Tips for Cleaning Marble and Granite Countertops

Posted by John White on July 25th, 2017

There's just something extra elegant about a kitchen with granite and marble countertops. The unique patterns in the stone add visual interest to the space and provide a durable work surface. But if you want to maintain the stone's attractive appearance, you must care for them in the right way. These five tips can help you clean and maintain your marble and granite surfaces, so they always look like new.

Keep a consistent cleaning schedule

One of the best ways to avoid scratching and tarnishing of marble is to ensure the surface is regularly cleaned. It is often the rubbing of sand and dirt particles on marble that causes it tarnish. Additionally, marble tends to be very susceptible to water spots, so it's crucial to wipe down a marble surface in the instance it becomes wet.

Seal It

Granite countertops aren't as porous as marble or other materials, but they can soak up moisture and become weakened over time. To keep yours in good shape, make sure that they're sealed. Purchase a granite sealant from your local hardware store or home improvement center, and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Typically, you'll need to reseal every three to five years. If you're not sure whether you need to reseal, drip a little water on the surface and if it beads up, you can wait. If the stone absorbs the water, it's time to reseal.

Take care of spills before they stain

Acidic substances, such as soft drinks, wine, and juice, can wreak havoc on a marble surface if they're not cleaned-up immediately. It only takes a few minutes for the acid of such liquids to start penetrating marble, so it's best to handle such spills promptly. When cleaning-up stain-inducing spills, avoid applying a rubbing or wiping motion. Instead, blot and absorb as much of the liquid as you can with a soft cloth or towel. If an oil-based liquid spills on marble, an effective mixture is powder, rubbing alcohol, and warm water.

Use the Right Cleanser

Your countertops may be durable, but that doesn't mean you can use any cleanser on the surface. Harsh abrasive cleansers can damage the stone and ruin its seal. Avoid acidic formulas, such as those containing lemon, lime, or vinegar, as well as harsh chemicals like ammonia, bleach, and Windex. Instead, opt for gentle products, such as mild dishwashing detergent or a pH-balanced cleanser meant specifically for stone.

Avoid sitting or placing heavy objects on marble

Always keep in mind that marble is much more fragile than it appears. The metal of the pots and pans, or even on jeans and pants, can easily scratch marble surfaces if not careful. Invest in some quality coasters, placemats, and hot pads to ensure heavy and hot objects never make contact with your marble surface. Also think about setting some ground-rules if you have children who might want to plop a seat on your marble countertop. The damage induced by deep scratches and chipping is some of the most difficult to repair.

Marble might seem like a strong natural stone, however it's rather soft compared to other alternatives. By educating yourself on the proper marble care procedures, and using the right cleaning products, you can make your marble shine like new for many years to come.

About the Author:

Prince Wilson owns and runs a marble and granite store in Findlay Ohio. He has several years of experience working with different types for stones for different needs and he enjoys Blogging in his free time to help others bring their home to life.