If there is a kind of rock that is closely associated with refined taste, that rock is definitely marble. Its colorful and variegated patterns endear it to homeowners and interior designers. It has also been used traditionally to create works of art that have stood the test of time. At present, however, many homeowners use it as an ideal material for countertops and kitchen islands.
But there is one thing people don’t love about marble, and it is its susceptibility to staining and etching. Since marble is made of calcium carbonate, which is highly reactive to acid, it readily stains and etches. Contact with acid then leaves dull dark rings or spots on the marble’s surface. Thankfully, there are marble experts who can give us simple tips on how to keep our marble surfaces smooth and stain-free. If you have marble at home that you need to clean, here are some succinct tips on how to do it:
- Use a Soft Damp Cloth or Smooth Sponge Soaked in Warm Water
Countertops and kitchen islands, for example, that have marble tops can easily etch and stain, especially if splashed with something acidic like lemon juice and tomato sauce. To clean these countertops and kitchen islands of stains and etching, you should use mild soap and warm water. Don’t use acidic cleaners or bleach on your marble, for they would only aggravate the staining problem. You can also wipe countertop surfaces with a smooth sponge with sudsy warm water to prevent abrasions, or you can use a damp cloth with warm water.
- Seal the Marble Surface
Prior to using your new countertops, make sure that the marble surface is sealed — sealing provides the marble with an additional layer of protection. The sealing process requires the use of clear resin that is basically invisible to the naked eye. Marble.com has a guide how to seal marble.
- Contact an Expert Stoneworker
If there is damage on the surface of your marble, don’t dilly-dally in visiting marble.com or calling an expert stoneworker. This expert stoneworker can perfectly handle problems like chipping, cracks, stains, dull patches, and abrasions.
Best Basic Solutions for Various Types of Stains
Stains are caused by various agents; they can be caused by oil, grease, cosmetics, and cooking oils. You can readily do away with stains by simply using a liquid cleanser, ammonia, or a household detergent. There are also organic stains caused by tea, coffee, and food. You can clean these stains by using a mixture of ammonia and 12% hydrogen peroxide. Paint stains can also be a problem; but you can readily wipe these stains using lacquer thinner. Lastly, there are rust stains which are quite difficult to remove. Well, you can use poultice to remove this type of stains. Additionally, if you want to know the best cleaning deals for your marble, here are five of the top cleaning products available on the market today:
- Black Diamond MCT QT Marble and Tile Floor Cleaner – this product is eco-friendly with fresh scent and safe pH balance
- Simple Green 18401 Stone Cleaner – a spray and wipe product, safe for kids and pets, but not recommended for floors
- Granite Gold Daily Cleaner for Marble – a spray and wipe product, safe for kids, but not recommended for floors
- ZEP Marble and Granite, and Quartz Cleaner – a spray and wipe product, safe for kid and pets, but not recommended for floors
- Sofix Stone Floor Cleaner – a pour or wipe product designed specifically for floors
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