Marble is a gorgeous and durable natural stone, but it does take a little more care and maintenance than other countertop materials.

Its porous nature makes it more susceptible to stains and etching than most other stone surfaces. But don’t worry; there are simple tips you can use to keep your marble countertops clean and looking great.

Use a Mild, Soapy Solution

Marble countertops Butler PA are a beautiful addition to any home but require special care. They’re porous so that they can absorb stains from foods and liquids.

A soapy solution with warm water can help cut through grime and remove bacteria and dirt. It’s also a gentler option than harsh chemicals.

Keep a bottle of mild dish soap and a sponge or soft cloth nearby. These are perfect for cleaning marble counters and don’t contain abrasives that could scratch the surface.

Avoid vinegar and citrus cleaners, which can etch the surface and degrade the sealant. Instead, look for products formulated for marble and granite countertops that are plant-derived and safe.

Similarly, keep hair products, toothpaste, perfumes, colognes, nail products, creams, and lotions off the countertop. These substances can stain and etch the marble, leaving spots or dull areas.

Avoid Acidic Foods and Liquids

Acidic foods and drinks like lemons, limes, tomatoes, cucumbers, ketchup, oranges, and vinegar harm your marble countertops because they etch the stone. They also contribute to stains and abrasions.

Luckily, there are ways to keep your marble looking its best. The most important thing is to avoid ingesting acidic foods and liquids whenever possible.

Another tip is to avoid directly placing toiletry products like hair products, perfumes, toothpaste, nail products, and creams on your counters. Instead, store these items in decorative trays so they’re out of reach.

In addition to avoiding acidic foods and liquids, you should avoid placing metal objects on your marble countertop. Rust stains can be difficult to remove, but you can prevent them by safely covering your counter with a protective cover and storing your metal objects.

Dont Let Stain Linger

Regrettably, it’s still possible for your marble countertop to discolor even with careful attention and routine cleaning. These stains must be cleaned right away. Cooking oil stains can be eliminated with a mild cleaner or a few drops of ammonia. A modest amount of hydrogen peroxide or ammonia can remove organic stains from food or beverages like coffee and tea.

While most stains may be cleaned with ammonia, peroxide, and mild detergents, some may require manual removal. With a razor, paint spots must frequently be removed gently. Using steel wool, water stains and watermarks may be removed. To maintain the appearance of your marble countertops, clean stains as soon as they appear.

Seal It Regularly

Marble countertops are porous, so a little moisture can penetrate them and discolor the surface. That’s why it’s essential to seal them regularly.

Generally, most professionals recommend sealing natural stone counters every 6-12 months. However, this can vary depending on how much use the area sees and your household lifestyle.

To determine when to reseal, test the stone’s seal with a water test. Pour about 3 inches of water on several spots on the countertop and let it sit for 30 minutes. If a dark spot or ring forms in any spots, it’s time to reseal.

Apply a sealant to the surface of the counters and work it in evenly. Then, wait fifteen minutes before wiping it off.