How to Care for Travertine and Marble Home Accessories: Keep Your Pieces Beautiful for Years to Come

Why Travertine and Marble Are the Ultimate Choice for Elegant Homes

At What a Host Home, we believe that stone home accessories do more than serve a function. They elevate your everyday living and entertaining experience. Materials like travertine and marble bring timeless texture, character, and natural elegance to any space.

Whether you're hosting an intimate brunch or styling your coffee table for guests, travertine coasters, marble napkin rings, and marble serving boards add a luxurious finishing touch that never goes out of style.

Key Benefits of Travertine and Marble:

• Uniqueness: No two pieces are alike. The veining, textures, and colours vary naturally.

• Durability: Both stones are long-lasting when cared for correctly.

• Aesthetic Versatility: Works well with minimalist, rustic, and modern interiors.

• Eco-Friendly Elegance: Sustainably sourced and naturally beautiful.

How to Clean Travertine and Marble Accessories the Right Way

Travertine and marble are natural porous stones, which means they absorb liquids and can stain or etch if not treated properly. Whether it's your travertine serving board or your marble coasters, here's how to clean them without damaging the stone.

1. Daily Cleaning Tips

• Wipe with a soft, damp cloth after each use to remove crumbs, spills, and fingerprints.

• Avoid harsh cleaners, acidic substances (like vinegar, lemon juice, or wine), and bleach — these can dull the finish and etch the surface.

• For a deeper clean, use a pH-neutral stone cleaner or mild dish soap diluted with warm water.

• Dry thoroughly with a clean, soft towel to avoid water spots.

2. Removing Common Stains

Got a stubborn coffee ring or wine stain?

• Act quickly — blot, don’t rub!

• Mix baking soda with a few drops of water to form a gentle paste.

• Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then wipe clean.

• Rinse and dry thoroughly.

• Always test cleaning methods in an inconspicuous area first.

The Importance of Sealing: Protect Your Stone

Natural stones like travertine and marble benefit greatly from regular sealing, especially when used for serving food or drinks.

Should You Seal Travertine and Marble Accessories?

Yes, especially if the stone feels porous or is frequently exposed to moisture, oils, or acidic foods.

How to Seal Your Stone Accessories

• Use a food-safe stone sealer, available at most home improvement stores.

• Apply evenly with a clean cloth or sponge and allow it to absorb.

• Buff off excess and let it cure as per manufacturer instructions.

• Reseal every 6–12 months for optimal protection.

Sealing helps prevent:

• Permanent staining

• Surface etching from acidic foods

• Moisture damage and bacterial buildup

Specific Tips for Travertine and Marble Coasters

Your coasters are in constant use, shielding your tables from condensation, heat, and spills.

Do:

• Wipe clean after each use.

• Stack with felt or cork pads between each to prevent scratches.

• Reseal if they start to absorb liquids or lose their luster.

Don't:

• Leave wet glasses on them for long periods.

• Use abrasive scrubbers.

• Let them soak in water.

Caring for Stone Napkin Rings

Napkin rings made from travertine or marble add refinement to any dining setting. Though less exposed to food, they still benefit from thoughtful care.

Care Tips:

• Wipe gently with a damp cloth if soiled.

• Avoid abrasive or acidic products near them.

• Store them in a soft-lined drawer or pouch to avoid chips.

How to Maintain and Protect Your Serving Boards

Your travertine or marble serving board is likely the star of your hosting setup. From charcuterie spreads to brunch bites, it takes center stage; but also needs protection.

Best Practices for Serving Food

• For wet, oily, or acidic foods, use parchment paper or place items in ceramic or glass dishes on top of the board.

• Avoid cutting directly on the stone. This can leave marks or dull knives.

• Wipe immediately after use with a damp cloth, then dry.

• Do not submerge in water or put in the dishwasher.

How to Store Your Stone Accessories

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the beauty and structural integrity of your stone pieces.

Coasters:

• Stack carefully with soft layers between each.

• Store in a box or drawer away from heavy items.

Serving Boards:

• Store upright in a rack or vertical organiser.

• Avoid placing other objects on top to prevent cracking or chipping.

• Keep away from high humidity environments (like above dishwashers or near stovetops).

Napkin Rings:

• Use soft-lined compartments or small pouches to avoid friction.

• Keep away from direct sunlight to preserve the natural tones.

Bonus: Styling Tips to Showcase Your Travertine and Marble Decor

Aside from their function, these pieces are also styling staples. Here are a few quick ideas:

• Stack coasters on your coffee table with a small vase or candle on top.

• Display napkin rings in a bowl or tray on open shelving.

• Use your serving board as a base for a centerpiece with candles and seasonal décor when not in use.

Pro Tip: Neutral stone accessories pair beautifully with organic textiles, wood accents, and brass or gold tones.

Final Thoughts: Invest in Longevity and Luxury

Caring for travertine and marble accessories isn’t complicated. It just takes consistency and a little knowledge. By following these tips, you can ensure that your What a Host Home accessories remain stunning and functional for years to come.

At What a Host Home, we craft each piece with timeless elegance and durability in mind. From our travertine coastersto marble serving boards and stone napkin rings, every item is designed to elevate your space while making entertaining effortless.

Explore our full collection here and bring natural stone luxury into your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Travertine and Marble Home Accessories

Q1: How do I clean marble serving boards without damaging them?

To clean marble serving boards, use a soft, damp cloth and a few drops of mild, pH-neutral dish soap diluted in water. Avoid abrasive scrubbers and acidic substances like lemon or vinegar, which can etch the surface. Always dry your board thoroughly to maintain its polished finish.

Q2: Can I use marble or travertine accessories for everyday use?

Absolutely! Stone home accessories like marble coasters, travertine napkin rings, and stone serving boards are durable enough for everyday use; just treat them with care. Wipe them regularly, avoid harsh chemicals, and store them properly.

Q3: Are stone serving boards eco-friendly?

Yes, eco-friendly stone serving boards are made from natural materials like marble and travertine, which are sustainably sourced and long-lasting. At What a Host Home, we take pride in offering timeless, eco-conscious pieces that minimise waste and maximise beauty.

Q4: What are the best stone coasters for drinks?

The best stone coasters for drinks are made from sealed travertine or marble. These natural stones offer excellent temperature resistance and absorbency. They're also naturally stylish and complement a variety of home aesthetics.

Q5: How should I store my stone napkin rings?

To avoid scratches or chips, store travertine napkin rings in a soft pouch or lined drawer. Keep them away from metal or hard objects and avoid stacking them directly without padding.

Q6: Can I cut food directly on my stone serving board?

It’s best not to cut directly on natural stone serving boards, including those made of travertine and marble. Doing so can damage both your knives and the board. Use the board for presentation, and slice ingredients beforehand.

Q7: Are your travertine and marble products suitable for modern homes?

Yes, our modern stone table accessories are designed to suit contemporary interiors. Whether you love minimalism, modern rustic, or Scandinavian design, the natural textures of marble and travertine fit right in.