Marble is a wonderful and unique stone used for many building and architectural purposes. Although this stone may quite porous and easily stains, its unique look and feel still makes it a good choice for home use, and these are used as materials for floor, bathroom and kitchen tiling in many homes.

However, homeowners need to keep in mind that in order to keep these types of flooring shiny, and in constant good shape, they need to employ cleaning and maintenance methods that should be done on a regular basis, as these types of flooring materials are easily etched, bruised and stained by dirt, dust, grime and other acid-containing fluids.

Regular Marble Floor Cleaning Routine

For those who have these at home, occasionally washing marble surfaces with lukewarm water and wiping it dry with a clean cloth helps to maintain its luster and good traction.

Wiping the surface with a damp poultice or cloth will not leave streaks or stains. Wash the floor with a mild detergent solution at least once or twice a year, rinse and be sure to wipe dry. A light coat of wax will protect the surface of marble floors, however it's not considered essential. You may also use colorless wax, however take note that you should not wax white marble, as this may cause it to turn yellow.

As always, a marble sealer also needs to be applied to clean marble, which will protect it from staining and allow grime, dust and soil to be wiped off with a damp cloth. Should you or someone else spill fluids like juices, vinegar, or any acidic liquids on it, immediately wipe off anything spilled on the floor, just as you would on wooden surfaces.

Specialized Cleaning Tips

For marble floors that have become dull, these can be reinvigorated by by using a commercial marble cleaner and polish, and you can purchase these from a company that sells marble, or from specialty tile shops and home depot store.

Most professional floor cleaners generally carry imported polish-cleaners, which are used on softer imported marbles and are deemed safe for the harder U.S. variety. These cleaners work faster and easier than the usual marble care kits distributed previously by tile cleaning distributors.

For tough stains, like oil, rust and other acids, fashion a poultice that is dampened with acetone or amyl acetate, or with home dry cleaning fluid. When cleaning heavier stains, make sure that you open the windows to remove fumes, and do not use these materials when near a spark or flame.

Oil stains may include butter, hand cream or lotion. You may also try scrubbing off oil stains using a hot, detergent solution and a stiff brush. For rust stains, you could utilize a commercial rust stain remover. Remember to follow directions exactly and do not leave on surface very long as acid in many rust cleaners will etch the surface.

Overall marble floor tiles make good alternatives to other types of flooring, like hardwood. However, you need to ensure that you measure the room before purchasing any. These flooring materials are relatively easy to clean and they can be inexpensive too, hence they are certainly worth considering whenever one is looking out for fresher and more innovative flooring ideas.