New homeowners often have to learn how to take care of the surfaces within their home without having the benefit of previous experience. When the home they purchase has special features, such as marble countertops, they must learn quickly in order to prevent damaging the surface during normal kitchen uses, such as cooking meals, making snacks, or packing lunches for school or work. If you have recently purchased a home with marble counters, the following tips will help you keep them looking marvelous through years of use and enjoyment.
Clean carefully
Some types of cleaners can scratch or dull marble counters, especially abrasive kitchen cleaners or wipes or sprays with high acid content, such as those with citrus oils or vinegar. Homeowners who want to protect the appearance of their counters should choose to wipe surfaces often with a soft cloth and use only approved products for cleaning.
Use with care
Marble counters are durable, and their smooth, cool surface offers an excellent work area for rolling out pastry and other baking tasks, but because it is also porous, homeowners will need to use care to avoid damage by:
- wiping away acidic spills, such as fruit juice, soda, wine, or vinegar quickly to prevent etching
- using thermal pads or silicone mats to insulate the surface from hot pots, pans, or skillets
- using coasters to prevent drips and water rings from forming under glasses, cups, and stemware
- using a cutting board or protective mat when slicing or chopping foods
- using a tray under greasy or sticky dishes or products, such as salad dressings and oils to prevent staining
A good plan for homeowners who want to keep their marble counters and surfaces looking good is to keep a soft, clean cloth handy when cooking or baking, to quickly wipe up spills and keep the surface clean.
Seal as needed
In addition to regular cleaning, most marble surfaces should be sealed to help prevent stains and keep the surface from looking dull or dingy. To find the right sealer for the marble surfaces in your home, homeowners should consult with local stone contractors or suppliers in their area.
However, it is important to note that not all marble products require sealant. Your local stone contractor or supplier can assist you with determining what type of marble you have and help you choose the right sealant if one is required. They can also assist them with any stain-removal or repair issues that may be needed.
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