Marble is one of the most beautiful and classic choices for a kitchen countertop. Whether you are eying a new marble countertop or already have one in your home, we've compiled a list of the best practices that will help you keep your marble countertop stunning.
The Most Common Threats to Marble
Marble is a soft and sensitive stone. Even when sealed properly, it can be prone to stains and scratches, as well as etching, dull spots that are formed when marble comes into contact with certain substances. Any substance with high acidity levels, such as citrus fruit, vinegar, juice, coffee, and wine, pose a threat to the surface of your marble and should be avoided.
3 Ways to Keep Your Marble Safe
- 1. Preventative Measures
The most effective (and surprisingly simple) way to protect your marble countertops is to take preventative measures. Be diligent about using coasters, cutting boards, and placemats. Make sure to set citrus fruits, tomatoes, and any foods with high acidity in a bowl or on a plate before setting it on the counter. When possible, avoid splashing vinegar, wine, or oil onto the marble. We are all human, of course, so if you do spill anything onto the countertop, just make sure to clean it up immediately.
- 2. Daily Cleaning
It's important to clean your marble countertop regularly, often multiple times a day, depending on how often you're using it. If you're just doing regular cleaning, a soft cloth and warm water will do the trick. However, if you're cleaning up a spill or just want to be a little more thorough, make sure to choose a mild, natural soap with a neutral pH (we all love a good lemon-scented or vinegar-based cleaner, but your marble won't). We also recommend keeping a good stone cleaner on hand, which will come in handy if a spill goes unnoticed for a little too long and starts to set in. Ask your local hardware store for their best stone cleaners and check the label to make sure the cleaner is designed specifically for stone. If you cannot get a stain out with soap or a stone cleaner, try poultice paste. Though it requires more time and effort, it is a tried-and-true stain removal method that might prove more successful.
Additionally, make sure to keep a specific sponge or cloth reserved for use on your countertop, especially if you use cleaners with high acidity to clean other surfaces in your home. It could be detrimental if you accidentally use the cloth you sprayed with a lemon cleaning solution for your bathroom vanity on your marble countertop an hour later. And when you're finished cleaning the surface of the marble, make sure to use a separate, clean cloth to wipe the counter dry.
- 3. Long-term Cleaning
To round out your marble protection routine, make sure to keep your countertop sealed. We are happy to give you a referral to some of the area’s top local fabricators.
You can also try to seal marble countertops yourself. Ask your local hardware store for their recommended sealant and read the label thoroughly before purchasing. Sealant products range from recommending use every 6 months to every decade. However, it is safest to seal your countertop every 6 months to 1 year, to ensure your marble remains in its best condition for as long as possible.
To learn more about marble countertops, visit our website or contact us today.