Living with travertine: an honest care guide

Travertine is one of our favourite materials: warm, soft and full of tiny holes that give it its character. It is also a natural stone that will change as you live with it. Here’s what to expect.

Filled or unfilled

Filled travertine has its holes filled with resin or grout for a smoother surface. Unfilled travertine keeps them open; it looks softer and more natural but collects a little dust. For kitchens we usually choose honed and filled; for side tables and bathrooms, unfilled is lovely.

Unfilled travertine after two winters of family life.

Seal it, and seal it again

Travertine is porous. Seal it before use with a good impregnating sealer, and again every year or so. Water should bead on the surface; when it stops beading, it’s time.

Avoid acid

Lemon juice, vinegar and some cleaners will etch the surface, leaving dull marks. Wipe spills quickly and clean with warm water and a pH-neutral stone soap.

Let it age

A few marks and a softer sheen over time are part of the charm. Travertine has been used for two thousand years; it is meant to look lived on.