If you’re lucky enough to have marble countertops in your home, you’re going to want to know exactly how to clean and maintain them.
Marble, that magnificent, soft, all-natural stone that is known for its stunning aesthetics, requires a particular type of cleaning and care—one that isn’t too difficult or too time consuming but is nevertheless imperative to ensuring that your countertops never fail to impress.
Here’s a look at three “dos” and three “don’ts” for you to follow when you’re cleaning your countertops:
Do take steps to protect your marble countertops
One of the easiest ways to keep your countertops clean is to take the steps to prevent spills and stains before they happen. So put coasters and hot pads under any container that’s full of a liquid, seal your marble countertops (if your marble requires it) and clean up any spills immediately.
Do keep your cleaning solution simple
All you really need to clean your marble countertops is a soft cloth or sponge, warm water, a non-abrasive, high-end cleaning agent and chamois. Mix your cleaning agent with the water, wipe down the countertops and then buff clean with the chamois.
Do polish your marble
One of the easiest ways to make sure the magnificence of your marble is readily apparent is to polish it. You can use a simple chamois dipped in water or a combination of baking soda and chalk.
Don’t rely on generic, cut-rate commercial cleaning products
Generic cleaning products cost less and claim to work as well as their higher-end counterparts. Don’t use them. Many contain acids and alkalis that will scratch and degrade your countertops. Protect your marble countertops by using high-grade cleaning products.
Don’t use general-purpose products
Some will say that you can use vinegar, bleach and ammonia to clean your marble countertops. And while it’s true you can, the fact is you shouldn’t. General-purpose cleaning products can wear down your countertops, permanently damage them and dull their shines. Be particular about which agents you use.
Don’t use abrasive agents or pads
Using abrasive tools to undergo a deep-cleaning effort might be tempting, but it can also leave a lasting impact on your countertops. Abrasive agents and scouring pads can leave your countertops scratched.
Keeping your countertops clean isn’t a matter of luck. It takes the right tools and knowledge. To learn more about keeping your countertops clean, contact Arch City Granite & Marble.