Marble flooring has stood the test of time. Marble’s inherent veining and colour range wonderfully with their styles. While marble floors are highly durable, they do require frequent cleaning and maintenance with the proper chemicals and tools.
Cleaning Marble Floors
Dust and debris may produce minute scratches on marble floors, dulling the sheen and allowing stains to penetrate. Dry dust mop floors at least twice a week before wetting surfaces with clean water and use a damp cloth to remove any rust stains.
Spills, especially acidic liquids, and apparent mud or dirt should be cleaned up quickly. Every few months, deep cleaning of marble flooring is necessary with warm water and can take up to 30 minutes per room.
Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Process
- Prepare the Area: Begin by using a dry dust mop to remove loose dirt and debris. This prevents scratches and makes the subsequent cleaning more effective.
- Mix a Cleaning Solution: Combine warm water with a mild, pH-neutral cleaning agent. A moderate phosphate-free dish detergent or marble soap works well. Avoid acidic cleaners to prevent damage to the marble surface.
- Mop the Floor: Moisten the marble with clean water using a spray bottle or wrung-out mop. Apply the cleaning solution with a soft mop, following the manufacturer’s directions. Clean in circular motions to cover the surface evenly.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After mopping, rinse the floor with clean water to remove any residue. Change the water as necessary to ensure it remains clean throughout the process.
- Handle Stains: For any tough stains:
- Scuffs: Gently rub a dry tennis ball over the scuff marks.
- Ink Stains: Soak a cloth in rubbing alcohol, place it over the stain, and let it sit for a few minutes before gently rubbing away.
- Organic Stains: Use a cloth soaked in 12% hydrogen peroxide on the stain for about 10 minutes.
- Oily Stains: Mix warm water with dishwashing liquid, or use cornstarch, letting it sit on the stain for several hours.
- Dry and Buff: Finish by drying the floor with a soft microfiber cloth. For a polished finish, buff the surface in large circles, ensuring all excess water is removed to avoid staining.
Removing Scuff Marks from Marble Floors
Scuff marks can sometimes show up on marble, interrupting its smooth, clean look. Luckily, they’re easy to handle. Simply buff the area gently with a soft, dry tennis ball or a microfiber cloth, using light circular motions. This should lift the mark without scratching the surface.
For more stubborn scuffs, lightly dampen the cloth with plain water—never harsh cleaners—and repeat the process. Always dry the spot afterward to prevent moisture from seeping into the marble.
Factors to Consider
Marble is an alkali stone that interacts with acid. This chemical reaction can cause discolouration. The correct cleaning product is vital rather than dish soap.
Cleaners like ammonia or chlorine bleach can permanently damage marble finishes. Avoid cleansers that are abrasive or claim to “scour” dirt. Acid-based industrial cleaners, including those indicated for granite, should be avoided.
Beware of products that claim to be clean and shiny. These aren’t made for marble and can make it seem dirty.
- Avoid Difficulty
- Avoid harsh cleansers. Marble, a calcareous stone, is very acidic.
- Using acidic cleaners such as vinegar on marble floors may cause dull areas called etching.
- Bathroom, grout, tub, and tile cleaners should also be avoided.
- Even a granite cleanser will be too harsh; granite is a siliceous stone that can withstand acid.
- Vacuums might scratch the stone surface.
- To avoid scratches, use soft towels instead of cleaning brushes.
- Always try any marble cleaning procedure on a tiny, inconspicuous area first.
- Dust & Dirt Tracking
- Clean marble floors regularly using a clean, non-treated dust mop.
A decent rule of thumb is to dust mop once weekly per person or pet. Dust mop twice a week for a two-person household.
Make your job easier by placing non-slip mats and rugs at doorways. These floor covers will help keep abrasive debris from harming marble flooring.
Plan Deep Cleaning Monthly
Marble floors require regular cleaning, at least weekly, maybe more depending on traffic and grime. If feasible, use a soapless cleanser with a pH neutral (pH7) to reduce streaks or film. You may also use a moderate phosphate-free dish detergent or marble soap and clean in circular motions.
