Tip Tuesday: Cleaning Marble Countertops

Marble counter tops can be tricky to keep clean. Never fear, I have some tips and tricks for you. Because Marble counter tops are softer than some of their counterparts, you will need to take special care in taking care of them. One of the most important rules of thumb for marble is: NO ACIDIC or VINEGAR Cleaning Products can be used. If you do use them, you risk etching the surface of your counters. This doesn't mean you need to go out and buy marble specific cleaning products. All you need is a little distilled water, blue Dawn dishwashing soap, baking soda and lots of soft cloths for wiping up and for drying the surface of your counters.

Every time water is splashed on to the surface, it needs to be wiped up right away. If you leave it there to dry in the air, it will result in unsightly spotting. The best cleaner you can use is a mild dish soap (I prefer the blue Dawn). Soap and water mixed in about a 1 tbsp to 2 cups water ratio. You will want to blot up any soda, juice, wine, broth, etc. with a paper towel immediately! Make sure you blot (press down on them and not wipe so you don't spread the stain.) You can't let liquid just sit on your counter - ever! You must get it taken care of right away. Old t-shirts that you cut down, can be used as great washcloths. Just make sure the fabric isn't an abrasive type. Marble is beautiful but it can be so hard to take care of - especially if you have children.

Distilled water is great for wiping up daily messes because it won't leave spots. However, you still will want to dry your counter top with a soft cloth. Never let your marble counter tops air dry. If you do, then your water spots could be permanent or you may have to opt for a professional to come and buff it out.

For more difficult stains you will want to use a paste of water and  baking soda. Add enough water to the baking soda (maybe start with 2 tablespoons of baking soda). You just rub the paste into the stain with your fingers or with a soft cloth. You can cover it with plastic wrap for a day (24 hours) and then rinse it away with clear water. Always dry with your favorite soft cloth.



Good luck!

BellaOnline Cleaning

Make it a great one!

Daughter, Sister, Friend, Wife - in our 18th year of wedded bliss, Stepmother to 2 adult children, Mother - (G16, G15, B12, G10, B9, B5, G4, & B1), StepMother-In-Law to 2, StepGrandmother to 4 precociously precious little boys! Blessed, Happy & Satisfied!