10.09.2012
How to Maintain and Clean Marble
Marble is delicate and easily scratched or discolored. Marble is limestone, a soft stone not be be confused with granite. Because it is also porous it will be dulled and etched by acids. This includes vinegar, usually something safe to use for cleaning things around the home. Because marble is porous and likes to soak things up, it is prone to water stains or other spotting when items are placed on it such as cups or glasses, or by the results of uneven mopping or cleaning. Therefore to keep your marble surfaces looking good, more care and attention is required.
Protect marble counter tops with coasters, or felt cloth as a mat for counter items, and protect marble floors with matting and area rugs. Use furniture pads under furniture.
Clean spills or stains immediately, using a soft cloth or soft mop ( microfiber or terry cloths are good options), with a pH neutral cleaning solution or warm water. This is also good for daily maintenance of counter tops. For marble floors maintain with a dust mop or plain warm water if there are marks to get rid of. Don’t use vinegar or any other acidic cleaners, and don’t make the water too hot. If you are still left with a stain, use a proven commercial marble stain remover or apply a poultice made out of baking soda and water, and pat it down on the stain 1/2 inch thick letting it dry for 24 hours. Hopefully the stain will evaporate into the poultice and out of the marble. Repeat the process a second time if necessary.
For deeper or more thorough cleaning of marble, every 1 or 2 months, you can use a pH neutral dish soap or clean ammonia mixed with warm water. But dry off marble right after cleaning with terry cloth or paper towels. Because marble is porous you have to work quickly to make the job easier.
If your marble was not sealed when it was installed, this can be a good option to protect against staining and other damage. Sealers help to resist moisture. Sealers have to be reapplied, the number of years between applications depending on the type of sealer. For more information on sealing your marble, check with your local hardware store.
For more information on tile cleaning and maintenance call Ram @ 403-291-1051 and ask to speak to one of our tile maintenance representatives.
Ram Cleaning Services, Complete Cleaning and Maintenance Care serving Calgary and area since 1967
Tags: marble maintenance
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