How to Maintain Marble Countertops
On August 25, 2022 by Walter PowellThere are a few important things to consider when caring for marble countertops. While they typically come sealed, years of gentle use can wear down the protective layer. Regular resealing can prevent permanent etching and staining and help maintain their pristine appearance. Keep the following tips in mind:
Avoid Products That Contain Acid
To maintain your marble countertops, you should not use acidic cleaning solutions. Though marble is a durable material, it requires special attention when cleaning. Acidic cleaners can damage the marble’s surface, making it prone to scratches, pitting, and cracking. In addition, because marble is softer than granite, it may show more stains and scratches and lose its shine if you use acidic products.
To clean your marble countertops Butler, PA, use a sponge or spray bottle filled with warm, soapy water. For more severe stains, use hydrogen peroxide solution or store-bought cleaners. If these solutions don’t work, use marble polishing powder. Marble polishing powder is ideal for removing minor etchings and scratches. This countertop material will stay looking beautiful for decades if cared for properly.
Sealing Protects Against Stains
Cleaning a marble countertop is difficult, but there are steps you can take to make it as squeaky clean as possible:
- You must identify any stain as soon as possible and apply the appropriate chemical or poultice to remove it.
- Once the stain is gone, apply a sealant paste to protect your marble countertop.
- Follow the directions for your specific marble cleaner to avoid damaging the surface.
If you choose a natural stone sealant, rub it into the marble with a soft cloth. It should be applied in three-foot sections and worked in before it dries. Next, use a lint-free cloth to buff the sealant into the marble. The buffing motion should show that it has absorbed the sealant.
Preventing Permanent Etching
If you consider installing marble countertops in your home, you might wonder how to prevent permanent etching. While sealing your marble countertop is crucial, sealers aren’t enough to prevent marble stains. It would help if you cleaned your marble immediately after any spill or stain. Fortunately, sealing allows your marble counters more time to mop before staining.
Protect your marble counters from etching by storing acidic items out of reach of the countertop. Acid and marble do not mix well, and any acid that comes into contact will etch the stone. Fortunately, there are several ways to protect marble counters from etching.
Cleaning Products Can Cause Irreparable Damage
Despite its beauty, marble countertops are highly vulnerable to damage from cleaning products. Often, everyday household cleaners contain synthetic and organic chemicals, solvents, pigments, and other compounds that will dull the marble surface and create stains and etching. Moreover, green and red all-purpose cleaners often contain dyes that can permanently stain the surface of the marble. Hence, you should always avoid cleaning your marble countertops with household products.
Never use generic cleaning products such as glass cleaners or mold removal sprays to avoid damaging your marble worktops. Although these products are perfectly safe for various stone surfaces, you should avoid using them on marble. Likewise, while natural cleaning agents such as lemon juice and baking soda are harmless for other types of stone, they are likely to damage marble severely. Thus, if you plan to use them on your marble countertops, you should ensure that you have the appropriate amount of baking soda and water.
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