The natural beauty and durability of slate as flooring can improve the aesthetic factor of any house. It’s important to note that slate can last longer than other flooring options. The difference compared to most other natural stones is that sealing is not required with slate.
Although superior quality slate is non-porous, the mediocre-quality variants are prone to oil stains. From automotive oil to cooking oil, these stains can mar the pristine appearance of slate flooring. The immediate removal of oil from slate is vital because it will soak deeper into the surface over time. Read further to learn how to remove oil stains from slate.
Table of Contents
Get rid of oil stains from slate
You can remove oil stains from slate with a mixture of dish soap and warm water. If you can’t get rid of the oil all the way with this solution next step is to use a combination of baking soda and water.
Steps on how to remove oil stains from slate
If you want to restore the pristine and clean appearance of your slate flooring, simply follow these steps to remove oil stains from slate.
- Sweep away any loose grime, debris, and dust from the slate flooring with a broom.
- Prepare a cleaning solution by combining ½ teaspoon of ordinary dish soap into a bucket that contains 1 gallon of lukewarm water.
- Moisten a non-abrasive sponge into the foamy water. Scrub on the stained area to remove the oil.
- Saturate a cloth with clean, warm water. Wipe the slate surface to rinse away the cleaning solution.
- Inspect the slate surface for any lingering oil. If a trace remains, prepare a mixture of ½ cup baking soda and ¼ cup water in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until a paste form that has a consistency similar to peanut butter.
- Dab a ¼ inch layer of the paste consistently over the stained area using a rubber spatula. Conceal this layer with a plastic wrap and seal the site with tape. Leave it covered for 24 hours to soak up the oil.
- Remove the plastic wrap to expose the paste. Dampen a clean cloth with fresh water and scrub it away from the slate surface. Make sure that there is no leftover paste on the slate.
- Use a dry towel to wipe the slate surface dry.
[crp]
Regular cleaning routine for slate flooring
Remember that your slate flooring requires regular care to maintain its clean and beautiful appearance.
- Thoroughly sweep or dry mop the slate surface to get rid of any loose debris and dirt.
- Prepare a cleaning solution by mixing a few drops of mild dish detergent in a few cups of warm water.
- Use a soft rag and soak it into the solution to remove dirt and grime on the surface.
- Dry the floor with a towel and let it air dry overnight.
For deep cleaning, simply follow the steps above, and once the surface is dry, apply a dense layer of teak oil with a soft towel or cloth. You can easily find teak oil in most hardware stores.
Can I use olive oil on slate?
Slate is a natural stone that is often a preferred choice for high-end projects. The durability of the stone, along with its natural beauty makes it the ideal choice for many people. You can also choose from a variety of colors and tones.
Although the raw stone is rugged and naturally beautiful, it can be polished to enhance its appearance. There are several products that you can use to polish the surface, including natural oils such as olive oil.
Natural oils are often overlooked as a polishing solution, but they often work well. Olive oil can be applied with an old rag or buffed onto surfaces just like wax. As an alternative to using chemicals to improve and polish the surface, olive oil is a great natural approach. The cold-pressed, pure oils such as olive oil, sunflower seed oil, coconut oil, or linseed oil are all suitable options to avoid impurities and additives.
How do you remove acid stains from slate?
When dealing with mild acid stains on slate surfaces and restoring its pristine appearance, simply follow these steps.
- Prepare a solution by mixing detergent or washing soda with warm water.
- Use a cloth or soft-bristled brush. Soak into the solution and brush the stained surface.
- Thoroughly rinse the site with water and allow it to dry.
Does baking soda remove oil stains from slate?
If you are dealing with stubborn oil stains from slate, you can use baking soda. Simply prepare a paste by mixing hydrogen peroxide and baking soda.
Once the bubbles subside, dab the paste on the stained area and allow it to set. Lastly, wipe the slate surface clean using a warm, moist towel.
Final thoughts
When your slate floor ends up with oil stains, they can mar the pristine appearance of your floor. Immediate action is vital to prevent the stains from setting further. By following the steps to remove oil stains from slate, you can readily get rid of the stain and restore the beautiful and clean appearance of your floor.
