Planning to clean your imported exotic stone blocks and slabs crafted from premium marbles but don’t know how to do it? Here is a guide.
Whether it’s your kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, or flooring, marble surfaces add elegance and a touch of luxury to any space. But maintaining their shiny, flawless appearance requires care and attention. Unlike other materials, marble is open and vulnerable to dullness, stains, and scratches over time. However, there is no need to worry because we are here with a complete maintenance routine of imported exotic blocks and slabs that will help you keep your marble surfaces looking stunning for a long time.
Why Marble Requires Special Care
Marble is a natural stone consisting primarily of calcium carbonate and is therefore susceptible to acidic agents, which can cause discoloration. Marble beauty is unmatched and the best, but the improper maintenance will ultimately result in irreparable harm. To prevent all these, you should follow these effective tips for maintaining marble surfaces effectively.
Clean Spills Immediately
The most important rule to maintain the appearance of your marble is to wipe up the spills as soon as they happen. Marbles can absorb the liquid quickly, leading these spills to form stains that are very tough to remove.
To remove the spills, use a soft cloth or paper towel to blot them instead of rubbing them. For acidic spills like lemon juice, vinegar, wine, or coffee, rinse it with water and a mild pH-neutral cleaner instantly. Also avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or cleaner based on ammonia as they can result in the dullness of the surface.
Use a Gentle Cleaning Solution
Harsh cleaning agents can corrode the protective sealant on marble causing damage over time. Therefore, always choose a mild cleaning solution that keeps the stone’s natural shine safe. Avoid using vinegar, citrus-based cleaners, and rough sponges that can wear down the surface of marble.
The best option for cleaning is mixing the warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. Use a soft microfiber cloth or mop to clean the surface. Then dry the surface with a clean towel to prevent water marks.
Seal your Marble Regularly
As marble is a porous material, it becomes important to seal it regularly to prevent stains and damage. A high-quality sealant acts as a barrier against liquid and dirt.
How often should you seal your marble?
- Every 6 to 12 months for high-usage areas like kitchen countertops and flooring.
- Every 1 to 2 years for less frequently used surfaces like decorative marble pieces.
- And you can test if sealing is required or not. For the test just place a few drops of water on the surface and if it absorbs the water within 30 seconds, it is time to reseal that surface.
Prevent Scratches and Etching
Being prone to scratches and etching, we need to prevent marble from these. These can make the surface look dull and worn. A few precautionary measures are required to prevent this damage. Some of the measures are:
Avoid dragging furniture and sharp objects across the marble floors.
Use felt pads under chair legs and heavy décor items.
Use coasters under glasses, especially for acidic drinks like wine and citrus juices.
Place mats or trays under the toiletries in your bathroom to prevent spills.
Buff and Polish for Extra Shine
Marble can lose its shine over time. Regular polishing helps restore the original luster and keeps it looking elegant. You can polish marble at home by yourself. Use a dry microfiber cloth to buff the surface daily.
For deeper polishing, use a store-bought marble polish or a homemade mix of baking soda and water. Then apply it gently with a soft cloth and let it sit for 5 hours. After that, rinse it with warm water and dry the surface. And avoid using wax-based polishes, as they can cause a yellowish buildup over time.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
While your routine care can keep marble looking great, professional restoration is essential for getting rid of deep stains, heavy scratches, and dullness.
It is a good time to call a professional:
- If stains remain after many cleaning attempts.
- When the surface looks significantly dull or uneven.
- For deep polishing or refinishing to restore the original beauty of marble.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining the elegance and appearance of imported exotic stone blocks and slabs crafted from marble is not difficult. By following these simple yet worthy tips, you can protect your investment and enjoy the luxurious beauty of marble for years. Consistent cleaning, sealing, polishing, and protective measures keep your marble surfaces looking flawless and elegant. And, for sourcing premium quality marble slabs and blocks from India, connect with Manit Marbles.