Have you ever heard that marble is a delicate material that is hard to maintain? Many people believe that marble is only for grand, formal spaces and not for everyday use. As a seasoned expert, I can tell you that this is one of the biggest myths about this beautiful stone.
With proper marble care, this natural stone can stay stunning for a lifetime. You do not need to be a professional to keep your marble looking its best. A few simple habits and the right products make all the difference.
The Truth About Marble: Porosity and Acidity
The first step in proper marble care is to understand the stone’s nature. Marble is a porous material, which means it has tiny holes. It is also made of calcium carbonate, which reacts with acids.
These two facts are why you must choose the right cleaning products and act quickly on spills. A little knowledge about how marble works can help you avoid common mistakes. You can learn more about this by reading our article on choosing marble mistakes.
Myth 1: Marble is Too Fragile for a Kitchen
This is a common misconception. While marble can be softer than granite, it is a durable material that stands up well to daily use. The key is to be mindful of its properties.
Many homeowners use marble in their kitchens for countertops and backsplashes. The secret is to seal the stone properly and clean up spills right away. A sealed surface will give you enough time to wipe away most liquids before they cause a problem.
Myth 2: You Need Special, Expensive Cleaners
You do not need to spend a lot of money on cleaners. Many products you already have can harm your marble. The best cleaner is often the simplest one.
Acidic cleaners like vinegar, lemon juice, and harsh chemicals will etch the surface of your marble. This creates dull spots that are difficult to repair. A pH-neutral cleaner or even just warm water and a soft cloth are all you need for daily cleaning.
Myth 3: Sealing Lasts Forever
Sealing your marble is a critical step in protecting it, but it does not last forever. A good sealer fills the pores of the stone, making it more resistant to stains. However, sealers wear down over time.
Depending on how much you use the surface, you will need to reseal your marble every few years. You can do a simple water test to see if your stone needs resealing. If a few drops of water sit on the surface without being absorbed, your sealer is still working. We have more information on this on our page about the benefits of marble stone.
A Simple Daily and Weekly Cleaning Guide
Following a routine makes marble maintenance easy. A little bit of care each day goes a long way. Do not let dirt and grime build up.
Here is a simple plan for keeping your marble clean:
- Daily: Wipe up spills as they happen with a soft cloth. Use a damp cloth with water and a pH-neutral cleaner to wipe down the surface.
- Weekly: Dust the surface with a clean microfiber cloth. Clean with a pH-neutral stone cleaner.
- Monthly: Inspect your marble for any dull spots or new stains. This is a good time to deep-clean any grout lines on a floor.
Dealing with Spills and Stains
Even with the best marble care, spills can happen. The most important thing is to act quickly. Do not let liquids sit on the surface for a long time.
For acidic spills like wine, coffee, or citrus juice, blot them up immediately. Do not wipe, as this can spread the liquid and make the problem worse. For stains that have already set in, you can use a poultice, which is a paste that draws the stain out of the stone.
- Blot spills immediately with a paper towel.
- Avoid scrubbing or wiping acidic spills.
- For oil-based stains, use a special poultice made for marble.
- For watermarks, use a dry cloth to buff the area.
You can also find useful information on our blog, which covers a wide range of topics about natural stone, including marble thickness. Knowing the right thickness for your project is important for both design and durability.
A Final Word on Keeping Your Marble Beautiful
Marble is a living material that tells a story over time. A small stain or a slight change in the finish does not mean it is ruined. It simply means it has become part of your home’s history. The key is to see these marks as part of the stone’s character.
At PT Gramer, we believe that proper care makes a lasting difference. We are a Premium Indonesian Marble & Natural Stone Supplier with a passion for helping our customers protect their investment. By understanding the stone and following a simple routine, you can enjoy its beauty for many years. What is the one thing you find most difficult to clean in your home?
