The Truth About Travertine: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know
If you’ve ever walked into a luxury home and admired the warm, earthy tones of the flooring or countertops, chances are you were looking at travertine. It’s beautiful — but it’s also a bit high-maintenance. At Blank Space Cleaning, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to give you the honest truth about caring for this gorgeous natural stone.
1. What Is Travertine?
Travertine is a type of natural limestone, formed by mineral deposits in hot springs. You can spot it by its signature pits and holes — that’s not damage, it’s just part of its charm! Travertine typically comes in neutral shades like ivory, beige, and tan. The color depends on the minerals present when it formed, giving each piece a unique, organic look.
But here’s the catch: travertine is very porous. That means it soaks up liquids like a sponge, which is why sealing it properly is absolutely essential to prevent stains.
2. Where Will You Find It?
Everywhere.
Travertine is a popular choice in high-end homes because of its timeless beauty. You’ll commonly find it in:
Flooring (especially in entryways and kitchens)
Bathroom showers and walls
Countertops
Fireplaces
Outdoor patios and pool decks
If you’ve got travertine in your home, you’re living the luxury life — but that also means a little extra care is needed to keep it looking flawless.
3. How to Clean Travertine (Without Ruining It)
Warning: Not all cleaners are safe for travertine.
Because it’s a natural stone, acidic or abrasive cleaners can cause permanent damage. Bleach, vinegar, and most common bathroom cleaners are a big no-no. They can etch or dull the surface, or worse, eat away at the sealant.
Instead, here’s how we keep travertine sparkling and safe:
✅ Use a pH-neutral cleaner
Two trusted options we personally use at Blank Space Cleaning:
Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds (diluted properly)
Zep Neutral pH Floor Cleaner
✅ Use a soft microfiber mop or cloth
Avoid anything scratchy — gentle is best.
✅ Keep it dry
Moisture can seep into those tiny holes and cause discoloration or mildew, especially in bathrooms.
✅ Seal regularly
Sealing your travertine every 1–2 years will help protect it from spills and stains.
Let the Experts Handle It
Travertine is beautiful, but it’s not low-maintenance. If you want to protect your investment (and your sanity), let a professional team like Blank Space Cleaning care for it properly. We’re trained in how to clean delicate surfaces, and we only use products that are safe and effective for natural stone.
✨ Schedule your deep clean today — and let us make your space sparkle!
