Marble countertops offer timeless beauty, and white marble counters continue to be a top choice among homeowners. Its whiteness and natural veining patterns are truly a marvel of nature. For bakers, a marble countertop surface is the best for working with pastry or chocolate, since it is naturally cool. Marble does come with some pros and cons, and you can read more about them here. Remember marble is soft and porous and can scratch or etch, especially when it is exposed to something acidic. These acidic liquids can also leave indelible stains on the marble surfaces. Knowing how to properly prevent and clean these marks can greatly maintain the elegant surface.
Prevention and Keeping Marble Clean
Like the old saying says — “An ounce of PREVENTION is worth a pound of CURE.” It is always better to prevent than to save or repair. This is the case when it comes to marble surfaces. The best way to reduce or prevent stains and scratching, is to regularly apply a spray sealant (at least once a month). This will create a layer of protection between the wine or juice spills and allow time to clean it up before the acidic substance breaks down the base of the countertop. Even with the coating it is still best to clean-up the mess immediately, never leaving these splashes on the surface overnight.
Cleaning Products
Clean with a mild, phosphate-free biodegradable liquid dish-washing soap or powder or a stone soap. We keep a soapy solution in a spray bottle on hand. On large kitchen island counters, we recommend using a flat dust mop – the kind that has a removable pad you can wash and reuse. Never use vinegar, lemon juice, or bleach on marble. Always avoid the use of cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners, and tub and tile cleaners, which can cause etching. There will always be accidents and spills happening in the kitchen, and cleaning them quickly is best. For deep scratches or if unsure how to clean, we highly recommend you reach out to a professional marble restorer to polish out your countertops. Call us if you need a recommendation in Long Island, NY. 516-746-3435