To ensure your marble tiles remain pristine, consider these additional cleaning solutions:
- Highly Diluted pH-Neutral Products: Mix a small amount with water for an effective, gentle clean.
- Mild Dish-Washing Soap Solution: Combine with water for a simple, effective cleaner.
- Windex: This can be used sparingly for a quick shine.
- Baking Soda: A natural option; apply with water to tackle tougher stains.
- Light Dish-Washing Detergent: Ideal for regular maintenance without harsh chemicals.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Use with care for spot cleaning, especially on lighter-colored marble.
- Rubbing Alcohol: Dilute with water to disinfect without damaging the surface.
By utilizing these methods and products, you can maintain the elegance and durability of your marble tiles, ensuring they look their best over time.
- To clean, first moisten the stone with clean water (a spray bottle or a wrung-out mop works well).
- Apply the cleaning agent with a soft mop as directed by the manufacturer.
- Rinse the surface well with clean water, changing it as required.
- Dry with a soft cloth.
For best results and to avoid damage:
- Act quickly with spills. Even if your marble is sealed, acidic spills—like fruit juice, soda, or vinegar—should be blotted up right away. Use a damp microfiber cloth to blot, not rub, then follow with a rinse and thorough drying to prevent streaks or slippery patches.
- Trap dust before it scratches. Use a dry dust mop or a disposable sweeper cloth to pick up grit and dirt. Skip the vacuum beater bar and stiff-bristled brooms, which can leave fine scratches behind.
- Mix a gentle cleaning solution. In a bucket or sink, combine warm water with a mild, neutral pH soap—there are special marble soaps available, but a few drops of unscented dish soap per gallon works in a pinch. Set aside a second bucket of clean water for rinsing.
- Mop, rinse, and repeat in small sections. Your mop should be damp, not dripping. Work in manageable areas, rinsing the mop frequently and swapping out rinse water as it gets cloudy.
- Buff to finish. After drying with a soft cloth, use circular motions to gently buff the stone. This helps maintain that polished, luminous look and prevents water spots, which can lead to long-term dullness or even rust stains on some marbles.
Taking a little extra care each time you clean helps your marble floor stay brilliant and damage-free.
- Once the stains are removed and the soapy areas have been cleaned, reach for a soft, microfiber cloth to dry the marble flooring. Gently move the cloth in large circles across the surface for a polished look. This technique not only enhances the shine but also ensures any excess water is effectively removed, preventing potential stains.
NEW STAINS
Waiting too long may make it difficult to remove stains. Spills should be blotted up quickly with a delicate cloth, neither wiping or spreading the stain. Rinse with water and mild soap. Rep and dry.
For new, stubborn marks that resist a simple wipe-down, try these gentle spot-cleaning techniques:
- Scuffs: Gently rub the scuff with a dry tennis ball to lift the mark without scratching.
- Ink stains: Saturate a soft cloth or paper towel with rubbing alcohol and place it over the stain. Let it sit for several minutes, then blot away. Repeat as needed, rinsing the area with plain water and buffing dry.
- Oily stains: Blot away excess oil, then clean the area with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. If residue remains, sprinkle the stain with a generous layer of cornstarch and let it sit for at least four hours to draw out the oil. Repeat as necessary.
- Water spots: Lightly dampen the area with clean water, then dry and buff with soft microfiber cloths using large, circular motions.
For scuffs, gently rub a dry tennis ball over the marble tiles to lift the marks effectively.
OLD STAINS
If a stain goes unnoticed at first, a more specific treatment method may be required. Organic matter (most meals, coffee, tea, and fruit) can be removed using 12 percent hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia. (Note: While mixing hydrogen peroxide with ammonia is safe, other cleansers can generate a dangerous chemical reaction.)
For other stubborn stains, different approaches work best:
- Scuffs: Gently rub the mark with a dry tennis ball. It sounds odd, but the rubber lifts away scuffs without harming the surface.
