Natural pumice stone is a volcanic rock formed by the rapid cooling of lava. They are characterized by a porous structure, due to gas bubbles trapped in the burning mineral. It’s so light it floats on water!
This makes some of the properties of pumice stone well known. His high porosity makes it very absorbent. Its rough texture also provides a abrasive action, Useful for polishing and removing impurities on skin and many materials.
But, in addition, pumice stone is a excellent thermal insulation, thanks to its low density, and it is very resistant to high temperatures.
All these properties allow it to be used in various industries, from construction to cosmetics, cleaning and gardening. Yes, your pumice stone is not only useful in the bathroom. It is a perfect utensil for many other, much less known uses that are also very sustainable.
How to use pumice at home and on plants
1. To eliminate urine and limescale in the toilet
Have all the measures to eliminate scale in the toilet failed? Yellowish deposits on the sides and bottom of the toilet bowl can be very stubborn and They often resist commercially available cleaners.
The pumice stone allows you remove them without scratching the ceramic:
- Lower the water level in the toilet so the stains are exposed.
- Then, wet the pumice stone with warm water and gently rub the incrustations applying some pressure, but without overdoing it so as not to scratch the surface.
- Once the stains have disappeared, rinse the area well with water to remove traces of lime or residue from the pumice stone.
- If necessary, repeat the process until the toilet is completely clean.
2. To improve drainage in flower beds and plants
Its ability to retain or absorb water also makes pumice a practical material for indoor plant lovers and for hobby gardeners:
- As a drainage layer in pots, it facilitates the evacuation of excess irrigation water and prevents waterlogging. To do this, simply place 2-3 centimeters of the rock in the soil and then fill the pot with soil.
- For better soil aeration, 10% pumice stone is sufficient. Mixed with potting soil, it improves air circulation and promotes root growth
- Pumice can also serve as a covering material, because it protects the soil from drying out and inhibits the growth of weeds
3. As a substrate for green roofs
Due to its low weight and its ability to store water without flooding, This natural material is also suitable as a substrate for green roofs.
The pumice stone It can be used as a sustainable building material. Improves insulation performance and can be reused as recycled granules at the end of its life cycle.
4. TO clean the grill and oven tray
Cleaning the grill after a barbecue can be quite exhausting. It’s easier to do it with a moistened pumice stone.
If you pre-soak the grill in a little water with vinegar, Even the most stubborn deposits can be removed.
To avoid damage and scratches, Do not use the method on enamelled or sensitive surfaces.
How to care for your pumice stone properly
Good maintenance will allow you to use it for a long time.
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In order to enjoy this practical everyday helper for as long as possible, It is recommended to periodically clean the pumice stone. You must perform the following cleaning routine after each use:
- Rinse it: After use with clean water to remove dead skin or other loose dirt.
- clean it with a natural soap, insisting on dirty areas with a small brush (for example, with an old toothbrush). Then rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove soap residue and dirt.
- dry it in an airy place
To avoid the accumulation of germs, from time to time it is recommended Boil the pumice stone for 5 to 10 minutes.
Why it is especially sustainable
As a versatile natural material, pumice can replace a whole range of products and It is extremely sustainable for the following reasons:
1. It is versatile
Its specific properties make pumice a natural material that can be used for numerous practical purposes.
If a stone has become too dirty for skin care, You can continue using it, for example, for cleaning the home.
2. It is durable
With a little care, the pumice stone It can last you almost forever.
3. It has no plastic
natural pumice stone It is made up of 100% rock and does not contain any material that is problematic for the environment or health.
This makes it much more sustainable as a cleaning product, for example, than aggressive cleanersand the products in luxurious plastic packaging.
4. Available regionally
Pumice is mined all over the world, There are European products that can be purchased to avoid long transport routes and avoid unnecessary CO2 emissions.
If you want to buy pumice stone, you will find it in pharmacies, drugstores, organic supermarkets and online. When purchasing, Don’t forget to pay attention to the origin and composition of the product.
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