How to polish Travertine
Polishing travertine restores gloss and removes light etches. For deeper damage you'll need a pro with diamond pads — but for spot etches and ring marks the powder method works.
What you'll need
- • Stone polishing powder (often labeled marble polish)
- • Soft microfiber cloths
- • Spray bottle of distilled water
- • Optional: low-speed buffer with white pad for larger areas
Step-by-step
- 1Clean the area with pH-neutral cleaner and let it dry.
- 2Sprinkle a small amount of polishing powder over the dull spot.
- 3Mist with distilled water to make a paste.
- 4Buff in small, tight circles with a damp microfiber for 2–3 minutes.
- 5Wipe clean and check the gloss — repeat once if needed.
- 6Reseal the area once it has dried for 24 hours.
Do not use
- Sandpaper — Removes too much material and leaves visible scratches.
- Car wax or furniture polish — Leaves a film, traps dirt, doesn't bond to stone.
- High-speed grinders — Creates heat marks and burns through the finish.
When to call a pro
Etches deeper than a fingernail catch, large dull patches, or any whole-floor refinish. Pros wet-hone with diamond pads for an even, lasting result.
Identify your stone & get a quote