Travertine is a type of natural stone that is renowned for its strength and endurance to resist damage, staining and corrosion. It is quite often used as an alternative to marble as it is not only cost effective, but the polished or honed finish in travertine flooring can result in floors very similar to marble flooring. However, while it is a suitable stone flooring option, it's not immune to damage in the long run due to climatic changes, spills and foot traffic.

The best way to keep your travertine flooring in immaculate condition is by getting the tiles sealed before installation. Sealing travertine will create a barrier on top of the stone tiles, which will stop moisture and dirt from sinking into the surface where it will create stains and discoloration.

In its natural state, travertine has a lot of pits, holes or gaps in it. This defining characteristic of this type of stone are also what makes it unique to care for. On top of sealing, it's important to regularly clean your travertine floor tiles to ensure dirt and debris never settles into the pores. Over time, existing holes can fill with dirt and dust and cause the floor itself to look dirty. In addition, new holes can start to appear as a result of everyday wear and tear, which can cast shadows that look similar to dirt, even when the floor is clean.

Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaning products, as they could react with the tiles and permanently discolor them. It's especially important that you don't mop with too wet of a mop, which could degrade the floor's finish, dull the surface and encourage mold growth. A traditional cotton mop will only expedite this process and push dirty water back into the floor's holes. A damp microfiber mop absorbs the dirty soil into its fibers instead of pushing it around the surface.

Lastly, be sure that you don't neglect the grout lines when tile cleaning. Grout is a mortar or paste of cement, water and sand used for filling the gaps between tiles. Grout lines can also leave the travertine tiles vulnerable to damage as they allow an open space for the buildup of dirt, moisture, and grime, which can seep into the pores of the tiles. If your grout lines are damaged beyond repair they can be fully replaced or removed, but again, applying a sealant during the initial installation process is the best way to prevent future grout trouble.

Simple Green Multi-Surface Floor Care cleans all hard floor surfaces with a that won't leave behind dulling residue. The cleaner dries quickly, leaving behind a spot and streak-free finish that allows the natural beauty of the flooring to shine through. Powerful plant-based extracts, essential oils and minerals are used in place of petroleum distillates, ammonia, and chlorine commonly found in other floor-cleaning agents.

Directions:

1. Clear debris. Clean and clear the floor of all debris, dirt and dust using a vacuum, soft bristle broom or microfiber dust mop.
2. Apply Simple Green Multi-Surface Floor Care. Spray the cleaning solution as a light mist across your floor section by section.
3. Mop up in sections. Follow the cleaner with a clean, lightly damp mop.
4. Dry. Allow the floor to air dry completely or wipe dry with a soft cloth before allowing foot traffic again.

Note: Although sponge mops can be used with this product, best results are achieved with a washable microfiber pad or disposable mopping pad. On highly reflective or glossy floors, damp mop with plain water as a final rinse to restore greatest shine. There are no polishes or waxes in this product.