How to Clean Alabaster: 3 Easy Steps to Preserve Its Delicate Surface

Stone carvers have been fascinated by alabaster for centuries. Although alluring, this kind of stone is prone to scratching. If you're curious about how to clean alabaster on your own, follow these easy steps to carefully preserve this delicate stone.

Alabaster is a metamorphic rock that resembles marble yet is far more delicate. Renowned for its softness and appealing aesthetics, alabaster requires careful cleaning techniques due to its vulnerability to scratching and discoloration.

If you're wondering how to clean a beautiful piece of alabaster without messing it up, we've got you covered! The following is an easy step-by-step guide for effectively cleaning alabaster.

An alabaster vase in a wooden box | Source: Shutterstock

How to Clean Alabaster

1. Remove surface dust and debris.

Avoid using a cloth to remove dust and debris from alabaster. This might push dirt into the stone and generate static electricity. Instead, gently brush the surface with a dry artist's brush to remove surface dust and debris.

Regular dusting is essential to prevent grime buildup. If deep engravings are present as you gently brush off dirt from the alabaster, wrap the brush's metal part with masking tape to avoid scratches. Consider using conservation foam erasers and specific solvents for a more thorough cleaning.

Clean alabaster by gently brushing the surface with a dry artist's brush. | Source: Shutterstock

2. Use solvents or borax powder.

Solvents can be used to clean alabaster without drying out the stone. For this purpose, a cotton swab soaked with acetone is an effective option. Alternatively, you can use white spirits by dabbing this solvent on a cloth and rubbing it on the stone.

Another option is borax powder. It's a gentle alternative and won't cause a scratch on the alabaster. Prepare and place the dry powdered borax in a shallow bowl. Slightly dampen a soft cloth with water and dip it in the borax.

Before cleaning, test the method on a hidden part of the object to ensure compatibility. Once you've tested it, gently rub it on the piece. Remember to avoid vigorous rubbing to prevent potential damage.

Apply a solvent-soaked cotton swab and gently rub it on the alabaster. | Source: Pexels

3. Wipe away residuals.

After cleaning, use a clean and dry cloth to wipe away any remaining borax. If the alabaster cannot be rinsed under running water, use a natural sponge free of sand or shell particles to wipe down any remaining borax gently. Dip the sponge repeatedly in clear water to eliminate the borax effectively.

Use a natural sponge to wipe away any residue from the borax powder. | Source: Shutterstock

To maintain the beauty of alabaster, it is essential to handle it delicately and with meticulous attention to detail. By following these steps, you can ensure a thorough cleanse without compromising its exquisite allure.

Just like alabaster, another stone—pumice—requires extra care to maintain its effectiveness in our daily skincare routine. Here are steps on how to clean your pumice stone for hygienic usage.