Guide to Faber NEUGEL Cleaner for Natural Stones

Keeping natural stone and absorbent surfaces spotless isn’t as easy as it seems. Sure they are tough structures and look great, but their beauty hides a delicate nature. A single wrong choice in cleaning products can dull their shine, weaken their structure, or even cause irreversible damage. 

Surfaces like marble, sandstone, and terracotta are prone to stains, discolouration, and etching. The problem? Their porous nature. Dirt doesn’t just sit on the surface; it seeps in, taking root where standard cleaners can’t reach. Once grime embeds itself, removing it without damaging the material becomes difficult.

Take limestone, for example. It’s stunning in a foyer or patio, but home owners typically find it absorbing spills faster than they can mop them up. Use a harsh cleaner, and it might not just remove the dirt—it could strip away the very qualities that make limestone appealing. Worse still, abrasive chemicals can erode the surface, leaving it more vulnerable to future damage.

This is why the pH of the cleaner is a key issue. The goal is to work with a product that uis effective enough in getting rid of the dirt and grime, without ruining the underlying material in the process. Faber NEUGEL come in as a cleaning agent that gets the job done while protecting your installation.

What is Faber NEUGEL?

NEUGEL is a concentrated solution with a pH of 8.5, designed specifically for daily cleaning of natural and absorbent surfaces. Its unique gel formula stands out, offering precision and ease of use. Unlike liquid cleaners that run off or evaporate too quickly, this gel clings to surfaces, allowing you to clean efficiently and thoroughly.

Packed with natural ingredients, it does more than just clean. It nourishes your surfaces, gently restoring their original charm. Over time, this nourishment doesn’t just improve how your floors or counters look—it also builds a natural resistance to dirt. So the more you use NEUGEL, the better your surfaces get at repelling grime.

Absorbent surfaces like terracotta can trap dirt deeper than polished tiles. Standard cleaners often fail to tackle this embedded grime, leaving surfaces dull and lifeless. Faber NEUGEL, however, is designed for the challenge. It penetrates porous materials, lifting out dirt without harming the structure.

Over regular use, Faber NEUGEL creates a protective layer that reduces the adhesion of dirt and dust. Say you have a sandstone patio that’s received weeks of rain or your travertine flooring is in a high-traffic area. NEUGEL helps these surfaces stay cleaner for longer, cutting down the effort you need to maintain them.

NEUGEL also works equally well on rough, textured surfaces and smooth finishes. From rustic terracotta tiles to honed marble countertops, this cleaner adapts to your material’s needs. It’s a product designed for versatility and reliability.

Availability

You can choose between two sizes depending on your needs. The 1-litre bottles come in boxes of 12, perfect for smaller spaces or regular use. If you need a larger supply, the 5-litre bottles come in boxes of 4, giving you more coverage with fewer refills. Whether you’re stocking up for a big project or just keeping some on hand, there’s an option that works for you.

pH Factor In Surface Care

The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is, ranging from 0 (highly acidic) to 14 (highly alkaline). A pH-neutral cleaner sits comfortably at around 7, meaning it’s neither acidic nor alkaline. Why is this important? Because surfaces like marble and sandstone are highly sensitive to pH extremes. NEUGEL’s pH of 8.5 delivers the cleanign power needed, while still being gentle on the surface.

Acidic cleaners, with pH values below 7, might work wonders on standard tiles but can wreak havoc on delicate materials. For instance, even mild acids can etch marble, leaving behind dull, uneven patches. Similarly, sandstone, which is naturally porous, absorbs these acids like a sponge. The result? Discolouration, erosion, and permanent damage.

Alkaline cleaners, on the other hand, swing to the opposite end of the spectrum. While they’re tough on grease and grime, they’re just as tough on sensitive surfaces. Prolonged exposure can cause discolouration, leaving your beautiful granite countertops or travertine tiles looking faded and lifeless. Worse still, alkaline residues can build up over time, weakening the surface and making future cleaning even harder.

A gentle solution like you get with Faber NEUGEL removes dirt effectively without upsetting the material’s natural composition. This is particularly crucial for porous surfaces like terracotta and travertine, which absorb cleaners into their structure. That way, you avoid the chemical reactions that cause etching, streaking, or fading. 

NEUGEL takes this a step further by nourishing the surface, and to help maintain its tone and texture. Over time, this even builds a dirt-repellent layer, reducing the need for heavy-duty cleaning. That’s a win for your surfaces and your cleaning routine.

