Onyx is a show‑stopping natural stone—translucent, richly banded, and luxurious. With the right care routine, it will stay brilliant for years.
What Makes Onyx Different?
Unlike dense marbles or granites, onyx is a softer, more delicate stone formed by layered minerals. That gorgeous translucency and banding is why designers love it—but it also means onyx needs gentle cleaners, sealing, and smart placement.
Best Places to Use Onyx
- Backlit feature walls & niches—show off translucency.
- Vanity splashes & bar fronts—eye‑catching, lower impact zones.
- Decorative shower walls—OK with proper sealing; avoid floors.
- Kitchen range walls—beautiful if you keep splatter controlled.
Avoid: heavy‑traffic floors, entryways, and areas prone to abrasion.
Onyx Care: Quick Do’s & Don’ts
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Seal on install and reseal as needed (typically every 6–12 months). | Use acidic cleaners (vinegar, lemon, bleach) or abrasive pads. |
| Wipe daily with a soft microfiber and pH‑neutral stone cleaner. | Let spills sit—especially wine, coffee, citrus, oils. |
| Use cutting boards, trivets, and coasters. | Drag cookware or décor across the surface. |
| Use soft water where possible; squeegee shower walls after use. | Allow hard‑water deposits to build up (they etch and dull). |
| Choose honed or leathered finishes for lower maintenance. | Rely on harsh “soap scum” or degreaser chemicals. |
Simple Care Schedule
- After use (baths/showers): quick squeegee + microfiber wipe.
- Weekly: pH‑neutral stone cleaner; buff dry with a soft towel.
- Quarterly: water‑bead test—if water doesn’t bead, it’s time to reseal.
- Annually: inspect grout/caulk; deep clean + reseal as needed.
Stains, Etching & Scratches—What to Do
Stain (darkened area)
Blot—not wipe—then clean with pH‑neutral cleaner. For stubborn oil stains, consult a stone professional for a stone‑safe poultice.
Etch mark (dull, light spot)
Caused by acid contact. Light etches may improve with professional stone polish; deeper etches usually need a refinishing service.
Fine scratches
Use décor pads and soft cloths; for existing scratches, schedule professional honing/polishing—don’t DIY with abrasives.
Grout, Sealers & Finishes
- Grout color: choose a tone that complements veining; avoid stark contrasts that telegraph lines.
- Sealer: penetrating/impregnating sealer designed for calcareous stones (follow label dwell time and cure).
- Finish: honed for softer sheen; polished for dramatic reflection (more sensitive to etching).
Design Ideas with Onyx
- Backlit bar or niche: use a slim LED panel behind lighter onyx.
- Mosaic backsplash: pair onyx mosaics with warm metals and soft white paint.
- Statement shower wall: one feature panel + neutral field tiles elsewhere.
Browse inspiration and order samples: Onyx Tiles · Onyx Mosaics
FAQ
Do I need to seal onyx? Yes—seal on install and reseal periodically based on use and water exposure.
Which cleaners are safe? Only pH‑neutral stone cleaners; avoid acids and abrasives.
Is onyx OK in showers? Yes for walls with proper sealing and squeegeeing; avoid shower floors.