Marble Maintenance

The durability of marble often leads to neglect in its care, forgetting that its porous nature can make it susceptible to some of the most common household substances and stains that tend to form upon contact with easily absorbable liquids.

While marble surfaces are indeed highly resilient, they are not indestructible as commonly believed. Knowing how to properly care for and maintain them is essential to preserve their beauty. Just a few simple daily precautions can help safeguard this precious material.

Daily Cleaning

Daily cleaning of marble surfaces requires no special attention or maintenance. Simply use a soft, damp sponge and lukewarm water; if needed, mild soap can be used to remove dirt more easily. After cleaning, the surface can be dried with a soft cloth, preferably chamois.

For tougher stains, a mixture of hot water and baking soda can be used to create a paste for removing dirt. It’s important not to use abrasive cleaning products, especially those containing lime-scale removers or bleach, as they could dull the surface.

Stain Removal from Marble

Some substances are hazardous to marble surfaces; in the kitchen, for instance, caution must be taken with acidic products that risk corroding and dulling the marble, such as vinegar, lemon, cola, and tomato sauce. Oil-based agents (whether food or cosmetic in nature) are also troublesome for marble countertops, as they tend to be quickly absorbed. However, there are remedies for this situation.

To remove an oily stain from a marble surface, simply dampen the affected area with water and sprinkle powdered detergent over it. Cover with a glass and let it sit for several hours, or even a full day if necessary. Then, clean with a damp microfiber cloth and dry; during this time, the substance will be reabsorbed and removed from the surface. An effective alternative to detergent is potato starch, which works in a similar manner. This treatment can be repeated as needed until the desired result is achieved.

Cleaning Yellowed Marble

Over time, especially lighter-toned marble undergoes an aging process that may lead to yellowing. This issue can be addressed by using Marseille soap, a remarkable product for restoring surface brilliance. Again, simply scrub the surface with a sponge soaked in a solution of hot water and Marseille soap; then rinse and dry.

Maintenance

Occasionally, more thorough interventions are advisable to maintain the natural beauty of marble, although there’s no need for these treatments to be carried out within a set timeframe. If the marble surface becomes worn, treatments such as smoothing and polishing can be performed by industry professionals using specific products and equipment.

For materials exhibiting holes, fractures, and cavities, marble can be treated with putties or fillers. For any further information on marble cleaning and maintenance, feel free to give us a call or send us an email.