Cleaning marble countertops
Post Date: 26 May 2010 Viewed: 504
As marble are expensive and cleaning marble countertops is also hard, so marble countertops are not really commonly. Marble countertops need periodic resealing that should be done by the manufacturer or contractor. Marble is a porous material that can stain and scratch easily if it is not sealed or if the seal has worn off. But despite this, marble is a really beautiful stone and it can make any kitchen look elegant and classy. To maintain the beauty and finish of your marble countertop, it should be properly cleaning marble countertops. For the seal to last longer, wipe off spills immediately. Avoid spilling acidic liquids on it because the surface can etch. Make sure to use coasters or place mats when setting beverages on your marble countertop to avoid getting moisture rings.
Regular cleaning
Use a damp chamois cleaning marble countertops so it would not leave streaks. Wipe it down occasionally with lukewarm water, and wipe it dry with a clean cloth. Once a year, wash the marble countertop with dishwashing detergent dissolved in water. Rinse well and wipe dry. A coat of colorless wax can help seal your marble countertop and protect it from stains. However, do not use wax on white marble because it can cause it to yellow. For best results, buy professional marble sealers from your marble countertop manufacturer or distributor.
Special cleaning
Over time, your marble countertop can become dull and require polishing. Before, professional polishing to make your marble countertop look like new could only be done by marble manufacturers. But now, commercial marble cleaners and polishers are sold in the market, and you can use them to polish your marble countertop yourself. Dull and etched surfaces can be polished by rubbing putty powder or tin oxide with a damp cloth on the marble countertop surface. Buff it with an electric polisher to get great results.
Removing stains
Different chemical mixtures are recommended for taking out different types of stains on a marble countertop. The common chemicals used for removing stains are ammonia, 20% peroxide, acetone, dishwashing detergent, and commercial rust stain remover. It is recommended to use a poultice such as a blotter, napkin, facial tissue, or paper towel to apply these chemicals. The poultice should be left on the stain for an hour to 48 hours, depending on the depth and age of the stain. Use a plastic wrap to hold the poultice down and lock the moisture, otherwise, dampen the poultice regularly to maintain its moisture. Mix only the amount of chemicals that you need for immediate use, and just make a new batch if more is needed. When using chemicals that contain acid, make sure that you do not let the poultice remain too long on the marble because they can etch the surface.