How To Clean Marble In 3 Steps

How do you clean marble? This article contains tips and tricks to keep it in its best condition.

Not only is marble a gorgeous stone that can instantly brighten up any space, but it is very simple to keep clean. Following the proper care methods will help you get the most out of your marble.

It is important to keep in mind that marble is a soft stone, so it is prone to etching and staining, as well as scratching and cracking. The best way to prevent etching is to make sure acidic products do not come in contact with the marble. To prevent staining, the best tip is to blot and clean up any spills immediately.

Step 1: Understand How To Clean Marble

Use a mixture of warm water and a mild dish soap. Use a washcloth (microfiber is an excellent option) to clean the area. After cleaning the marble, rinse with water and dry with a new, dry cloth. Be sure to dry thoroughly, as this will help prevent water stains (as well as make your marble look shiny!) To clean marble that has food dried on, use a plastic scraper.

Step 2: Know What Not To Use On Marble:

Bleach, ammonia, vinegar, Windex, as they will damage the marble or the sealant. Avoid using abrasive pads as well.

Marble is susceptible to thermal shock, so avoid placing hot items on a cold surface and always use trivets. Be sure not to slide any items on top of marble that have the potential to cause scratches. Use coasters to help prevent spills and condensation.

Step 3: Understand How To Get Stains Out Of Marble

Getting stains out of marble can be done by mixing baking soda and water and scrubbing the area gently with a soft cloth. Rinse and dry. For stains that are trickier to get out, create a thick mixture of baking soda and water, and let it sit on the stain. Cover with plastic wrap and tape down the edges. After 24 hours, remove the plastic wrap and wait for the baking soda to dry. Then, gently scrape it off with a plastic scraper, and clean with a soft, damp cloth. Make sure to dry thoroughly. Remove water stains from marble by buffing the area with dry #0000 steel wool.

Sealing marble will help prevent stains from occurring – keep in mind that stains can still happen with sealed marble, however the chances will be far less likely, especially while following cleaning and maintenance steps. Marble should normally be sealed around once a year, but this can vary depending on use. Make sure that the sealer is non-toxic and safe for use when sealing an area where food is used.