Marble tables are a timeless addition to every home, giving a touch of glamour and refinement. But with beauty, there is a responsibility: taking care and keeping them in prime shape. Marble is a porous and delicate material susceptible to stains, etches, and scratches without proper care. In the article below, we'll guide you on how to keep your marble table in prime shape and look gorgeous in the years to come.
How to Protect Marble Tables from Scratches and Stains
Marble is a delicate substance and needs to be treated with care to keep it looking luxurious. In order not to damage your marble table, use placemats, coasters, or a tablecloth under glasses plates, and other items. Do not drag hard and pointed items on the surface because doing so would cause permanent scarring.
Stains are yet another common issue with marble tabletops. Since marble is a porous material, spills such as coffee, wine, and oil are easily absorbed and stained. Avoid spills and contact with oily and acidic products on the tabletop. Clean spills immediately.
Sealing the Marble Table Top
One of the most effective ways of guarding a marble tabletop is sealing. Sealing using a high-quality sealer forms a protective barrier over the stone, reducing the degree of porosity and making the stone impervious to damage and stains.
How Often Should You Seal Marble?
You should seal marble table every six months to a year. To determine if a reseal is required, a few drops of water are dropped onto the surface. If the water is still beaded, the seal is still functional. If the water is absorbed, a reseal is needed.
Steps to Seal a Marble Table:
1. Clean the area and let it dry thoroughly.
2. Apply with a sponge or a soft cloth.
3. Allow the sealer to penetrate the marble for a specified amount of time (usually 10-15 minutes).
4. Remove any excess sealer with a clean, dry cloth.
5. Let the table sit and cure for a minimum of 24 hours before usage.
Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning of marble table is important to maintain the shine and longevity. Dust and dirt are abrasive and, over some time, cause scratches.
Daily Cleaning Routine:
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Use a microfiber cloth gently daily to dust the surface.
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For a mild cleaning, damp a piece of cloth with warm water and wipe the table.
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Dry the surface at once with a dry, clean cloth in order not to get spots.
Weekly Cleaning Routine:
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Mix a small amount of mild pH-balanced dish soap with warm water.
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Take a soft cloth, dip it in the solution, wring it out thoroughly, and wipe the table.
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Rinse the cloth with cold water and wipe the table a second time in order to eliminate soap.
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Dry the surface thoroughly.
Removing the Stains Promptly
Accidents happen, and when they do, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent stains from setting into the marble .
For Organic Stains:
1. Blot the spill with a clean absorbent.
2. Mix a little hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of ammonia.
3. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
4. Wipe with a damp rag and dry the area.
For Oil-Based Stains:
1. Sprinkle over the stain with baking soda or cornstarch to absorb.
2. Let sit for a few hours or overnight.
3. Wipe away the powder and wash with a mild soap solution.
For Etching:
The etching appears as dull spots on the marble surface. To remove minor etching, use a marble polishing powder and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. For severe etching, consult a professional.
What Should You Not Clean Marble Tables With?
Marble is also sensitive to acid and abrasive chemicals, and these ruin the surface. Do not use the following:
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Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Both these acids are potential etchers.
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Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide: They are useful in removing stains but are not suitable for regular use since they dull the surface.
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Abrasive Cleaners or Scouring Pads: These will scratch the marble.
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Generic Household Cleansers: They contain chemicals not compatible with marble.
Always opt for pH-balanced cleaning products specifically made for marble or natural stone.
Prevention Tips
Prevention is key in keeping your marble tabletop in top shape. The following are a few more suggestions:
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Use placemats or a tablecloth on top of the surface while eating.
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Avoid direct contact with the marble; trivets and heat-resistant mats are a better choice.
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Keep the table out of direct sunlight to prevent discoloration.
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Regularly check the table for wear and repair issues in a timely way.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Is a marble tabletop easy to maintain compared with other surfaces?
A: Marble tabletops are high-maintenance compared to other surfaces such as glass and wood because they are porous and susceptible to stains and scratches. But with proper care, they will remain gorgeous for decades.
Q: Can deep stains, etches, and scratches on a marble tabletop be removed?
A: Minor stains and scratches are treatable at home with specialized products. However, deep stains, etching, and scratches could require professional restoration.
Q: Can I clean marble surfaces with vinegar and baking soda?
A: No. Vinegar and baking soda are too abrasive and acidic and would etch and damage the surface. They recommend pH-neutral cleaning products made for cleaning marble.
