Luxurious surfaces throughout the home require special care

Granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and travertine floors were all once associated with luxury homes but are now staples of new home construction and renovations. However, with these specialty products comes a requirement of special care.

Improper cleaning materials or techniques could turn your beautiful, and possibly pricey, home accessory into a huge eye-sore. So, what can you do to prevent a possible catastrophe?

With these maintenance suggestions from the experts at Merry Maids, high-end surfaces will retain their natural beauty and functionality for years to come.

Granite countertops

* Natural stone is more porous than synthetic, so clean spills before they penetrate the surface.

* Clean with a neutral cleaner such as stone soap or a mild solution of dishwashing soap and warm water. Rinse after washing with the soap solution and dry with a soft, clean cloth.

* Never use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads to clean the surface.

* Reduce streaks by using microfiber cloths or gloves.

Stainless steel surfaces

* Stainless steel is stain-resistant but occasionally dulls and easily shows oily fingerprints. Use white or cider vinegar to clean and polish stainless steel surfaces. Moisten a cloth and wipe clean.

* Clean stainless steel with a mild soap solution followed by a clean water rinse.

* Use nonabrasive cleaners to prevent scratching.

* Use club soda to remove streaks and heat stains.

* Remove fingerprints by gently rubbing with glass cleaner, then rinse with warm water. A paste of baking soda and water will work just as well.

Travertine floors

* Travertine is a calcium-based, alkaline stone and is easily damaged by acid substances. Do not use vinegar, lemon juice or cleaners containing acids.

* Immediately wipe up spills and messes before they penetrate the surface. Use mild, neutral cleaners for daily cleaning.

* Rinse the tile and grout thoroughly to remove any remaining cleaner.

* Dry and polish cleaned areas.

* Frequent sweeping is the easiest way to protect flooring surfaces. Use brooms with soft bristles for smooth floors and medium bristles for textured surfaces.

Information courtesy NewsUSA