Cleaning and Removing Stains and Scratches from Marble Counter Tops

Editor's Note: "Whiting" is calcium carbonate, and it can be found in specialty paint stores and hardware stores. - AC"

Marble is a material that is often used to make beautiful tabletops, floors, counter tops, mantles, and other decorative marble surfaces, but marble can become easily scratched, stained, discolored, and permanently scarred. Although marble is a material that can be easily damaged, if you want a marble counter top, floor, tabletop, or other marble piece, by all means choose marble. Synthetic marble tabletops, counter tops, flooring, and other marble pieces are available, but nothing compares to the beauty of high-quality marble. With a little extra care and attention, marble surfaces will remain as beautiful as the day they were new. It's best to take preventive measures to keep marble looking its best, but if marble pieces become dirty, stained, or scratched, if the damage isn't too severe, the marble can be cleaned or repaired.

Protecting Marble to Avoid Scratches and Stains

Don't take the chance on leaving your marble tabletops, counter tops, floors, mantles, and other decorative marble pieces unprotected. Even the most diligent care can result in an unavoidable scratch or stain. Protect marble from moisture damage by always using coasters beneath drinking glasses and cups, and place throw rugs in areas of heavy foot traffic. Place protective plastic scarves beneath items that could cause damage to marble furniture. Keep marble surfaces protected on a daily basis, but consider uncovering marble when you want to impress guests. Don't be afraid to show the beauty of your marble, but make coasters available, and always pay careful attention to marble surfaces when they aren't protected.

Cleaning Marble

Marble will eventually become dirty no matter how hard you try to keep it clean. Run lukewarm water over a soft clean sponge, and ring out the sponge until it's barely damp. Gently wipe the marble, and dry it with a clean soft cloth. Buff the marble until it shines.