This formulation also eliminates the worry of residues. When diluted correctly, it requires no rinsing, making it ideal for busy households or high-traffic commercial spaces. So, whether you’re cleaning a polished granite countertop or a rugged sandstone patio, NEUGEL’s balanced approach guarantees peace of mind. No harsh reactions. Just a cleaner that works with your surfaces, not against them.

Sustainability and Longevity with Faber NEUGEL

By using natural ingredients, Faber NEUGEL helps you keep your spaces spotless without adding to the growing problem of chemical pollution. The concentrated gel formula also means you use less product per cleaning session. Diluting just 20–40 grams in five litres of water is enough to clean extensive areas. This efficiency translates to fewer purchases, reduced shipping emissions, and lower production demand—small choices that add up to a big difference.

Faber NEUGEL comes with an impressive 36-month shelf life. That’s three full years of usability. For comparison, many conventional cleaners expire within 12 to 18 months, leaving you with wasted product and unnecessary plastic waste. This longevity means fewer discarded bottles and less clutter under your sink.

Why does this matter? Globally, over 300 million tonnes of plastic are produced each year, much of it from single-use products. By choosing a cleaner with a longer shelf life, you’re actively reducing waste. One litre of Faber NEUGEL can last for months, even in regular use, covering up to 1,100 square metres per litre. That’s cleaning efficiency with minimal environmental impact.

But it’s not just about the packaging. NEUGEL is built to support a more sustainable future. By extending the life of your natural stone and absorbent surfaces, it reduces the need for costly and resource-intensive repairs or replacements. A well-maintained floor can last decades with proper care, and here you have a solution that plays a key role in making that happen.

Benefits of Faber NEUGEL

Gentle Yet Effective Cleaning

Cleaning delicate surfaces shouldn’t feel like a gamble. NEUGEL delivers a cleaning solution that’s both thorough and safe. Its gel formula lifts dirt and grime without damaging your surfaces, making it an ideal choice for sensitive materials like limestone and terracotta. 

Even better, rinsing isn’t required when Faber NEUGEL is diluted correctly. This eliminates the hassle of additional steps and conserves water—a win for both you and the environment. Its formula also dries quickly, making it perfect for busy spaces that need to be ready for use almost immediately.

Enhancing the Beauty of your Surfaces

Whether it’s the rich, earthy tones of terracotta or the polished elegance of marble, Faber NEUGEL’s formulationnourishes materials over time, helping to restore and maintain their natural beauty. 

Natural stones like travertine and basalt often lose their lustre due to regular wear and tear. NEUGEL not only cleans but also enhances their tones, keeping them vibrant and inviting. 

Compatibility with Multiple Surfaces

You can use the Faber NEUGEL on a wide range of natural stone and absorbent surfaces. From basalt and klinker to resin-quartz agglomerates, this cleaner adapts to the unique needs of your space. Rough and textured surfaces like tuff and structured porcelain can be tricky to clean, but Faber NEUGEL handles them with ease. It reaches deep into crevices, removing grime without compromising the surface’s integrity. For smoother finishes, such as honed porcelain tiles, it delivers a streak-free shine that you’ll love.

Faber NEUGEL works equally well for both indoor and outdoor applications. Whether it’s a granite countertop in your kitchen or a slate-paved terrace, this product will deliver on its mandate.

Ease of Use

No one wants to struggle with a complicated cleaning process. NEUGEL makes it simple. Its concentrated gel formula is easy to measure and mix, ensuring consistent results every time. The application is straightforward—just mop, wipe, or machine-clean, and you’re done.

Thanks to its fast-drying properties, Faber NEUGEL is ideal for high-traffic areas. You won’t be left waiting for floors to dry, and there’s no sticky residue to deal with. Whether you’re cleaning manually or using a machine like a single-disc floor cleaner, NEUGEL integrates seamlessly into your routine.

For both professionals and homeowners, Faber NEUGEL offers a practical, efficient, and effective solution. 

Applications of Faber NEUGEL

Indoor Applications

Your indoor surfaces deserve quality care, and NEUGEL delivers just that. 

Kitchen counters made of marble or granite often suffer from grease, spills, and food stains. NEUGEL gently lifts away the grime without scratching or dulling the surface, leaving it spotless and safe for food preparation.

In bathrooms, tiles and grout can accumulate soap scum and hard water stains. Porcelain tiles, whether glazed or honed, remain pristine with Faber NEUGEL’s regular use. Limestone flooring, which can easily absorb water and cleaning solutions, benefits from Faber NEUGEL’s formula that cleans without penetrating too deeply or leaving residues behind.

