A Guide to Cleaning Household Surfaces

Slate

Use: A few drops of dishwashing liquid and warm water.

Tools: A soft cloth, sponge, or mop.

Tips: Sweep or vacuum regularly. After cleaning, dry thoroughly with a clean cloth. Apply a penetrating sealer, available at stone dealers and home centers, to countertops and floors every two years to prevent deep stains. Don't use abrasive cleansers, vinegar, or lemon-based cleansers.

Tough stains: To remove soap scum, clean with ammonia and water (a half-cup of ammonia to one gallon of water).