Yes, you should fill holes in travertine. Filling prevents dirt buildup, keeps water from causing cracks, and stops sharp edges from snagging socks or toes. However, it is a personal preference: some homeowners leave smaller pits unfilled to maintain the stone's rustic, natural appearance.
To fill holes in travertine, the most reliable and DIY-friendly option is a water-activated powder filler like StonePro Traverfill or the Miracle Sealants Travertine Filler Kit. These create long-lasting, color-matched, and matte-finish repairs.
The important point here to consider is that the natural pits and voids of travertine usually worsen over time due to heavy use, temperature changes, and moisture. We thus recommend 'filling' as an ideal solution if you choose travertine for your project.
Bathroom tile trends for 2026 are all about warmth, texture and quiet confidence ✨ Travertine continues to lead the way, especially in larger formats with minimal grout lines, creating calm spa-like spaces that feel timeless rather than trend-led.
Why Does Outdoor Travertine Have Holes? Travertine is a type of limestone formed naturally with air and water pockets. When it's cut into tiles, those pockets are exposed as pits or voids. These aren't defects—they're part of the stone's natural character and actually improve traction underfoot.
Travertine has holes because it is a natural, fresh-water sedimentary rock formed around mineral springs. As the stone forms, trapped carbon dioxide gas bubbles and running water carve out pockets in the soft calcium carbonate. When the rock is cut into tiles, these air pockets and water channels are exposed as pits, voids, and pores.
Yes, Dawn dish soap is generally safe for travertine, provided it is heavily diluted, you use a mild formulation, and you rinse the stone thoroughly. However, it is best reserved as a spot-cleaner rather than an everyday maintenance product.
One disadvantage of travertine is that it is a porous stone, which makes it susceptible to staining and water damage if not properly sealed. Additionally, it can be scratched or chipped more easily than harder stones like granite. Regular maintenance is required to keep it looking its best.
Beige & Ivory
Beige and ivory travertine are the most popular choices. Their light, neutral tones create a clean, elegant look that complements virtually any style of home. They also help keep outdoor surfaces cooler under the sun, making them perfect for pool decks and patios.
Gray-toned hardwood and laminate. Wide plank farmhouse-style wood. Painted floorboards. Artificial or fake-looking wood.
Yes, travertine is widely considered a luxury natural stone. Valued for its unique veining, earthy textures, and historical pedigree (famously used to build the Colosseum), it is a staple in high-end design for creating a sophisticated, spa-like, or "quiet luxury" aesthetic.
Vinegar is acidic and can damage travertine, which is a type of natural stone. When vinegar comes into contact with travertine, it can etch the surface, causing dull spots, discoloration, and erosion. It is best to avoid using vinegar or other acidic cleaners on travertine.
On average, you can expect to pay no more than $1.50* per square foot to clean and seal your stone. You should also consider polishing your stone for an additional $1.50* per square foot. For more information, check out our Natural Stone Cleaning Page. (*Prices subject to change.
Never use harsh chemicals or acid-based cleaners, as these can seriously damage travertine tiles..
Neutral Pairings for a Classic Look
Neutral colors like white, beige, and gray always work beautifully with travertine. White or off-white trim and walls create a clean, Mediterranean-style aesthetic. Light gray furniture or accent rugs balance the warm undertones of the stone.
#3 – Bluestone as an Alternative to Travertine Stone
They are a cheaper alternative to the travertine stones and provide a similar range of colors and tones to simulate the appearance of the travertine. Bluestone is chiefly for outdoor applications like patios, decks, paths, and landscaped spaces.
How to tell if travertine is good quality?
It is not recommended to use Dawn dish soap or any acidic or harsh cleaners on travertine, as they can damage the stone's surface and dull its finish. Instead, use a pH-neutral stone cleaner or mild soap specifically designed for natural stone surfaces.
No, travertine is not outdated. It has made a major comeback in modern, high-end design. While the busy, highly tumbled styles from the 2000s Tuscan-trend feel dated, today’s designers embrace travertine for its organic warmth, texture, and ability to create calm, spa-like spaces.
Due to their abrasive nature, sand, dirt, and grit damage natural stone surfaces the most. Floors ... Travertine tile can be cleaned with Swiffer? but stay away from the "wet" attachments, as the chemicals in them can damage natural stone.
Murphy's is essentially a mild, vegetable-oil-based soap. When properly diluted, it has a near-neutral pH and contains no harsh solvents or acids. That's why it's gentle on wood—and also why it won't etch calcium-based stones like marble or travertine.
The best mops for travertine floors are high-quality microfiber flat mops or gentle power spin mops. Because travertine is highly porous and prone to etching, the ideal mop allows for damp-only mopping and pairs perfectly with pH-neutral stone cleaners.
Yes, you can use hydrogen peroxide on travertine, but it must be done with caution. It is an excellent, stone-safe alternative to harsh bleach or acids for lifting organic stains (coffee, wine, food), mold, and mildew.