How to Clean White Marble – Safe Methods for a Fabulous Appearance

How to clean white marble without ruining its appearance? Are there safe methods that will not scratch, discolor or affect in any way the beautiful marble countertops, backsplash or flooring?

Marble is the oldest building material. Its beauty inspired architects from all over the world to create beautiful palaces, sculptures, mosaics. These masterpieces that have survived to this day are still impressive and amaze with their beauty and grandeur. Modern architects continue using this material. Its unique structure and range of colors allows marble to be used not only for creating works of art, but also use it in homes as a finishing material and decorative elements.

It turns out that cleaning white marble is a delicate task, given the sensitive and vulnerable surface. Despite its durability, is a rather porous stone that absorbs liquids, does not tolerate acids and is susceptible to mechanical stress.

General Tips for Cleaning White Marble

Those of you who have marble items in your home know that this luxurious material requires regular maintenance to keep it in pristine condition.

White marble can easily be stained, scratched and damaged. Its porous nature means that it is particularly sensitive to acids found in citrus fruits, wine, and some cleaning products that cause corrosion. Here are some guidelines how to clean white marble that you need to remember:

• Avoid acidic cleaners or those whose pH is not neutral, because their abrasiveness can cause discoloration.
• Do not use vinegar, ammonia, salt, alcohol, citrus-based cleaners, and antibacterial liquid soap.
• Use soft cleaning tools like mops and microfiber cloths.
• Try to remove spills as quickly as possible to avoid permanent stains or discoloration of the surface.
• Test cleaning products on an inconspicuous area.

• Do not air dry marble surfaces as you risk streaks – use a towel or soft cloth to wipe dry.
• Rub the marble gently in the direction of the grain, not in a circular motion.
• Use very fine sandpaper or metallic wool to remove light scratches, marks or water spots.
• Marble surfaces should be professionally sealed every three to five years.
• Avoid using vacuum cleaners as the metal head could easily scratch and damage the marble.

Cleaning white marble surfaces on a daily basis should be with water (preferably warm) and a damp, soft cloth. Simply wipe the marble surfaces with a damp microfiber cloth. Use only hot tap water, as many household cleaners are too harsh for marble countertops. If you need to clean your countertop more thoroughly, choose a commercial cleaner which is specially designed for this task.

As for marble floors, regular mopping should be sufficient. However, if the floor is dirty and needs additional cleaning, add a few drops of dish soap to a bucket of water and use a microfiber mop. Dry the floor thoroughly after cleaning it.

How to Clean White Marble with Baking Soda

Baking soda is a powerful natural cleanser. It is used for cleaning bathroom tiles, refrigerators, chopping boards, etc. Baking soda is cheap, easy to use, and it has cleaning properties that are perfect for marble. However, you should keep in mind that it is a mild abrasive and should not be rubbed onto marble surfaces with force. It is also advisable not to use this method regularly, as excessive use can ruin the shine of the surface.

• Mix a little baking soda and water to make a thick paste.
• Spread the mixture over the stained area with.
• Leave the paste on the surface of the marble for a few hours.
• Remove the mixture with a clean, damp cloth.

If the stain is not removed, apply more paste and cover the area with cling film, leaving it on for 24 hours. Wipe off the mixture with a warm, damp cloth – the stain should be gone.

Clean White Marble with Dish Soap

Dilute a teaspoon of mild dish soap in a small bowl of lukewarm water.

Dab a soft cloth in the solution and rub gently over the stained area.

Wipe with a clean, dry cloth.

Cleaning White Marble with Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is often used in house maintenance and cleaning. When it comes to marble, however, it is recommended that you test it on an inconspicuous corner.

Apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide solution mixed with a few drops of ammonia directly to the stained area. Cover with cling film, leaving it to act for at least 24 hours. Remove with a clean damp cloth. Rinse the marble with distilled water and dry with a towel or soft cloth.

Can You Clean Stained White Marble with Cornstarch?

This baking ingredient is ideal for removing grease stains from marble. For best results, try to treat stains immediately.

Sprinkle a little cornstarch on the grease stain and let stand for about half an hour. Use a clean damp cloth to wipe it off.

For older grease stains, spray with distilled water and apply a thick layer of cornstarch, leaving it on for at least 24 hours before wiping it off with a clean, damp cloth.

How to Prevent Stains on Marble Surfaces?

If you have a marble floor next to your front door, place a rug in front of it and do not walk with your shoes on in the room. Grains of sand and particles of dirt on your shoes will constantly scratch the floor, so this is an easy way to protect your beautiful marble flooring.

If you have marble countertops in your kitchen, try using shopping boards. Use coasters especially when you place glasses with wine or other acidic beverages. Do not place hot pans and pot directly on the countertop.

If you have a marble sink, bathtub, or shower, wipe it down with a squeegee to prevent soap marks.