How do you clean slate floors?

For routine cleaning of slate floors, sweep the floor, use a dust mop to remove fine dust, finish with a damp mop soaked in a detergent solution, and allow the floor to air dry. Use a mild detergent to prevent damage to the slate.

1. Sweep the floor

   Sweep the floor with a soft broom to remove any loose debris.

2. Use a dust mop

   Choose an oil-free dust mop for removing any accumulated dust that sweeping does not remove. Granite is a porous material and absorbs oil if it is on the mop head. If you are having difficulty locating this type of dust mop, check a janitorial supply company.

3. Mop the floor

   Mix 1/4 cup gentle laundry detergent with 1 gallon warm water. Green laundry detergents are a good choice and are less expensive than most stone floor cleaners. Do not add vinegar to the mop water because acids etch stone tiles. Wring the mop, leaving it only slightly damp, and mop the floor. Use slow and gentle strokes to cover the entire floor, and rinse the mop often. Slate does not require rinsing unless you have added too much detergent to the mop water.

4. Allow the floor to air dry

   Keep traffic off the floor for the short time it takes to air dry.