Marble is a timeless stone that can elevate and transform any room in your home. This material is classic, works well in kitchens and bathrooms, and is known for its beauty. And, thanks to the varying color and design options, it is a versatile option for countertops. Marble is one of the most sought-after natural stones and many people find that marble is durable and long-lasting.
However, marble can also be somewhat fragile compared to other materials as it is susceptible to scratches, etching and staining. But the good news is that with a little care, marble countertops can continue to look amazing no matter how much they are used. Here are four tips for taking care of marble countertops.
Use Gentle Soaps for Cleaning
While it may seem difficult to clean marble without the use of abrasive cleaners, it’s not. Marble is easy to clean and maintain. Gentle soap and warm water are enough to get the job done. Cleaning a marble countertop is as simple as washing it down with a solution of water and soap, wiping with a wet, hot dish towel, and then drying the countertop with an absorbent towel.
Cleaning with gentle soap on a regular basis is enough to keep marble countertops looking great after everyday use. If you make a mess, immediately spot clean any spills in order to prevent staining. The longer a substance is left on top of the marble, the more likely it is to stain.
Avoid Using Acidic Products
Acid is the enemy of marble surfaces. Acidic substances can etch into the surface and leave the marble looking dull and lackluster. This is something to keep in mind when choosing cleaners for the countertop. Any type of acidic or abrasive cleaner, like bleach and vinegar, should be avoided, and you should never use harsh scrubbing pads.
Cleaners are not the only acidic substances you should keep away from your counters. Acidic foods, such as tomatoes, citrus, and other types of fruits, should also have limited contact with the countertop’s surface. Be sure to use cutting boards, bowls, and other methods of keeping the acid away from the marble when preparing food.
Wipe up Spills and Stains Immediately
Unfortunately, even with careful attention and regular cleaning, it’s still possible that your marble countertop will stain. Address these stains immediately. Stains from oils, such as cooking oil, can be removed with a gentle cleanser or a mild detergent. Organic stains, from food or liquids such as coffee and tea, can be removed with a small amount of soap and water or mild detergent.
While mild detergents, peroxide, and ammonia work well on most stains, some may need to be removed physically. Paint stains often need to be carefully removed with a razor. Water stains and water marks can be buffed out with steel wool. Be sure to remove stains before they become permanent fixtures on the countertop, so your marble countertops look great for years to come.
Be Sure to Seal Your Countertops
While there are plenty of ways to clean marble countertops and keep them looking great, an added layer of protection is often needed. A sealant can be a key part of taking care of marble countertops. Sealers can reduce staining on marble countertops as sealers act as a barrier between the marble and other substances. The layers give you a little more time to clean up spills before they stain.
Marble countertops can be sealed as often as needed, based on the countertop and the formula of the sealant you use. When water stops beading on the counter, it’s usually time to reseal.
Taking care of marble countertops is easier than you may think. They will look great as long as you avoid acidic cleaners, liquids and food. Countertops are an investment, and we understand the importance of having a functional countertop that allows you to use your kitchen without fear of staining, scratching, or chipping the counter. If you take precautions and clean regularly, marble is a great choice for countertops. It offers versatility, durability, and longevity, making it a top contender for kitchen countertops.
If you think marble countertops are the right choice for your home, we’re here to answer all your questions. Let the professionals at C & C Stonework’s help you decide which type of natural stone countertop will fit best with your lifestyle. For questions on maintaining your marble countertops, or selecting something new for a redesign, give us a call today, or visit our showroom at 6144 NC Highway 43S, Greenville, NC!