- Ink Stains: Saturate a soft cloth or paper towel with rubbing alcohol and place it over the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes, then blot away the ink. Repeat as needed, and be sure to rinse the area well with plain water before drying.
- Oily Stains: Blot excess oil, then clean with warm water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. If the oily patch lingers, cover it with a thick layer of cornstarch and leave it for at least four hours to draw out the residue. Repeat until the area is clear.
- Water Spots: Lightly dampen the spot with plain water, then use soft microfiber cloths to dry and buff in large, circular motions. This helps restore shine and banish spots without harsh chemicals.
Tackling old stains may require patience and a little trial and error, but with the right method, most marks can be coaxed out without damaging your floors.
For ink stains, soak a soft cloth with rubbing alcohol and place it over the stain. After a few minutes, gently rub the area, repeating until the ink is gone. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
To tackle oily stains, start with a mixture of warm water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. If the stain persists, sprinkle cornstarch over the area and let it sit for at least four hours to absorb the oil. Repeat as necessary until the stain disappears.
For organic stains, use a soft cloth soaked in 12% hydrogen peroxide. Place it on the stain for about 10 minutes, repeating the process until the stain is removed, then rinse well with clean water.
These targeted methods ensure your marble tiles stay pristine, regardless of the type of stain. Always remember to finish with a rinse to preserve the marble’s natural luster and beauty.
For other stubborn stains, consider these targeted methods:
- Scuffs: Use a dry tennis ball to gently rub the scuff mark. This simple technique can often lift marks without the need for harsh chemicals.
- Ink Stains: Saturate a soft cloth or paper towel with rubbing alcohol and place it over the stain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before blotting away the ink. Repeat until the ink is gone, then rinse the area with plain water and buff dry.
- Oily Stains: Begin by blotting away as much oil as possible. Clean the area with a mixture of warm water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. If the stain persists, apply a thick layer of cornstarch to the oily spot. Leave it in place for at least four hours to absorb the oil, repeating as necessary until the stain is eliminated.
- Water Spots: Lightly dampen the floor with plain water, then use several soft microfiber cloths to dry and buff the surface using large, circular motions. This can help remove water marks without leaving streaks.
These targeted approaches ensure that even the toughest stains can be addressed effectively while preserving the beauty of your marble floors.
How to Treat Oily Stains on Marble Floors
Dealing with oily stains on marble floors requires a gentle yet effective approach to maintain the elegance of your stone surface. Here’s a step-by-step guide to tackle those stubborn spots:
- Initial Blotting: Start by gently blotting the oil with a clean, soft cloth. Avoid rubbing, which could spread the stain.
- Cleaning Solution: Prepare a solution of warm water mixed with a few drops of a mild dishwashing soap. Dip a sponge or cloth into the soapy water and gently dab the stained area. The goal is to lift as much oil as possible without further embedding the stain.
- Cornstarch Method: If the stain persists, cover the oily spot with a thick layer of cornstarch. Allow it to sit for at least four hours. Cornstarch acts as an absorbent, drawing out the remaining oil from the marble’s pores.
- Repetition and Patience: Check the stain after removing the cornstarch. If it’s still visible, you may need to repeat the process. Patience is key here, as it may take a few rounds.
Utilize these steps to keep your marble floors looking pristine without causing any harm to their natural beauty.
Treating Oily Stains on Marble Floors
Oily stains can be persistent, but with the right approach, your marble can look as good as new. Begin by gently blotting up as much of the spill as possible using a soft, dry cloth—avoid wiping, as this can spread the oil further.
Next, clean the affected area with warm water mixed with a mild, phosphate-free dish detergent, working in a gentle, circular motion. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry the surface.
If the oil stain lingers, try sprinkling a generous layer of cornstarch directly over the spot. Let the cornstarch sit undisturbed for several hours (at least four) so it can draw the oil out of the stone. Afterward, sweep or vacuum the powder away, and repeat the process if needed until the stain is fully lifted.