This extends to flooring. High-traffic indoor areas like hallways and living rooms, often made from the likes of ravertine or structured porcelain tiles, collect dirt fast. Faber NEUGEL handles these surfaces with ease, maintaining their natural look and extending their longevity. With coverage of up to 1,100 square metres per litre, it’s an economical and effective choice for your everyday cleaning needs.

Outdoor Applications

Outdoor surfaces face unique challenges. Rain, mud, and constant exposure to the elements can make patios, terraces, and driveways hard to maintain. Faber NEUGEL is up to the task. Whether your patio is paved with terracotta, granite, or concrete, this cleaner tackles dirt without you having to spend hours on the task.

Granite driveways often develop stains from vehicle fluids or weathering. Faber NEUGEL’s formula removes these blemishes without harming the stone’s integrity. Terracotta tiles, a popular choice for terraces, can absorb water and grime. The product gently cleans these porous surfaces, helping them retain their warm, earthy tones even after heavy rains.

But what about weather resilience? NEUGEL’s neutral pH ensures that outdoor materials aren’t weakened over time, even with frequent cleaning. This makes it especially suitable for large areas like stone pathways or poolside surfaces, where durability and safety are paramount.

Special Use Cases

Some surfaces demand extra attention, and NEUGEL rises to the occasion. High-absorption materials like terracotta and craquelé ceramic are prime examples. These surfaces are known for their stunning aesthetic but can quickly become dirt traps. With its gentle cleaning power, NEUGEL makes it easier to take care of thsm.

Terracotta, for instance, is highly porous. It can absorb dirt, spills, and cleaning products, leaving behind unsightly stains. Faber NEUGEL’s concentrated gel formula penetrates these pores, breaking down grime without saturating or damaging the material. Regular use keeps terracotta looking vibrant and prevents long-term wear.

Craquelé ceramic, with its fine cracks and delicate finish, presents another challenge. Standard cleaners often settle into the cracks, leaving residue that’s tough to remove. Faber NEUGEL cleans these surfaces thoroughly, lifting dirt from even the smallest crevices without leaving streaks or residue.

Then there’s the rugged charm of rough materials like travertine and tuff. These textured surfaces are notoriously difficult to clean. Dirt clings to their uneven surfaces, and abrasive cleaners can strip their natural beauty. Work on them with this formulation, preserving their unique texture and character. Its dirt-repellent properties make future cleaning even easier.

Industrial and Commercial Settings

Restaurants, offices, and public spaces demand cleanliness, but the materials used in these environments often complicate the job. NEUGEL simplifies it. From polished granite countertops in high-end restaurants to heavily trafficked concrete floors in offices, it’s designed to handle it all.

In restaurants, where grease, spills, and stains are a constant battle, the formulation cleans thoroughly without compromising the surface. It’s equally effective in offices, where materials like porcelain tiles and engineered stone dominate. With its gentle yet effective formula, you get to maintain a professional and polished look.

Public spaces bring a whole new set of challenges. High-traffic areas like shopping malls or museums often feature materials like slate or natural stone flooring. These surfaces endure heavy wear and tear, requiring a cleaner that’s tough on dirt but gentle on the material. You can get that with this agent. Whether it’s a single-disc machine for large flooring areas or a hard floor cleaner for precision tasks, NEUGEL works with professional tools. Its gel formulation ensures consistent results, whether applied by hand or machine.

Faber NEUGEL Application Techniques and Best Practices

Preparing the Surface

Start by removing dust, debris, and loose dirt from the surface. Use a broom, vacuum cleaner, or a soft brush to ensure the area is free from particles that might scratch or dull your material during cleaning. For outdoor spaces like patios or driveways, a quick sweep or rinse with water will do the trick.

For indoor surfaces, such as marble countertops or bathroom tiles, focus on clearing any sticky residues or stubborn marks. This simple step lays the foundation for effective cleaning and lets Faber NEUGEL do what it does best—clean deeply without interference.

Dilution Guidelines

NEUGEL’s concentrated formula means you’ll only need a small amount for big results. For materials with medium absorption, like granite or honed porcelain, dilute 20–30 grams of NEUGEL in 5 litres of clean water. That’s about two to three caps of product in a standard cleaning bucket.

High-absorption surfaces like terracotta or craquelé ceramic require slightly more: 30–40 grams in 5 litres of water. This higher concentration ensures deep cleaning without oversaturating the material. These precise ratios make the product efficient and cost-effective, covering up to 1,100 square metres per litre.

Cleaning Process

Once diluted, Faber NEUGEL is ready to apply. Use a mop, cloth, or single-disc machine, depending on the surface and area size. For floors, a well-wrung mop works best to spread the solution evenly. On smaller surfaces, like kitchen counters or tiles, a soft cloth ensures thorough coverage.

