How to Clean Marble

Marble is another high-end building material. Here's how to clean marble so it retains its regal look.

Marble is an absolutely beautiful stone, used in many homes for flooring and counter tops, as well as many other decorative touches. It comes in a variety of colors. However, marble does have its downfalls. While it is stone, it is also porous, and therefore easily stained. It is also easily dulled, or etched. Many people think that cleaning marble is a hassle. This is simply not true.

The first step to take in maintaining a marble surface is to seal it. Home kits are available for sealing marble, but it is recommended to use a professional service. It's not as cost effective, but the results are generally much more satisfying. Once the marble is properly sealed, that will do much to prevent staining.

Marble surfaces should be cleaned and polished regularly. One of the most common conceptions with marble is that it is okay to use "all purpose" cleaning solutions. This is not true, and can be very damaging to marble surfaces, dulling them considerably. To clean a marble surface or floor, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or mop. Be sure to dry the marble, and then polish it.

There are specially formulated solutions available to clean and polish marble surfaces. Internet search engines will pull up many "homemade" marble polishes and cleaners. These are generally either not safe for marble, or very caustic and dangerous to handle. Marble polishes are very easy to use. Simply apply the polish, using a soft cloth or sponge, buff, and remove the excess.

Even with sealed marble, stains can still occur. It's important to clean up spills quickly. Coffee, tea, and oils are particularly detrimental to marble surfaces. If, after blotting up an oil-based spill, discoloration is still present, corn starch or whiting powder should be applied to the marble and allowed to sit for about one hour. This soaks up any oils that have permeated the surface. Use a brush to remove the powder. Repeat that step as needed until all oils have been removed, then polish and buff.

Electric buffers can be used for larger areas, such as marble floors. Use a professional grade floor buffer. Floor buffers are available for rent. The same rules apply as for counters and tables.

How to Clean Marble -- Summary

Many preventative measures can be taken to protect marble surfaces. For marble tabletops, be sure to use coasters to prevent moisture rings. Rugs placed over high-traffic areas of marble floors will do much to prevent dulling, etching, and wear. Most of all, be sure to clean and polish regularly.

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