The Golden Rules of Marble Maintenance
Marbles are primarily made of the chemical calcium carbonate, which reacts immediately to acidic liquids and abrasives. Therefore, protecting the marble from the spills and acidic liquids is to clean the marble using gentle cleaning agents with pH-neutral cleaners. In this article we walk you through the steps to maintain marble and clean marble to keep its shine forever.
1. Daily Care is Crucial (The “Soft Touch” Rule)
- Dust Daily: Always use a soft microfiber cloth to gently sweep the dust off the marble surface. The sand, dirt, and grit act as tiny abrasives. This can be prevented by daily cleaning with a soft cloth that prevents scratches and dulls the surface over time.
- Wipe Up Spills Immediately: Marbles are highly porous in nature and tend to absorb liquids quickly; therefore, the stains or etching or dull spots caused due to acid must be wiped with a soft cloth to avoid absorption of liquid into the marble surface. The acidic substances such as citrus juices, coffee, and wine are the biggest culprits and must be cleaned immediately.
- Use Protection: Use coasters under glassware and trivets under hot cookware. For marble floors, place rugs in high-traffic areas and pads under the legs of all furniture.
2. Routine Cleaning: The Right Products and Tools
When it comes to cleaning marble, you should be using only gentle and pH-neutral cleaners.
| What to Use | Why | What to NEVER Use | Why |
| Warm water and a mild, pH-neutral dish soap (diluted) | Safe, effective for daily grime, and won’t strip the sealant. | Vinegar, Lemon Juice, Bleach, Ammonia | Highly acidic or alkaline—they will etch (dull) the surface. |
| Commercial marble/natural stone cleaner | Specifically formulated to be pH-neutral and safe for your stone. | Abrasive cleaners (e.g., scouring powders, cream cleaners) | Contain fine grit that will scratch and dull the polish. |
| Soft microfiber cloths or a chamois | Non-abrasive materials that won’t scratch the delicate finish. | Abrasive pads, Brushes with hard bristles, Steel wool | Will create scratches, dulling the surface and requiring professional restoration. |
The Cleaning Method:
- Mix a few drops of mild, pH-neutral dish soap in the bucket of water to wipe the marble surface.
- Always use a soft, damp cloth or mop to gently wipe the surface.
- Rinse the surface with a second cloth or mop dipped in plain, clean water to remove any soap residue.
- Crucial Step: Always dry the cloth and use a clean, soft cloth to buff and dry the marble immediately. Leaving standing water can lead to mineral deposits; therefore, do not let the water stand on the surface of marble.
3. Stain and Scratch Removal (The Troubleshooting Guide)
It is recommended to clean the stains quickly. A thick paste of poultice that can remove the stains is the best solution for stains.
| Stain Type | Recommended Treatment |
| Organic Stains (Coffee, Tea, Wine, Food, Urine) | Apply a paste of hydrogen peroxide (12%) mixed with water or baking soda. Cover with plastic wrap and let it sit for 24 hours. |
| Oil-Based Stains (Cooking oil, Grease, Makeup) | Sprinkle with an absorbent powder like cornstarch or a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit for several hours to overnight to absorb the oil. |
| Etching (Dull, light-colored spots from acid) | Minor etching can sometimes be gently buffed out with a marble polishing powder and a soft, damp cloth. For deep etching, consult a professional. |
| Water Spots/Rings | Gently rub the area with a soft cloth dampened with a paste of baking soda and water. Wipe dry immediately. |
4. Sealing and Polishing for Long-Term Shine
- Seal Regularly: Marble must be sealed regularly to reduce the porosity and protect the surface from stains. If the area is high traffic, then resealing is required every 6 to 12 months; penetrating the sealer is important.
- Professional Polishing: If the marble looks dull or gets scratched or etched despite efforts, a professional stone restorer can do the polishing of the surface and completely restore the original shine.
Conclusion
Marble is a magnificent, resilient stone that can last a lifetime, but it is not a low-maintenance material. Its perpetual shine is earned through diligent daily protection, the use of pH-neutral cleaners, and immediate attention to spills. By following the “soft touch” rule—avoiding acids and abrasives while regularly sealing the surface. Ensure your marble remains a stunning and luxurious feature in your home for decades to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a steam mop on my marble floor?
A: It is generally advised to avoid steam mops on marble. The heat and pressurized steam can potentially damage the stone’s sealant and the subfloor beneath the tiles. Stick to a damp, soft mop and a pH-neutral cleaner.
Q: How do I know if my marble needs to be sealed?
A: Perform a quick water test. Sprinkle a few drops of water on the marble surface. If the water beads up, the seal is good. If the water soaks into the stone and creates a dark spot within a minute, it’s time to reseal.
Q: What is “etching” and how is it different from a scratch?
A: Etching is a chemical reaction. Acidic substances dissolve the calcium carbonate in the marble, creating a dull, rough, or lighter-colored spot. A scratch is physical damage from a sharp or abrasive object. Etching is more common and often more noticeable than minor scratches.