Marble cleaning tools
Keep your marble floors clean and free of scratches by using the correct tools. To start, gather the following materials:
- 1 container: Mild soap or soap formulated specifically for marble.
- 1 bottle: Hydrogen peroxide for tackling tougher stains.
- 1 box: Cornstarch, which can be used for spot treatments.
Avoid rough or sharp objects that may scratch the marble. Abrasive brushes and sponges damage marble, while chamois cloths and dust mops preserve it. Dry erasers are especially dangerous since they clean surfaces by abrading them.
To get started, you’ll need a basic toolkit:
- Dust mop: For regular removal of dust and grit.
- Damp mop: For wet cleaning with mild solutions.
- 2 to 3 microfiber cloths: Gentle on marble and perfect for drying or spot-cleaning.
- Mild soap or marble-formulated soap: Always opt for pH-neutral to avoid residue or etching.
- Hydrogen peroxide: Useful for targeting tough organic stains (always test on an inconspicuous spot).
- Cornstarch: Helpful for lifting oily stains without scratching.
You should never use acidic cleaners on marble. To avoid marble reaction or etching, use alkali cleaning solutions like ammonia and hydrogen peroxide, or neutral water. Be mindful of the color and composition of your marble floor while picking cleaning products. Acids like peroxide and ammonia may bleach dark marble. Always try cleaners in a hidden location first.
When cleaning marble, start with a neutral solution like water or a pH-balanced marble cleaner and work your way up. After washing your marble floor, always rinse it completely with plain water to neutralize any leftover chemicals.
Having the right tools and products on hand not only makes routine cleaning easier but also helps protect your investment, ensuring your marble floors remain beautiful for years to come.
By preparing with the right materials and following these guidelines, you can maintain the beauty and integrity of your marble floors.
How often should sealant be reapplied to marble floors?
Reapplying a marble floor sealant is essential for long-term protection, but how often you’ll need to do so depends on the type of sealant and floor usage. As a rule of thumb, most marble floors benefit from resealing once every 6 to 12 months. Heavily trafficked areas, such as entryways or kitchens, may require more frequent attention.
To decide if your marble needs resealing, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface. If the water beads up, your sealant is still doing its job. If it soaks in, it’s time to reseal. Always follow the instructions provided by the product’s manufacturer (such as DuPont, Miracle Sealants, or StoneTech), and test your chosen sealant on a discreet spot to ensure compatibility with your specific marble type. Regular resealing helps your floors resist stains and maintain their natural shine.
How to Preserve Marble Floors?
- Marble floors are the epitome of luxury, but maintaining their beauty requires careful attention. Here’s how you can ensure your marble remains pristine:
- Use non-skid doormats inside and outside doors to prevent scratches and the spread of dirt throughout your home.
- Protect furniture legs with padding, and avoid pulling heavy furniture across the floor to prevent unsightly marks.
- Choose honed, tumbled, or brushed marble for areas like bathrooms and kitchens to reduce the risk of slips.
- Beyond these preventive measures, it’s crucial to adopt proper cleaning and protection techniques:
- Avoid Aggressive Cleansers: Steer clear of cleaners containing vinegar, lemon, or orange, as they can etch the marble surface. Instead, opt for a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for marble.
- Use a marble sealant recommended for marble floors and reapply as directed by the manufacturer.
- Immediate Spill Management: Blot up spills immediately to prevent stains. Quick action is key to maintaining the marble’s appearance.
- Regular Dusting and Cleaning: Make it a routine to dust and clean marble tiles at least once a week, ensuring dirt doesn’t accumulate and cause damage.
- Use a Marble Sealant: Applying a marble sealant and reapplying it as directed can provide an extra layer of protection against stains and etching.
- Protective Measures in the Kitchen: When using marble countertops, place a plastic or silicone sheet during food preparation and use trivets for hot pots and pans to avoid direct contact that might cause damage.
- By integrating these practices into your regular home maintenance routine, you can keep your marble floors looking as elegant as the day they were installed.
