material so heavily. Here's how to get that grout looking fresh without damaging your travertine tiles.

Step 1: Grab a large bowl and mix one part water and one part baking soda.

Step 2: Mix up the ingredients until they form a paste that's gritty.

Step 3: Using a small brush — like a toothbrush — scrub the grout lines with the paste. Do this carefully so the abrasive paste and brush don't damage the tiling.

Mopping the floor
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Is there a specific travertine tile cleaner?

Travertine is a natural stone, so any stone tile cleaner recommended for granite, slate, or ceramic tiles will work well at cleaning tough grime or grout lines on your travertine tile. Be sure to read the label of any product before using it, and it's a good idea to test the cleaner on an unassuming spot of your floor to ensure there are no adverse effects.

Your travertine tile flooring creates a modern, clean look in your home, so you don't want it to be an eyesore. Debris, dirt, and grimy grout can sure put a damper on a clean-feeling kitchen or bathroom, so use this guide to keep your travertine floor tile sparkling like new.

Veronica Sparks
Veronica Sparks is a writer from Milwaukee, Wisconsin who loves writing about gardening, home décor, and DIY life. She’s…
This is how to deep clean your air fryer the right way
Don't neglect your favorite kitchen appliance
Potatoes and rosemary in an air fryer

Air fryers are a beloved kitchen appliance for many households. They allow you to fry foods faster and in a healthier manner than traditional deep-frying could ever dream of. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food to provide an even bake without adding any extra calories from fats and oils.

But what happens when dinner is done? If you’re wondering how to clean air fryer appliances now that you have one, this quick guide will show you the best methods for cleaning and protecting your equipment.
What you’ll need

Read more
How to get paint out of carpet: A complete guide
Accidents happen, and your carpet isn't done for yet
Man and woman in jeans holding hands with paint rollers

Accidents happen, and when they do, it’s not uncommon for paint to find its way onto your carpet. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional painter, knowing how to get paint out of carpet can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration. While it might seem like an impossible task, with the right approach, you can effectively remove paint from your carpet and restore its original appearance.
Is paint easy to get out of carpet?

The answer to this question largely depends on the type of paint involved. Some paints are water-based types, making them easier to remove, while others, like oil-based paints, can be more stubborn. Understanding the type of paint on your carpet is the first step in determining the best removal method.
Water-based paint
Water-based paints, including acrylic and latex paints, are the easiest to remove from carpet. Since these paints are soluble in water, they can be lifted out of the carpet with simple household items like dish soap and water. If addressed quickly, water-based paint spills can be cleaned up without leaving any residue behind. However, once dried, latex paint becomes more difficult to remove and may require using a stronger cleaner or a dedicated paint remover.
Oil-based paint
Oil-based paints are trickier to remove from carpet because they aren't a water-soluble type. These paints require a stronger solvent, like rubbing alcohol or acetone, to break down the paint molecules. Because oil-based paints are more adhesive, they tend to bond more firmly to carpet fibers, making prompt action essential to prevent permanent staining.
What is the best thing to remove paint from carpet?

Read more
How to clean stainless steel pans: A step-by-step guide
Keep your favorite cookware looking and performing like new
Stainless steel pan next to citrus fruit

If you've ever wondered how to clean stainless steel pans, you're not alone. These kitchen workhorses are beloved by many cooking enthusiasts, but keeping them in pristine condition requires a bit of know-how. This is especially true when dealing with stubborn food residue or stains. That's why we're going to walk you through the best practices for cleaning and maintaining your stainless steel cookware, ensuring it remains as shiny and effective as the day you bought it.
A good friend to any home chef

Stainless steel pans have earned their place in kitchens worldwide, and for good reason. These pans are incredibly versatile, capable of handling high heat for searing meats and also simmering delicate sauces with equal finesse.

Read more