Your Complete Guide to Marble Countertop Cleaning and Care

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Jordan Blake
how to clean marble countertops
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Marble countertops are beautiful and timeless pieces of furniture. The smoothness and softness of the stone draw the eyes in an opening of elegance. Whether the counter is in the kitchen or the bath, the classic colors of marble add rich beauty to any home.

While marble is wonderful, it does entail additional vigilance. Marble is a soft stone that can be scratched, stained, and lose its shine if not cleaned properly. Therefore, it is essential to know the right method to clean marble countertops and how to avoid damaging them.

In this comprehensive guide, you will learn everything you need to know: how to clean marble countertops, how to remove stains, the right products to use, and how to maintain your surfaces. Not only will this simple yet useful guide help you take care of your marble, but it will also allow you to appreciate it for many years to come.

Why Marble Needs Unique Cleaning

Why Marble Needs Unique Cleaning

Clean marble kitchen countertops need special care because it is natural stone, which can be easily damaged. Marble is a soft surface made of calcium carbonate and is not as tough as composite materials. That’s why the specific process is so crucial.

Marble is also extremely porous. It absorbs liquids quickly, which leads to stains. Stains accrue from spilled drinks, oil spills, and even footprints can leave marks if not wiped immediately. That’s why maintaining clean marble countertops needs special attention.

Scratches in marble also occur very easily. If you use rough sponges or harsh spray cleaners on the marble surface, you may end up scratching it. These scratches can seem small and harmless at first, but can also dull the marble over time.

To protect your counters, always use a cleaner specifically designed for marble countertop surfaces. Traditional cleaners could also be extremely strong because they often contain either acidic ingredients or basic ingredients. A pH-neutral cleaner would be one of the best cleaners to maintain the smooth and shiny finish of your marble surface.

Daily Cleaning Tips for Marble Counters

  • Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down your marble daily.
  • Use warm water and a small amount of gentle dish soap to wipe down the surface.
  • Avoid cleaners such as vinegar, bleach, or anything acidic that can eat away at the surface.
  • Use a soft towel to gently dry the surface so water doesn’t leave marks on the marble.
  • It’s also best to wipe up spills right away to avoid soaking in.
  • Use coasters and mats under cups, bottles, and dishes.
  • Purchase the best marble countertop cleaner that is safe and made for stone.
  • Never use any scrubbing pads or brushes, as they will scratch your marble.
  • Clean using small circles with a moderate amount of pressure on every wipe.
  • If you do this daily, your clean marble countertops will gain a new look.

Removing Stain from Marble

Removing Stain from Marble

Marble stains relatively easily, but you can clean it without harming it. Below are some examples of stains and how to take care of them, and keep your clean marble countertops.

How to Get Stain Out of Marble Safely

When trying to get stain out of marble, always use soft materials and products. Never scrub too hard or use highly aggressive cleaning products. This helps keep the surface safe and stops it from getting scratched or losing its shine.

Types of Marble Stains and Solutions

Marble stains can come from many sources, like food, water, or oil. Knowing the type of stain helps you clean it the right way.

Oil Stains:  How to Remove Them

Sprinkle baking soda over the stain, and ultimate result with a few drops of water to make a paste. Allow the paste to set for 24 hours and rinse off, and clean.

Wine and Coffee Stains: How to Remove Them 

Use a combination of hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of mild dish soap. Dab the mixture over the stain using a soft cloth. Rinse the area well and dry.

Water Stains: How to Remove Marble Water Stains

For marble water stains, try using a soft cloth to buff with no pressure. If the spots aren’t removed, apply a small amount of marble polishing powder; alternatively, use a damp cloth with a baking soda paste to rub lightly and rinse when finished. Make sure to dry the area completely.

The Role of Sealants in Marble Care

A sealant for marble countertops is one of the best ways to protect your marble from stains and damage. Marble has tiny holes that let it soak up liquids easily because it’s a porous stone. A good sealant will create a barrier that helps protect against spills and prevent them from soaking in. 

Sealing your marble countertops every 6 to 12 months is an action you should take based on your usage. In addition to protecting the marble, sealing will help keep your countertops looking shiny, clean and will help with the maintenance of the surface in the long term.

How to Clean Bathroom Marble Tiles

How to Clean Bathroom Marble Tiles

Knowing how to clean bathroom marble tiles is important because soap, water, and dirt can build up fast. When cleaning, use a soft cloth or a soft mop, only warm water, and a very small amount of mild dish soap. 

Avoid anything strong or one with a strong scrubbing surface, even though it may look shiny, you could scratch the marble. Drying the tiles after cleaning helps prevent water spots and keeps them shiny. Cleaning regularly helps the bathroom countertops look smooth for you.

Costs and Local Care

  • The cost of a marble countertop usually ranges between $40 and $150 per square foot, based on the marble’s type and thickness.
  • Additional costs may include cutting, edge design, and installation.
  • Resealing and polishing can add to the long-run maintenance costs.
  • If you are located in Kentucky, check out some of the marble countertops in Louisville, KY, suppliers.
  • Local experts can help you decide on the right marble and care products depending on your needs.

Excited to bring the beauty and durability of marble into your home? Anatolia Granite offers top-quality marble countertops, expert installation, and helpful advice on how to care for them. Whether you need kitchen counters, bath countertops, or tile care tips, our team is here to help.

Contact Anatolia Granite today to get started on your dream space with stunning, long-lasting marble!

Conclusion

Taking care of your marble surfaces can be simple and easy. With the right daily habits, gentle tools, and safe products, you can keep your marble looking amazing and new for many years. From quickly wiping up spills to using a good sealant on marble countertops, every step you take to protect them is worthwhile. 

Also, be sure to use the best cleaner for marble countertops so you don’t damage the surface and can keep it shiny too. If you take daily care of your marble countertops, they will be kept clean, bright, and beautiful every day.

FAQs

What is the best thing to clean marble countertops with?
A soft cloth and a mix of warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap work best.

Is Dawn dish soap safe on marble?
Yes, Dawn is safe if used in small amounts and rinsed off well.

Is it OK to use Clorox wipes on marble?
No, Clorox wipes can damage marble because they are too harsh.

How do I get my marble countertop to shine again?
Wipe with a marble-safe polish or buff gently with a soft cloth.