Move systematically to avoid missing spots. Work in manageable sections, especially on larger areas like terraces or office floors. The gel-based formula clings to the surface, lifting dirt without dripping or streaking.

No rinsing is needed. When Faber NEUGEL is diluted correctly, it dries cleanly, leaving no residue behind. This saves time and water, making it an excellent choice for busy households or commercial settings.

Maintenance

Don’t forget your tools! After cleaning, rinse mops, cloths, or machine pads with clean water to remove any product build-up. Allow them to air-dry completely before storing to prevent mildew or odours.

To extend NEUGEL’s effectiveness, follow its storage instructions. Keep the container tightly sealed in a cool, dry place. With a 36-month shelf life, you won’t need to worry about waste or expired product. This longevity makes Faber NEUGEL a practical and sustainable choice for both occasional and routine cleaning tasks.

By preparing your surfaces properly, using the right dilution, and following these simple steps, you’ll achieve spotless results every time. 

Common Household Cleaners That Are A Threat To Your Natural Stone Surfaces

Avoid these when working on this kind of surfaces:

Acid-Based Cleaners

A single use of vinegar, lemon juice, or bleach can etch the surface, leaving dull spots that won’t disappear. If you've ever noticed cloudy rings or rough patches, an acidic cleaner is the culprit.

Plenty of household stone damage is caused by acidic cleaning solutions. Yet, many products marketed as “natural” or “eco-friendly” contain citric or acetic acid, both of which eat away at stone.

Even something as innocent as spilling orange juice can leave permanent scars on unsealed stone. And bleach? It oxidises and weakens the structure, and fades natural colour. Once the damage is done, resurfacing may be your only option.

Ammonia

Ammonia breaks down protective sealants, exposing the raw stone to further damage. Once the surface is compromised, stains become impossible to remove. That means your granite worktop or slate floor might be silently crumbling every time you spray and wipe.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide might seem mild, but for natural stone, it’s a slow-acting nightmare. Peroxide cleaners cause discolouration in cases where they’re used on marble, limestone, or travertine.

The oxidation process lightens some areas while darkening others, creating an uneven, patchy look. Once this happens, restoration is costly and time-consuming.

Scouring Powders

Some people still swear by scouring powders for deep cleaning. Big mistake. Stone surfaces sustain micro-scratches when scrubbed with abrasive powders.

These scratches trap dirt, making the stone look permanently dirty no matter how much you clean. Worse still, over time, repeated scrubbing erodes the stone, leaving it rough and uneven. Once that happens, it’s almost impossible to restore its original smoothness.

Dish Soap

Yes, dish soap is gentle. But it’s also a long-term trap for grime. Continuous use of dish soap leads to an increase in residue build-up on stone surfaces.

That sticky film attracts dust, grease, and bacteria, making your worktop look dull and dirty. Even worse, soap residue reacts with hard water minerals, creating stubborn streaks and blotches that refuse to go away.

Multi-Surface Cleaners

If you see “safe for all surfaces” on a cleaner, don’t be quick to use it on those marble, granite and limestone installations. Many contain hidden chemicals that wreak havoc on stone. Many of the “multi-surface” cleaners contain acids, ammonia, or solvents that degrade natural stone. These cleaners strip away natural oils that keep stone looking vibrant, leaving a dull, lifeless surface. Even those labeled “gentle” can contain alcohols that dry out stone, leading to cracks over time.

9 Factors to Consider When Looking Into Cleaning Products 

• Porosity of the Stone

General rule: the more porous a stone is, the more susceptible it will be to to damage. You have the likes of marble and limestone absorbing liquids quickly, making them more prone to to staining and surface deterioration. Others, like granite, are denser and more resistant. The porosity level will weigh in on the kind of product that you will use.

For regular cleaning, a neutral solution is the safest option. It keeps the surface clean without compromising the stone’s natural look. If you need a deeper clean, a slightly alkaline solution can help break down grease and dirt without causing harm.

• Residue and Build-Up

Some cleaners leave behind a sticky residue that traps dirt and dust, making your floors look dirty faster. Others create a hazy film, dulling the natural shine of the stone.

If a product isn’t rinsed properly or contains waxes, it can lead to an uneven surface appearance over time. Avoid anything with synthetic polymers, which may initially create a glossy effect but will eventually make the floor harder to clean.

• Compatibility with Sealants

Most natural stone floors are sealed to protect them from stains and moisture damage. You don’t want to damage this sealant. Incompatible chemicals can strip it away, leaving the stone vulnerable.

