Bluestone pavers bring a timeless elegance to any Australian home. Their unique colour variations and natural texture create stunning patios, walkways, and pool surrounds. But as with any premium material exposed to the elements, life happens. A dropped sausage from the barbie, a tipped-over glass of red, or the slow creep of moss can leave you with unsightly stains.
There’s nothing more disheartening than seeing a beautiful bluestone surface marred by stubborn marks. The good news? With the right knowledge and techniques, you can safely and effectively remove most common stains, restoring your pavers to their former glory.
As Australia’s trusted experts in natural stone and landscaping solutions, we at BuildMart are here to guide you. This guide will walk you through the safest, most effective methods for cleaning your bluestone, stain by stain.
Before You Begin: The 3 Golden Rules of Cleaning Bluestone
Before you reach for any cleaner or scrubbing brush, understanding these three rules is crucial. Bluestone is not like concrete or ceramic tile; it requires a specific approach to avoid permanent damage.
Rule #1: Understand Your Stone’s Sensitivity
Bluestone is a natural stone, meaning it’s more porous and chemically sensitive than manufactured materials. This porosity allows it to absorb liquids (and stains) more deeply, and its mineral composition reacts poorly to harsh chemicals.
Rule #2: Avoid Harsh Acids and Abrasives
This is the most important rule. Never use acidic cleaners on your bluestone pavers. This includes common DIY suggestions like vinegar and lemon juice, as well as acid-based brick cleaners or harsh chemical bleaches. These substances will react with the calcium carbonate in the stone, causing “etching”—a permanent dulling or discolouration of the surface. Stick to pH-neutral or specialised alkaline cleaners.
Rule #3: Always Perform a Spot-Test
Even with a recommended cleaner, you must always test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. Apply the solution to a single paver in a corner, follow the cleaning steps, and let it dry completely to ensure there is no adverse reaction before tackling the main stain.
Your Stain-by-Stain Troubleshooting Guide
Here’s how to tackle the most common stains you’ll find on your bluestone pavers.
How to Remove Organic Stains (Moss, Algae, Leaves, Bird Droppings)
These are often the easiest stains to remove if dealt with promptly.
Materials Needed:
- Stiff, soft-bristle brush (not a wire brush)
- Bucket of warm water
- A pH-neutral stone cleaner
- Garden hose with a spray nozzle
Steps:
- Sweep: Clear the area of all loose debris, leaves, and dirt.
- Mix Solution: Dilute your pH-neutral stone cleaner in the bucket of warm water according to the product’s instructions.
- Apply & Scrub: Apply the solution to the stained area and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to break down the organic matter. Gently scrub with your soft-bristle brush.
- Rinse: Thoroughly rinse the area with your garden hose until all cleaning solution and grime are gone.
How to Tackle Oil, Grease, and Food Stains (BBQ Fats, Salad Dressing)
The key to oil stains is to act as quickly as possible to prevent them from penetrating deeply into the stone.
Materials Needed:
- Paper towels or an absorbent cloth
- Baking soda or cornflour
- Water
- Plastic wrap and tape
- Plastic scraper or putty knife
Steps:
- Blot, Don’t Rub: Immediately blot up any excess oil with a clean paper towel. Rubbing will only spread the stain.
- Create a Poultice: Mix baking soda with just enough water to form a thick paste, about the consistency of peanut butter.
- Apply the Poultice: Generously apply the paste over the entire stain, extending about a centimetre beyond the edges.
- Cover and Wait: Cover the poultice with plastic wrap and tape down the edges. Let it sit for 24 to 48 hours. The poultice works by drawing the oil out of the stone and into the baking soda as it dries.
- Remove and Rinse: Once completely dry, use a plastic scraper to remove the hardened poultice and rinse the area thoroughly with water. For deep-set stains, you may need to repeat the process.
How to Remove Rust Stains
Rust stains typically come from metal outdoor furniture, pot plants, or fertilisers containing iron.
Materials Needed:
- A commercial, non-acidic rust remover specifically formulated for natural stone.
- Soft brush and clean cloths
Steps:
- Choose the Right Product: Do not use generic hardware store rust removers, as they are often acid-based. Invest in a product designed for bluestone to avoid etching.
- Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application, dwelling time, and removal. This usually involves applying the product, letting it work, and then rinsing it away.
The Great Debate: Can You Pressure Wash Bluestone Pavers?
The short answer is yes, but with extreme caution. Improper pressure washing can strip the surface of the stone, dislodge the jointing sand between pavers, and cause irreversible damage. If you choose to pressure wash, follow these safety rules without exception:
- Use the lowest pressure setting that is effective.
- Always use a wide, 40-degree fan-tip nozzle, never a direct jet stream.
- Maintain a consistent distance of at least 30-50 cm from the paver surface.
- Keep the wand moving in a sweeping motion to avoid concentrating pressure on one spot.
The Best Defence: Sealing Your Bluestone for Future Protection
Cleaning stains is reactive; sealing is proactive. Applying a quality sealer to your bluestone pavers is the single best thing you can do to protect them long-term. A good penetrating sealer works by absorbing into the pores of the stone to create an invisible barrier that repels water and oil, making cleaning easier and preventing stains from setting in.
Protect your investment. Explore BuildMart Australia’s range of premium stone sealers to give your bluestone the ultimate defence against stains.
Conclusion: Maintain Your Bluestone’s Timeless Beauty
Your bluestone pavers are a valuable feature of your home. By following these simple rules—identifying the stain, using the correct gentle method, always testing first, and considering a quality sealer—you can easily manage any stains and keep your outdoor spaces looking pristine for years to come.
Whether you’re caring for an existing patio or planning a new project, BuildMart has the expert advice and premium products you need. Browse our stunning range of bluestone pavers or contact our team for personalised guidance today.