Although the dense and hard characteristics of blue stone make it a very popular choice for both interior and exterior paving projects, it is a stone that tends to develop stains over time. This can have a very detrimental effect on the appearance of your stone, especially if the stains are left for long periods of time to ooze and further take root on the surface of the bluestone pavers. Use this guide to help you remove stains as soon as you see them.

Cleaning

You should always start by thoroughly cleaning your bluestone pavers; You never know when this simple method will actually get rid of that pesky stain. Use a neutral cleaner specially made for use on natural stone (even better if it is designed for blue stone), a special stone soap, or a mild liquid detergent (the kind used for washing dishes). Add this to a bucket of warm water and use a mop or soft cloth to apply the solution to the pavers.

Stain remover

If a simple cleaning wasn’t effective in removing the stains your bluestone has developed, one of these methods should be able to do the trick.

• Organic: These are pinkish brown spots that are caused by coffee, fruit, and leaves left on the surface of the blue stone. On exterior surfaces, simply remove offending material and let the sun wash away the stain with bleach. On interior surfaces, use a water-based solution, a few drops of ammonia, and 12 percent hydrogen peroxide to remove the stain.
• Petroleum: These stains often appear greasy and are caused by cooking oils and greasy foods left on the surface of the blue stone. Use a liquid cleaner, such as dishwashing liquid, mixed with water to remove.
• Ink: These stains can be removed on lighter blue stone with bleach or hydrogen peroxide. For a darker stone, use a lacquer thinner or acetone to remove the marks.
• Biological: These stains are caused by the growth of mold or algae; You will need to kill the bacteria on the blue stone to remove it effectively. Use half a cup of ammonia, bleach, or hydrogen peroxide that has been diluted in water (only use one and never mix these chemicals).
• Metal: These stains are caused by rusty furniture that seeps into the blue stone below and is very difficult to remove. You may need to mix a poultice to remove the stain.

Regardless of the dense and hard nature of bluestone, it can still be stained if not handled or maintained properly. If you notice that your stone has developed stains as a result of spillage or weathering, try using one of the techniques above to remove it and restore your blue stone to its former glory.