Before using any product, check whether it’s suitable for sealed surfaces. You can also test it out on an inconspicuous spot to be certain. Some formulations are even designed to enhance sealant performance, extending the life of the protective layer rather than breaking it down.

• Environmental Impact

You want to get rid of dirt and grime - but nature doesn;t have to suffer as a reult. There are plenty of products that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), These contribute to indoor air pollution and can be harmful to your health. Here, you will want to go with low-VOC or VOC-free formulations.

Biodegradable and eco-friendly cleaners are widely available. Some even meet recognised safety certifications.

• Ease of Application

Some cleaning products require multiple steps, including pre-treatments, scrubbing, rinsing, and buffing. Others are designed for quick application, making routine maintenance less time-consuming.

If efficiency matters to you, look for a product that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum results. Spray-and-wipe solutions or concentrated formulas that don’t need rinsing can save time without compromising cleanliness.

• Cost vs. Long-Term Value

A cheaper cleaning solution might seem like a bargain, but if it causes long-term damage to your stone floors, you’ll end up spending more on repairs and resealing.

Investing in a high-quality cleaner can extend the life of your flooring, saving you money in the long run. Consider the cost per use rather than just the upfront price—concentrated formulas like Faber NEUGEL often provide better value than ready-to-use alternatives.

• Shelf Life and Storage

Not all cleaning products have the same shelf life. Some have a long-lasting formula that remains effective for years, while others lose their potency over time.

If you don’t clean your floors frequently, a product with a long shelf life will prevent waste. Additionally, check storage requirements—some cleaners need to be kept in specific conditions to maintain their effectiveness.

• Frequency of Use

Some floors require daily cleaning, while others can go longer between washes. Do you get high traffic in your area? Then you will want a product that can be used for frequent cleaning without degrading the stone.

A heavy-duty cleaner might be necessary for stubborn dirt and grime, but overuse can damage delicate stone surfaces. The goal here is balancing effectiveness with gentleness to maintain the floor’s appearance over time.

• Disposal and Waste Management

Some cleaning products contain hazardous chemicals that require special disposal methods. Pouring them down the drain can harm the environment and violate local waste regulations.

Look for products with clear disposal instructions to prevent contamination. Water-based and biodegradable options are generally safer and easier to dispose of responsibly.

Faber: A Legacy of Innovation and Sustainability

Brand matters when buying cleaning agents. So who is behind NEUGEL? 

That’ll be Faber Chimica, founded in 1986 in Fabriano, Italy. Their expertise covers everything from natural stone, marble, and granite to ceramic, porcelain, and concrete. The company works closely with producers, architects, and restoration experts to create solutions that suite the needs of specific projects. Their hands-on approach ensures their products are not just effective but also practical for everyday use. 

Key application areas include:

• Industrial solutions: Custom treatments developed alongside material producers.
• Professional services: Maintenance and restoration for architects and facility managers.
• Home care: High-quality, easy-to-use products for end-users.

This layered approach makes it easier for Faber to address customer needs from large-scale projects to individual households. As proof of its standards, it has received internationally recognised certifications:

• ISO 9001:2015 (quality management).
• ISO 14001:2015 (environmental responsibility).

Their products are also tested by independent labs to guarantee safety, breathability, and compliance with food-contact standards. Such backing enables you to have more confidence in the products you’re purchasing. Faber even holds VOC-free certifications for its water-based sealers, underscoring its commitment to eco-friendly solutions.

From its humble beginnings, Faber has expanded globally, establishing exclusive distribution networks in key regions:

• Singapore (2001): Serving Southeast Asia through FABERCA PTE LTD.
• UAE (2016): FABERME GENERAL TRADING LLC, focusing on the GCC market.
• Spain (2023): FABER IBERIA for the Iberian Peninsula.

These regional hubs ensure timely delivery and support, with well-stocked warehouses and skilled technical teams. This global footprint reflects Faber’s ambition to make its innovative solutions accessible worldwide. Regarding sustainability, initiatives include:

• Using eco-friendly raw materials and recyclable packaging.
• Actively reducing CO₂ emissions through systematic monitoring.
• Regularly educating employees and partners on sustainable practices.

Faber is also a proud member of the Green Building Council Italia and the Green Building Council Singapore.

So when you pick NEUGEL for your delicate surfaces like marble, terracotta, and porcelain, you can rest assured that you’re getting it from a reliable brand. A solution that has come from Faber’s decades of research and development. One that is gentle on surfaces, tough on dirt, and environmentally responsible. 

Faber Neugel