How To Care for Concrete Home Accessories?

Astrid van Essen
11 minutes ago
3 min read

Simple tips to keep your concrete pieces looking their best

Concrete décor has a timeless charm—minimalist, natural, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s a tray on your coffee table, a diffuser in your bathroom, or a bowl on your windowsill, caring for concrete helps it stay beautiful for years to come.

concrete home accessories on a table by www.botanicalblueprint.com — How To Care for Concrete Home Accessories?

This blog post, "How To Care for Concrete Home Accessories?" provides a simple guide to maintaining your concrete home accessories, keeping them clean, and preventing damage.

Why Concrete Needs a Bit of Care

Concrete is naturally porous, absorbing moisture, oils, and stains over time. Minor marks, hairline cracks, and surface variations are all part of its character, but a little regular upkeep will preserve your piece's look and feel.

Everyday Cleaning Tips

Concrete doesn’t need much—just a gentle touch and regular dusting. Here’s how to clean it safely:

Use a soft, dry cloth to dust your item regularly.
Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap for spills or light dirt.
Dry straight away with a towel—don’t leave water to sit.
Avoid bleach, acidic cleaners, or abrasive scrubs.

This is especially important for trays or bowls near food, oils, or skincare products.

Protecting the Surface

A few simple habits can keep your concrete décor looking smart:

Add felt pads underneath trays, bowls, or diffusers to protect furniture.
Avoid dragging heavy items across the surface.
Keep your concrete piece out of direct water contact—don’t soak it or leave it in damp areas unless fully sealed.

Dealing with Stains and Spills

Concrete can stain if liquids are left to sit, but quick action usually prevents this:

Act fast: blot any spills with a dry cloth.
Oil marks: sprinkle baking soda over the area, leave for an hour, then gently wipe away.
Stubborn stains: use a soft cloth and soapy water, or very fine sandpaper for surface marks—test a small patch first.

Indoor vs Outdoor Use

Not all concrete is the same. If your item is meant for indoors, keep it dry and away from frost.

Outdoor use: If you place planters or décor outside, ensure they’re sealed and weather-resistant.
Bring them indoors over winter to avoid frost damage.
Read more in our blog: How to Winterproof Concrete Planters.

Repairing Small Chips or Cracks

It’s normal for concrete to develop minor cracks over time, especially in high-use areas.

These are usually cosmetic and part of the material’s natural charm.
You can use a fine cement filler or patching compound for deeper chips or damage.
For detailed help, see our guide: Concrete Repair Tips for DIY Planters and Pots

Ongoing Maintenance

To help your concrete last even longer:

Reseal any items used around moisture (like trays or planters) every 1–2 years.
Store unused items in a dry, cool space to prevent dust and dampness.
Don’t stack concrete items tightly—they can scratch each other.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use concrete trays for food? Only if they are sealed with a food-safe sealant. Otherwise, decorative use is recommended.
How often should I reseal my concrete décor? Every 1–2 years, especially if exposed to moisture or oils.
Can I use essential oils in a concrete diffuser? Yes, but add oils to the central well only, not directly on the raw concrete surface unless it’s sealed.
Will concrete crack indoors? Only under extreme changes in temperature or impact. Hairline cracks can appear naturally and are usually harmless.
What’s the best way to clean a concrete bowl? Wipe with a damp cloth and dry it well. For deeper cleaning, use mild soap—avoid soaking.