When travertine gets wet, it naturally absorbs moisture, causing the stone to darken temporarily until it dries. Because travertine is porous, unsealed stone left chronically damp is susceptible to permanent staining, mold, and freeze-thaw cracking. Wet travertine can also become slick depending on the surface finish.
Yes, water can damage travertine due to its porous nature. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause staining, mould growth, and surface erosion. Proper sealing prevents water absorption, protecting the stone's durability and appearance.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Tools and Supplies Safe for Cleaning Travertine Floors
You will need: Soft vacuum for hard floors or a soft-bristle broom: Used to remove loose dirt and grit before any moisture is applied. Neutral pH cleaner for natural stone: Designed for routine care of travertine and similar stone surfaces.
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.
Chipped tiles, stained grout, and brightly colored porcelain tubs and toilets (think avocado green, mustard yellow, or bubblegum pink) instantly make a bathroom look neglected. No matter how clean the rest of the space is, damaged surfaces or retro fixtures give off a dated vibe.
Gray-toned hardwood and laminate. Wide plank farmhouse-style wood. Painted floorboards. Artificial or fake-looking wood.
To safely remove these deposits, use a pH-neutral stone cleaner specifically designed for travertine. For stubborn buildup, a mixture of warm water and a small amount of hydrogen peroxide or a stone-safe descaler can help break down the minerals.
In general, granite is pricier, ranging from $45-$200 per square foot for materials. The added durability offers excellent long-term value despite the higher initial cost. Travertine is less expensive, with prices ranging from $25-$150 per square foot for slab material.
Restoring scratches and the finish on travertine floors is manageable with the right techniques. By cleaning, polishing, honing (for deeper scratches), and sealing your floors, you can bring back their beauty and shine.
Cleaning a Travertine Shower with Dawn
Yes, but be careful. Put a few drops of Dawn in a spray bottle with warm water. Lightly spray the surface of the travertine tile. Use a microfiber cloth or a soft sponge to wipe it down gently.
For outdoor travertine, the best and safest cleaner is a pH-neutral stone cleaner, such as Granite Gold Outdoor Stone Cleaner (about $7) or Black Diamond Stoneworks Natural Stone Cleaner. These are non-acidic, gentle on the porous surface, and won't etch the stone or harm surrounding plants and pets.
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.
Avoid Citrus Or Vinegar Cleaning Agents
Both these elements will cause the Travertine surface to dull. Acidic substances like lemon, orange peels, baking soda, vinegar slowly may penetrate the surface to cause irreparable damage.
Method 3: Dawn Dish Soap and Water
Step 1: Begin by sweeping or vacuuming the tile floors clean. Step 2: Prepare the cleaning solution by combining warm water and a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle. Step 3: Generously spray the cleaning solution all over the tile floor, then use a flathead mop to wipe it up.
Unfortunately, Pine-Sol can potentially strip and damage the sealer on travertine. You may need to have the floors re-sealed by a professional after thorough cleaning. Avoid acidic cleaners going forward. Travertine is vulnerable to etching from acidic substances.
How to tell if travertine is good quality?
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.
Travertine pairs beautifully with warm neutrals like cream, beige, and greige. To modernize it, contrast the warm, earthy stone with cool tones like navy blue, deep sage green, or charcoal gray. Avoid stark, cool whites, which can make the stone look dated or dull.