Marble is a beautiful and luxurious natural porous stone commonly used in home decor and construction. It is known for its elegant and timeless appearance but can also be prone to staining and scratching if it is not adequately cared for. To maintain the beauty and longevity of your marble surfaces, it is important to regularly clean and protect them. This article comprehensively overviews how to clean marble counters and surfaces. Let’s take a look:
Products To Use When Cleaning Marble Countertops And Surfaces
There are a variety of products that you can use to clean marble surfaces. Choosing a product specifically designed for use on marble is important, as harsh or abrasive cleaners can damage the surface. Here are a few options:
- Mild detergent: A mild detergent such as dish soap can gently clean marble surfaces. Just be sure to rinse the surface thoroughly after cleaning to avoid leaving any soap residue behind. Mild dish soap or detergent can be an effective cleaning solution for marble surfaces, as it is gentle and can help clean organic stains.
- pH-neutral cleaner: A pH-neutral cleaner is a safe choice for cleaning marble, as it will not etch the surface. These cleaners are designed to gently remove dirt and grime without causing damage to the marble.
- Marble cleaner: A marble countertop cleaner is specifically designed for marble surfaces. These cleaners may be more expensive than other options, but they are often more effective at removing stains and discoloration.
- Water and vinegar: You can mix equal water and vinegar in a spray bottle for a natural cleaning solution. This solution can gently clean marble surfaces, but be sure to rinse the surface thoroughly after cleaning to remove any vinegar residue.
- Hydrogen peroxide: This can be used to clean marble countertops and surfaces, but it is important to use cautiously. When using, it is crucial to dilute the hydrogen peroxide. This can be done by mixing a small amount of hydrogen peroxide with water in a spray bottle. The ratio should be about 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 3 parts water. Once done, spray the diluted hydrogen peroxide solution on the marble surface and let it sit for a few minutes. It is important to be cautious when using hydrogen peroxide to clean marble, as it can cause discoloration of dark marble if left on for too long. It is also a good idea to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on the marble countertop.
- Lemon juice: Lemon juice can be an effective natural cleaning solution for marble surfaces. To clean, first, dilute the lemon juice with water. Then mix equal parts lemon juice and water in a spray bottle. This will help to prevent the lemon juice from damaging the marble surface. Spray the diluted lemon juice onto the marble surface and wipe it down with a soft cloth or sponge. Once you’ve wiped the surface, rinse it with water and dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth. It’s important to note that while a few drops of lemon juice can effectively remove stubborn stains and discoloration from marble surfaces, it can also be acidic and may cause damage if used in large quantities or left on the surface for an extended period.
How To Clean Marble Counters?
To clean marble countertops, you will need the following:
- A soft, microfiber cloth or sponge
- A mild detergent or marble cleaner
- A clean, dry cloth
Instructions:
- Wipe down the countertops with a soft, damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
- Mix a small amount of mild detergent or marble cleaner with warm water. Dip the cloth or sponge into the solution and wring it out, so it is just damp.
- Gently scrub the countertops with a damp cloth or sponge, paying extra attention to any stains or heavily soiled areas.
- Rinse the countertops with clean water and wipe them dry with a clean cloth.
Tips:
- Avoid using abrasive sponges or harsh cleaners, as they can scratch or damage the surface of the marble.
- To remove stains, try using baking soda and water paste. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for a few hours before wiping it away with a damp cloth.
- Sealing marble countertops helps to prevent damage and keep your marble counters looking their best. This protects the stone from stains and moisture.
Tips To Take Care Of Marble Surfaces At Home
- Dust and clean regularly: Wipe down marble surfaces with a soft, damp cloth weekly to remove dust and dirt.
- Use a mild detergent: Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive sponges, as they can damage the surface of the marble. Instead, use a mild detergent or a special marble cleaner to clean the surface.
- Protect the surface: To prevent stains and damage, consider sealing the marble surface regularly. This will help protect the stone from moisture and other contaminants.
- Wipe up spills immediately: If a liquid is spilled on the marble surface, wipe it up as soon as possible to prevent staining.
- Use coasters: To prevent water rings and other damage, use coasters when placing drinks on marble tabletops.
Following these simple tips can help keep your marble surfaces looking beautiful for years to come. However, given that marble is a high-quality and expensive material, hiring a professional for marble cleaning in Chicago can help protect your investment.
Products To Avoid When Cleaning Marble Countertops And Surfaces
When cleaning marble surfaces, it is important to avoid using certain products and materials that can damage or discolor the stone. Here are some things to avoid when cleaning marble:
- Harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the surface of the marble. This includes bleach, ammonia, and acidic cleaners like vinegar. However, despite claiming to be less toxic it can be harmful. Professional stone cleaning in Chicago will use safe, eco-friendly products and follow proper safety protocols to ensure a safe and healthy cleaning experience.
- Abrasive sponges: Do not use abrasive sponges or scouring pads, as they can scratch the surface of the marble. Instead, opt for soft, microfiber cloths or a non-abrasive sponge to clean the stained area.
- Hot pots and pans: Do not place hot pots and pans directly on marble surfaces, as the heat can cause damage to the stone. Use trivets or hot pads to protect the surface and create dull spots.
- Sharp objects: Avoid placing sharp objects on marble surfaces to prevent scratching. Sharp objects can damage the stone surface.
Following these tips and avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasive materials can help keep your marble surfaces looking beautiful and well-maintained. Alternatively, use gentle dish soap and a clean cloth.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, marble is a beautiful and luxurious natural stone that requires careful cleaning and maintenance to keep it looking its best. Proper cleaning and protection of marble surfaces can prevent damage and staining, and ensure that the marble maintains its beauty and value over time. As mentioned in this article, cleaning and protecting marble include:
- Using the right cleaning products and methods.
- Protecting the marble from acidic substances and scratches.
- Sealing the marble to protect it from stains.
Following these tips and best practices, you can keep your marble surfaces looking clean, beautiful, and well-maintained for years to come. Whether you have a marble countertop, floor, or another surface in your home, taking the time to care for your marble will ensure that it remains a stunning and valuable addition. However, cleaning marble can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, especially if you have a large area to cover alongside heavy stains. Hiring a stone cleaning Lisle technician can not only turn your dull and stained marble into a shiny looking surface but also save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
