We’ve discussed the best ways to clean your countertops in regards to Covid-19, and in the past we’ve discussed why marble might be the best choice for your home. But one thing we’ve never discussed in detail was the care, maintenance and cleaning of marble, and it’s about time we did!
What Should I Know When it Comes to Cleaning Marble?
The real key to keeping marble countertops clean is prevention, so it all depends on how your countertops are prepared and sealed. As your marble supplier, we will certainly make sure you and your installer have all the important details when delivering your product. This includes how to properly seal and maintain your new countertop.
Many homeowners considering marble for their kitchen surfaces are concerned about below-the-surface scratches and etchings. While some issues may require a professional polisher, don’t get too worried – almost any light surface damage can easily be corrected!
Preparation is key to keeping your marble beautiful. This means having the right products on hand to quickly wipe up those spills and messes before they become problematic. Below we will go cover some of those cleaning items and how to use them.
While all this may sound a bit daunting at first, most homeowners quickly realize that caring for marble countertops is not difficult at all and the beauty far outweighs any inconvenience.
What Should I Avoid Using When Cleaning Marble?
Many people think they can use just about anything when cleaning a countertop, but when it comes to natural stone, it’s important to know the do’s and don’ts. Windex, bleach, vinegar – three of the most common household cleaners – should be avoided when cleaning marble. The chemicals in these popular cleaners can etch the surface of the marble. Harsh abrasives should also be avoided as they can also damage the finish, so be sure to use softer pads and cloths.
What Cleaners are Best for Cleaning Marble Countertops?
Simple is always best, and surprisingly, mild soapy water is the best choice for everyday cleaning. In a previous post, we mentioned that our go to choice for cleaning marble is one of the specially-made, ph-neutral marble cleaners. Although we still stand by this statement, we realize not everyone wants to spend the money on these more expensive “specialty” cleaners. In the end, you can achieve very similar results by mixing non-abrasive dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle. Simply spray the countertop, and after scrubbing gently, wipe off the surface with a wet cloth until all the soap residue is gone. Once it is dry, buff the marble with a soft towel.
When it comes to removing stains, make sure you know what the stain is before you attempt to remove it. If it’s oil based, clean the surface gently with mineral spirits or acetone. If it’s organic, such as coffee or wine, use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and ammonia. If it’s mildew, try a mixture of bleach, water, and dish soap. Feel free to contact us for more details and more specific stain information – we are glad to help!
Tips for Keeping Your Marble Countertops Beautiful
As we mentioned above, prevention is the key to keeping your marble countertops in pristine condition, so here are a few tips to help you keep those marble countertops looking great:
- Clean any spills right away – the longer they linger, the more difficult they are to remove!
- Keep it simple – the most efficient way to keep your marble clean is to properly seal it and use a simple mixture of dish soap and water for day-to-day cleanings.
- If you question a cleaning method, try a test spot to ensure the viability! Choose a spot that is out of the way or easily covered and test out the cleaning method in question.
- Prevention. Is. Key. Using coasters, potholders, cutting boards, properly sealing and sealing often if necessary, and not letting stains sit for too long will help keep your marble looking gorgeous for years to come.
If you have any questions on the cleaning and maintenance of marble, please reach out to us or even stop by our showroom!
