With marble countertops being all the rage, it’s time we talk about how to care for this stunning surface. While it lends a timeless and elegant look to your kitchen and bathrooms, truth be told, the beloved stone can be rather high maintenance. Take the proper measures, however, and it’s totally worth it for a classic look that isn’t going out of style any time soon.
Here are a few tips to keep your marble countertops looking as new as the day you got them.
Use a Sealer
Unlike quartz or granite, marble is a porous surface. That means that a spilled glass of red wine could potentially be the end of your all-white kitchen. To avoid that from happening, you’re going to have to apply a marble sealer. Your supplier can likely do this upon installation, as well as provide advice on how often to reapply the sealer. Typically, once a month will do the trick.
Avoid Acids
Acidic substances, like lemons, should never be in direct contact with marble because they will etch the surface. Be sure to use a cutting board and stay away from cleaning agents that may have vinegar or lemon in them. Although marble is heat resistant, it’s also a good idea to always use a trivet or pot holder when placing a hot pan on the countertop.
Clean Carefully
For daily cleaning, you can use a mild dish or stone soap, then rinse with water to keep marble spick and span. If you do end up with a stubborn stain that refuses to come out, a mixture of hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of ammonia can be applied to the surface and repeated as necessary. One major benefit of marble is that, unlike other surfaces, it can be sanded down to remove the impossible stain if necessary.
Whether you go with a classic Calacatta or a sophisticated Statuario, take these proper precautions and you’ll be enjoying a flawless kitchen for years to come!