Inspiration
Travertine is a stone that is as smooth and elegant as it is porous and fragile. At The Socialite Family, we've chosen a matte finish created through a sanding technique based on the precious skills of our Italian craftsmen. The finish is water-repellent, which allows the stone to continue to breathe while protecting it from splashes and grease stains. However, travertine is still a material that requires care and attention. Here are our tips for proper maintenance.
Inspiration
Complete care and maintenance guide for travertine
What is travertine?
Origin and characteristics
Travertine is a sedimentary rock with a unique appearance. Its irregularities and different shades of colour result from the presence of mineral impurities such as clay, sand, iron oxide or lime in its composition. Italy is famous for its travertine quarries, although this stone is also quarried in other parts of the world. For The Socialite Family collection, we work hand in hand with our Italian craftsmen to select the stone we use with the greatest care. That's why each Carlotta stone tabletop has its own characteristic veining, irregularities and colour variations, making each piece unique.
Common uses for travertine
Because of its versatility, travertine has a special place in decoration. It is often found in tiles, wall coverings, kitchen worktops and even in outdoor landscaping. We love it as much for its naturalness as for its elegance. The tops of our high tables and low tables are a testament to this fact. Travertine blends perfectly with other materials. The Socialite Family offers a wide range of possible combinations. Our design studio has created a plethora of bases that allow your imagination and taste to express themselves fully. Our Carlotta table in travertine goes equally well with ash wood legs or creamy white, burgundy, green or black lacquered legs. That's where travertine comes into its own. Bright and organic, it blends into any setting to create the most beautiful decorative ambience.
Daily care tips for travertine
Looking after travertine on a day-to-day basis
Our Carlotta and Carlotta Alba tables are for indoor use only. Each tabletop is protected by a water-repellent treatment, which we advise you to reapply once a year. On a day-to-day basis, travertine is easy to look after by taking simple precautions, starting with using coasters and avoiding contact with acidic products (vinegar, lemon, wine or fruit juices), liquids (coffee, tea, water), greasy products (butter, oils and fats) or abrasive cleaning products such as bleach or lemon-based products. Heat should also be avoided.
Travertine maintenance: what products should I use?
For regular cleaning, use gentle, pH-neutral products. Avoid acidic cleaners, which could damage the travertine surface. To remove light stains, moisten a soft cloth with lukewarm water and gently wipe off any stains or spills. If the stain is stubborn, use a travertine cleaning product available from chemists or specialist shops. If you have any doubts, please contact someone who specialises in stone maintenance.
Techniques for protecting travertine
The importance of sealing
The porosity of travertine makes it susceptible to stains and knocks. Waterproofing is crucial to prevent it from absorbing liquids and grease. At The Socialite Family, each of our travertine table tops is protected by a water-repellent treatment. We advise you to renew it once a year, either by asking a professional or by buying the appropriate product from a chemist.
When and how should you waterproof your travertine?
For our tables, which are everyday objects and therefore regularly used, we recommend you renew the treatment ideally every year with a dedicated product available from chemists or specialist shops.
Maintaining travertine: how can you preserve its beauty?
Stains and scratches
Everyday objects are part of our lives, and the rough edges they pick up over time add to their charm, but even if your tabletop is treated, never let a stain linger. Wipe up any spill quickly with a clean cloth. Avoid abrasive products that could damage the finish. For scratches, use a pen or a touch-up kit specially designed for travertine.
Tips for making your travertine shine
Natural products for lasting radiance
Linseed oil: Apply linseed oil to the travertine with a soft cloth to give it a natural shine and protect it.
Beeswax: Use a small amount of beeswax to polish the travertine and give it a shiny finish.
Travertine, an organic material that lasts
Follow these travertine maintenance tips to ensure the longevity and timeless beauty of this natural stone in your home. Take the time to maintain your travertine regularly to preserve its shine and enjoy its elegance for many years to come.