Caring for Marble Countertops, Vanity Tops - Grande Marble

Marble has a unique and timeless beauty that makes it a sought-after material for home décor and construction. Unlike other materials, marble is not uniform in color, texture, or pattern, which adds to its uniqueness and character. The natural variations and veins of the stone give it a distinct and one-of-a-kind look, making it a great choice for statement pieces like fireplaces, entryways, and kitchen countertops.

Another way to make your marble unique is to choose a specific type of marble with unique characteristics. There are over 100 different types of marble, each with its own unique look and qualities. Some popular types of marble include Carrara, Calacatta, and Statuario. Each type has its own distinct features such as vein patterns, color variations, and mineral deposits, making them stand out from one another.

In conclusion, taking care of your marble and choosing the right type for your home will ensure that it remains a unique and beautiful feature for years to come.

To preserve the beauty and durability of your marble, it is important to take a few precautions to protect it from damage. Here is a summarized list of tips to follow:

Use honed marble for flooring to reduce scratches.

• Avoid using polished marble in high traffic areas.

• Place non-slip mats or rugs at the entrance to reduce soiling.

• Wipe up spills immediately.

• Use coasters under glasses and bottles.

• Place hot items on mats or trivets.

• Follow a daily and periodic cleaning routine using clean mops and brooms.

• Avoid using old vacuum cleaners.

• Change mopping water frequently during cleaning.

• Rinse with clean, warm water and allow floors to dry before use.

• Follow directions on your cleaner and avoid mixing chemicals.

• Use abrasives only on honed marble and never on polished surfaces.

• Avoid using chemical cleaners, acids, grout cleaners, and tub or tile cleaners on marble.

• Do not use wax on marble as it can make it slippery.

• Inspect tiles regularly and correct flaws promptly.

• Do not use a mixture of ammonia and bleach to remove stains.

• Do not use hot water to clean spilled milk or blood as it makes the stain worse.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your marble stays in excellent condition and remains a beautiful feature in your home for many years to come.

Best Marble Cleaners

For optimal results, it is recommended to avoid using household cleaners with acidic properties on your marble. Instead, opt for neutral cleaners such as specialized stone soaps or soapless cleaners, which are gentle and safe for the surface. You can also use mild, phosphate-free, eco-friendly dishwashing liquids or powders, or vegetable oil based soaps with a neutral pH of 7, as long as you thoroughly rinse the soap residue after use.

Daily Cares for Marbles 

Floors

To keep your marble flooring looking its best, it is important to use the right cleaning method. For polished marble surfaces, use a soft brush for sweeping, and for textured surfaces, use a medium bristle brush. Vacuuming is also an option as long as your vacuum is in good condition, as using a worn out vacuum can damage the stone. Another effective and safe way to keep your floors clean is by dry mopping with a non-treated cloth.

Kitchen Counters

Granite is an ideal option for kitchen countertops due to its hygienic properties and ease of cleaning. It is also known for its high durability as a natural stone. If you opt for marble, honed marble is recommended, as it is easier to care for. Honed marble can be scrubbed with abrasives, bleach, and soap using a scouring pad without the worry of damage. It is important to rinse thoroughly and dry the surface with a soft cloth. Additionally, honed marble is less prone to showing etches as prominently as polished marble.

Bathrooms

It is important to remove any excess water immediately after use by using a squeegee. Hard water can be particularly damaging to stone, so it is recommended to clean the surface periodically with a neutral soap scum powder or a solution made by mixing half a cup of ammonia with one gallon of water. For hot tubs, a mild bleach solution in clear water can be used to remove algae or moss.

Exteriors

Maintaining cleanliness of steps, pathways, walkways, and garden decorations is important to keep them free of dirt. This requires routine sweeping and washing. If you plan to use marble for outdoor applications, it is essential to stay on top of regular maintenance such as sealing and cleaning. With proper care and attention, your steps and walkways can be the envy of your neighborhood, especially compared to those with plastic fencing and porches.

Periodic Care

Perform routine cleaning of your marble floors by washing them with clean, warm water and drying with a soft cloth. For deeper cleaning, use a suitable cleaner, rinse thoroughly and dry the floor twice a month to prevent graying and soil buildup. Regularly inspect exterior marble tiles for any damage caused by weather, pollutants, or moisture and clean as needed. To remove smoke and soot from your fireplace, consider using a specialized product designed specifically for this purpose. Consult your local stone dealer for more information and recommendations.