Marble countertops are a luxurious and beautiful addition to any kitchen. However, without proper care, marble can stain and etch easily. Cleaning marble countertops regularly and effectively is key to preserving their beauty. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to clean marble countertops.

Supplies Needed

Cleaning marble countertops doesn’t require anything too sophisticated. Here are the basic supplies you’ll need:

Microfiber cloths
Soft sponge or non-abrasive scrub pad
pH-neutral stone cleaner or mild dish soap
Clean water
Sealant (optional)

Avoid using any abrasive cleaners or materials on marble, as they can cause scratches. It’s also best to use cleaning products specifically formulated for natural stone.

Cleaning Marble Countertops Routine Maintenance

Regular cleaning is the best way to keep marble countertops looking pristine. Here’s how to clean marble countertops on a routine basis:

1. Remove debris and wipe down

The first step is to remove any debris or dirt from the countertop. Wipe the surface down with a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust and other particles. This prevents abrasive dirt from scratching the stone during the cleaning process.

2. Wash with pH-neutral cleaner

Fill a spray bottle with a pH-neutral stone cleaner or mild dish soap diluted in warm water. Avoid using anything too acidic or alkaline as this can etch marble. Spray the solution directly onto the countertop and wipe clean with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.

Wash the entire surface thoroughly, making sure to get into the crevices and along the edges. Rinse any soapy residue off completely with clean water and buff dry with a cloth.

3. Re-seal if needed

For routine cleaning, re-sealing marble countertops every 1-2 years is usually sufficient. Properly sealing the stone helps prevent stains and etching. Use a stone sealant designed for countertops and apply according to the product instructions.

Buff off any excess sealer with a clean cloth. Avoid walking on the countertops for at least 12 hours while the new seal fully cures.

Dealing With Stains and Etch Marks

Even with proper sealing and care, stains and etching can still occur on marble countertops. Here’s how to tackle common problems:

Removing stains

For oil-based stains, dab a small amount of diluted dish soap directly on the stain and allow it to sit for 20-30 minutes. This helps break down the oil so the stain can be wiped away more easily.

For dried or stubborn stains, try making a poultice using a pH-neutral cleaner, flour, and a little bit of water. Spread the mixture over the stain about 1/4 inch thick and place plastic wrap on top. Allow the poultice to sit for 24 hours then scrape it off gently. This can help draw out deep-set staining from marble.

Always rinse the area thoroughly after stain removal and re-seal cleaned areas if needed.

Fixing etch marks

Etch marks occur when acids—like juices, vinegar or even cleaning products—eat away at the marble finish leaving a dull, light-colored spot.

To remove light etching, rub a damp cloth soaked in baking soda over the mark. Rinse and dry the area completely afterwards.

For deeper etching, you’ll need to call in a professional stone restoration company. They have specialized tools and compounds that can resurface and polish etched marble countertops.

Preventing future stains

The best stain prevention is sealing the marble properly and avoiding prolonged contact with staining substances. Immediately wipe up spills, splatters or other messes on the countertop.

Use cutting boards, trivets and coasters when placing food, pots or glasses on the marble. This prevents direct contact that could lead to etching or staining over time.

Deep Cleaning Marble Countertops

For a periodic deep clean, consider doing the following:

1. Wash with mild dish soap

Make a soap solution using a couple drops of dish soap and warm water. With a sponge or soft cloth, wash the entire marble surface. Let the soap sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing to help loosen up any built-up grime.

2. Disinfect with diluted hydrogen peroxide

After washing, spray the countertops with a 50/50 solution of hydrogen peroxide and water. This will help kill any lurking bacteria without causing etching. Allow to sit for 15 minutes before wiping dry with a clean cloth.

3. Rinse and re-seal

Rinse the marble thoroughly with clean water after cleaning. Once fully dry, apply a fresh coat of sealant if needed. Let the sealant cure fully before using the countertops again.

Marble Countertop Maintenance Tips

Avoid placing hot pans directly on marble. Use trivets and hot pads.
Don’t let spills sit. Wipe up messes quickly to prevent staining.
Clean up food debris after meal prep to prevent etching.
Use coasters under glasses and bottles.
Re-seal marble 1-2 times per year depending on usage.
For cleaning, stick to gentle pH-neutral cleaners only.
Don’t use vinegar, citrus, or harsh chemicals on marble.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I seal my marble countertops?

Sealing marble countertops every 1-2 years is recommended for routine maintenance. High traffic areas may need to be re-sealed more frequently. Always use a sealant specifically formulated for natural stone.

What is the best way to disinfect marble countertops?

Use a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution. Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water and wipe over the marble surface. Allow to sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing clean. This disinfects without bleaching or etching the stone.

What should I use to clean marble shower walls?

The same gentle cleaners recommended for countertops can be used on marble shower walls. Avoid anything too acidic. Make a solution of pH-neutral stone cleaner and wash walls with a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly and repeat sealing as needed.

Can I use bleach or ammonia on marble?

No, avoid bleach, ammonia, vinegar, and other harsh chemicals. The acids in these cleaners will etch and damage marble. Stick to mild dish soap or specialty stone cleaners only.

How can I get rid of hard water marks on my marble?

Hard water deposits can be removed by rubbing the marks with a cloth dampened with lemon juice. Rinse the marble thoroughly afterwards and dry completely. Re-seal cleaned areas to prevent future hard water stains.

Conclusion

Caring for marble countertops properly helps preserve their elegant beauty and minimizes staining or etching. By using the right techniques and avoiding harsh chemicals, you can keep marble looking like new for many years. Be sure to seal the counters routinely for added protection. With regular cleaning and maintenance, your marble countertops will stay gorgeous.

How to Clean Marble Countertops