Marble tops are loved for their classic looks and elegance. Not only do marble tops instantly transform any bathroom or kitchen into a luxurious area, but they also add value to the home over time. Because it is a soft and porous stone, marble requires special care to maintain its shine and remain stain-free.
With an effective and regular maintenance program, you can keep your marble tops looking great for years without losing the natural beauty of your marble counters. In addition to knowing how to clean, seal, and protect marble surfaces, homeowners must also know why marble countertops need special care.
Understanding Why Marble Needs Special Care
Marble may be glossy and look well made, but it is very susceptible to getting damaged by acidic spills and splashes. If you spill lemon juice, tomato sauce, red wine, vinegar, coffee, etc., on marble tops, these things will eventually etch or dull the surface. Because of the porous nature of marble, liquid can get inside the stone over time and stain the surface. This is why it is important to have a proper cleaning and sealing routine in place.
Homeowners who understand the characteristics of marble are more likely to recognize the need to care for their marble properly and to prevent any damage from occurring. With proper and mindful care and regular daily maintenance, your marble counters will remain radiant, beautiful, and shiny for years to come, like the day they were installed.
Daily Cleaning for Healthy Marble Surfaces
The primary method in caring for your marble is through daily cleaning, particularly in high-traffic areas, i.e., kitchens and bathrooms. To perform daily cleanings, either use warm water and a drop or two of mild dish soap or utilize one of many pH-neutral cleaners available online.
Do not use harsh chemicals or acidic products (like vinegar and bleach) on your marble, as they will both damage the finish of your marble. When cleaning your countertops, be sure to wipe them with a soft microfiber cloth, and do not forcefully scrub them to maintain the shine and avoid scratching them.
In addition, by forming a habit of wiping up spills immediately, you could greatly reduce any possibilities of long-term damage to your marble.
The Importance of Sealing Marble Countertops
The most effective way to reduce the chance of staining your marble is to seal it. Because marble is naturally porous, the act of sealing rather than penetrating the marble allows liquids less opportunity to be absorbed into the stone.
The frequency of having to reseal your countertops typically depends upon the amount of traffic the area receives; however, it is recommended to reseal your countertops every 6 to 12 months. In the case of homes that are extremely busy with large families or with large amounts of cooking, resealing may be required as frequently as every 3 months. To check if your countertop is due for resealing, simply sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface; if it beads temporarily and is absorbed after a few moments, you will need to reseal it.
Preventing Stains with Smart Habits
The use of good habits in everyday activities can prevent many marble countertop stains. For instance, placing coasters under glasses and mugs (especially juice, coffee, and wine) prevents accidental rings and stains. Cutting boards also protect countertops from scratches and acid spills while being used for food preparation.
In the bathroom, items such as makeup, perfume, nail polish remover, and lotions should not be placed directly on the marble surface, as they can discolor or weaken the marble finish. Keeping the countertop dry also protects the marble, because marble doesn’t like standing water, so elevating the countertop after washing dishes or when using sinks helps maintain the marble finish.
How to Handle Stains If They Happen
Even if you maintain your marble countertop properly, it is still possible to accidentally stain it; however, if you attend to stains quickly after they occur, you will have much better luck removing them.
Organic stains from foods or drinks may usually be removed with a mixture of baking soda and water, which you place on the stain, forming a paste that gently lifts the stain. The most important thing to remember is not to scrub too hard. Over-scrubbing can dull your finish. If you have an oil-based stain, it may take the use of a stone-specific product to remove it.
Protecting Marble from Heat and Scratches
Marble has the potential to absorb moisture, so care must be taken to prevent it from becoming wet or damaged. Never place hot items directly on a marble counter without using a trivet or a heat-resistant pad, as this will cause thermal shock to your stone.
Scratches will occur on a marble surface when heavy or sharp articles are dragged along it, which should be avoided. While marble has a high degree of durability, the finish of the surface will deteriorate if it experiences frequent friction. It is important to protect the surface of your marble from wear and tear by using cutting boards, silicone mats, and soft cloths when handling items daily. These simple practices will keep your marble counters polished and looking new for many years to come.
Polishing and Professional Care for Long-Lasting Shine
Although it is possible to keep your marble countertops looking shiny through daily care, having marble countertops polished by a professional can provide a much longer period of time for maintaining their brightness and luster.
Over time, the surface of a marble countertop will begin to lose its luster, and tiny scratches may develop. Professional polishing will restore the original shine and smooth over all flaws. Professional polishing service is very useful for homes where both kitchens and bathrooms are used on a daily basis.
By having your marble countertops polished on a yearly basis, you will be able to maintain the highest quality of your countertops for as long as you maintain the countertops.
Enjoying the Beauty of Marble for a Lifetime
A marble countertop is more than just a countertop; it’s also an investment. It adds elegance, beauty, and value to your house.
When you know how to care for your marble, including cleaning, sealing, and protecting against stains and scratches, it is easy and stress-free. Homeowners with regular care of their countertops can enjoy the luxury and lasting beauty of marble for many years.
Marble is warm and inviting, whether you are cooking a meal, entertaining guests, or spending time in a relaxing bathroom setting. Marble’s unique patterns and luster are what make it so special, so if you want a countertop to stay gorgeous for a lifetime, visit Kowalski Granite & Quartz in West Michigan. We have over 200 full slabs of marble, granite, quartz, and many recycled materials to choose from, all displayed in more than 80 beautiful colors. Stop in and see for yourself, and let our experienced staff assist you in finding your ideal stone countertop.