HOW TO SEAL YOUR NATURAL STONE AND AVOID LINGERING ODORS & FUMES
Do you have natural stone surfaces in your home? The installation of stones such as quartz, granite, and marble on kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, and backsplashes continue to rise as people seek out materials that offer a combination of beauty and durability.
One of the most common misconceptions about natural stone is that it is impervious to damage, but that’s not true. In fact, every type of natural stone needs to be properly sealed and treated to prevent stains and other types of damage.
If you’ve ever tried to use a traditional stone sealer, you may know that they often contain toxic chemicals. Those chemicals smell terrible and can leave your home full of lingering fumes. Fortunately, there are alternatives to harsh stone sealing products that are just as—if not more—effective than the current standard, without toxic chemicals and headache-inducing odors.
WHY YOU SHOULD STEAL NATURAL STONE SURFACES
Natural stones may be durable, but they all require sealing if you want them to look their best. The stones used in countertops vary in porosity and permeability. Some types of stone are more susceptible to stains than others. For example, marble is highly porous and very susceptible to stains, particularly from acidic foods and substances, while quartz is less porous and somewhat more resistant to stains. Sealing adds a layer of protection to natural stone. The challenge is finding an odor-free sealer that won’t fill your home with a noxious smell.
WHY SEALER ODOR IS A PROBLEM
You already know that cleaning chemicals often have a harsh odor that makes them less than ideal for use in your home. Even with proper ventilation, the strong chemical scent can linger for days.
The truth is that the reason most stone sealers have a noxious odor is because they contain toxic chemicals, often in the form of solvents. Beyond the ingredients that are listed on the label or the manufacturer’s website, there may be additional toxic substances hidden in fragrances and other inactive ingredients.
The problem with that harsh smell is that goes beyond your nose. These toxic chemicals and added fragrances can cause an array of unpleasant symptoms such as headaches, dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly to those sensitive to odors. Pets may also be affected too, especially ones that stay strictly inside.
THE BEST SEALER TO USE ON NATURAL STONE SURFACES
If safe cleaning is a priority for you, then the best option is to use an odor-free sealer that contains no artificial fragrances or toxic chemicals that can impact your health or the health of your family and pets.
The best stone sealer is one that is:
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Free of all toxic chemicals that may be harmful to your health
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Free of harsh odors associated with chemicals
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Fragrance-free (in other words, containing no artificial fragrances that may themselves contain harmful chemicals)
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Food safe
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Safe for children and pets
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Does not require you to wear a mask or gloves to apply
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Works effectively to seal and protect stone surfaces from spills, stains and dirt
Ideally, you should also look for a product that can be used on more than one type of surface in your home. Many of the stone sealers on the market are useful only on natural stone. However, there are products that can work effectively to seal and protect stainless steel, decorative metals, wood, plastic, leather and tile surfaces as well.
Sealing your natural stone kitchen countertops, backsplashes and bathroom countertops is a must if you want to keep the stone looking its best. If you want to avoid the headache of harsh chemical odors (no pun intended), look for a nontoxic, odorless stone sealer that keeps surfaces protected and beautiful.
