Marble, with its distinctive luster and timeless elegance, graces many homes as countertops, flooring, and decorative features. However, the beauty of marble comes with a requirement for careful maintenance due to its porous nature and susceptibility to damage. Using the wrong cleaning products or techniques can easily mar its surface.
The professionals delivering home cleaning services across Alleman already know this, but you should also learn how to preserve your beautiful marble surfaces. This guide offers essential tips on how to clean marble effectively and keep it looking its best.
Cleaning marble effectively while preserving its integrity involves using gentle, non-abrasive materials and pH-neutral solutions. Here is a detailed guide to the best practices for taking care of marble:
A safe and effective solution for marble is a mild, pH-neutral soap mixed with warm water. Harsh chemicals or acidic solutions can damage marble, so it’s important to choose a gentle soap. Dilute a small amount of the soap in a bucket of warm water to create a sudsy solution.
To apply the solution, use a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid using rough materials or scrubbing brushes that could scratch the marble surface. Microfiber cloths are particularly suitable for this purpose because they are gentle on the marble and do not leave lint or streaks behind.
After gently wiping down the marble with the soapy solution, it is crucial to rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water. This step removes any soap residue that could attract dirt and grime, potentially leading to staining or dulling of the marble's finish.
Immediately after rinsing, dry the marble surface with a soft cloth. This prevents water spots, which can mar the appearance of marble. Ensure that the cloth is highly absorbent to avoid leaving moisture, which could penetrate and damage the stone.
To keep marble looking its best, it’s essential to wipe it down regularly before stains have a chance to set. For everyday spills, quick wiping with a damp cloth can prevent staining. Additionally, keeping coasters under beverages and using trays or mats under cosmetic products in bathrooms can help prevent etching and staining from acidic substances.
Certain chemicals are particularly harmful to marble and must be avoided to preserve the stone's natural beauty and integrity:
Vinegar, lemon juice, and other acidic solutions are a definite no for marble as they can etch the surface, leaving dull, discolored marks.
Any solution containing abrasive substances, even mild ones, can scratch and damage the marble surface, leading to a dulled appearance.
Strong alkaline solutions such as bleach and ammonia can break down the sealant on marble, increasing its vulnerability to staining and etching.
Many household solutions that are formulated for general use contain chemicals that are too harsh for marble. These can degrade the finish and discolor the stone. Always read labels carefully and only use products that are specifically marked as safe for use on natural stone.
If you’re not confident in your ability to care for marble, or if you simply want to ensure the best results, consider hiring phClean. Our dedicated technicians use specialized products and techniques to take care of marble without damaging it so that your investment remains as impressive as the day it was installed. You can count on us to make your home sparkle from top to bottom. Our technicians make it a point to be kind, respectful, and dedicated to your satisfaction at all times. They can also share some of their professional secrets with you, like how to keep your home free of pet hair, how to get that streak-free shine on your windows or what to do to make your upholstery spotless.
Whether you live close to the Heart of Iowa Nature Trail or in the middle of Alleman, our techs will be on time for their appointment. Contact us today to book your appointment and learn how we can help!