Clean Marble Before Sealing

When marble stains it s generally because watery or oily liquids have found their way into those tiny microscopic spaces between the marble s crystals.

Clean marble before sealing.

Mild soap and hot water will do just fine. Use a clean damp cloth to wipe the hydrogen peroxide off and thoroughly dry the surface with a soft clean towel. Prepare with the correct tile floor care products. Scrub gently and wipe soapy solution off with a clean.

Wipe sudsy water on the counter with a soft cloth or sponge. If the mineral oil leaves no stain then your marble or granite is not in need of sealing. Even with the application of a penetrating sealer you will merely narrow the voids making them less impervious to penetrating liquids by capillary action. If not using marble cleaner mix a squirt of gentle non abrasive dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle and spray the counter generously.

The mineral oil should sit for the same 10 to 15 minutes as the water test both can be done at the same time. At the end of the prescribed period wipe up the mineral oil with a soft clean absorbent cloth. You don t need specialty cleaners for marble. Shake or stir well before use.

If you spilled anything oil based like a vinaigrette. Ensure that the tile is totally dry before applying the sealer if unsure wait 48 hours after cleaning. Ensure that the tile is clean and free from all residues detergents grout cement oil wax and other stains. Do not use cleaners containing acid including vinegar which can etch the stone.

Mix 12 percent hydrogen peroxide with several drops of ammonia and apply it to the stained tile with a cloth. Let the floor dry completely. Since marble can be permanently damaged you should protect your countertop with a sealer. Look for an acid resistant impregnator sealer in your local home improvement store.

Before you apply your sealer you ll need to clean. You should only use hydrogen peroxide to clean your marble tile if it is a light color. Rinse the surface thoroughly after washing with the soap solution and dry with a soft cloth. Do not use products that contain lemon vinegar or other acids on marble or limestone.

Too much cleaner or soap may leave a film and cause streaks. For most organic food stains the marble institute recommends cleaning with a solution of 12 hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia. A secret in knowing how to clean marble countertops. This will remove dirt but won t heal any etching or stains.