Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 2: Cleaning the floor
• Method 2 of 2: Removing stains
• Tips
• Warnings
• What do you need

While slate floors are attractive, these floors are porous, prone to staining and require special care to look their best. Clean the floor with basic accessories such as a broom, dust brush, mild detergent, and a wet mop. Use water and detergent, hydrogen peroxide, or shaving cream to remove stains.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: Cleaning the floor

1. 1 Sweep the floor to remove debris.
2. 2 Wipe the floor by moving the dust brush in one direction only. Avoid back and forth movements that only raise dust around.
3. 3 Clean the floor with a mop and water without detergents if the floor is not very dirty.
   • Clean heavily soiled floors with a mild detergent or slate cleaner. Mix 1/8 cup (25 ml) mild detergent with 1 gallon (3.78 liters) water, or follow the directions on the slate detergent package.
   • Dip the mop into the bucket and wring it out thoroughly to remove excess water.
   • Wash the floor, making sure to clean everywhere, including along the baseboard. Wash and wring out the brush frequently.
   • Clean the floor with a mop and clean water if you notice any lather or soap residue. Wash the mop in a bucket, then fill it with warm water if necessary.
4. 4 Let the floor dry. Keep people and pets away from the floor until it is dry.

Method 2 of 2: Removing stains

1. 1 Wipe away streaks with a soft cloth or paper towel as soon as they appear.
2. 2 Scrub the stains with a non-metallic bristle brush, water and a little detergent.
   • If the stain is stubborn and not on colored grout, use a 50/50 solution of water and hydrogen peroxide, which is a type of bleach. Leave the solution on the stain for 15 minutes, then repeat.
   • You can also remove stubborn stains by mixing hydrogen peroxide and a little baking soda to create a paste. Apply the mixture to the stain after the peroxide stops fizzling.After the mixture is dry, use a solution of water and peroxide and dry with a soft cloth or paper towels.
   • If the stain is on the colored grout, use shaving foam. First, apply shaving cream to the grout in an inconspicuous area to make sure the grout does not discolor. If safe, apply shaving cream to the colored grout and wash off with warm water after 15 minutes.

Tips

• A commercial detergent is available, but make sure it is acid-free before using it on a colored grout.
• Slate floors are porous and prone to staining. One of the Sealants for and Stone can be purchased at a tile store. Apply 2 or 3 coats of sealant.

Warnings

• Do not place rubber mats on the slate floor, as rubber can damage it.
• Do not use oil-based dust brushes.
• Do not use detergent with acid in it. Note that vinegar is acidic. Some laundry detergents are environmentally friendly and work well on slate floors.

What do you need

• Broom
• Dust brush
• Bucket
• Water
• Detergent.
• Wet mop
• Brush
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Baking soda
• Shaving cream
• Sealant