How to Clean Marble Floors
Updated: Jan. 28, 2022
Marble is porous and susceptible to staining. Here's how to clean marble properly and keep it looking its best.
Introduction
Marble is porous and susceptible to staining. Here's how to properly clean marble flooring and keep it looking its best.Tools Required
- Bucket
- Dust Mop
- Soft cloths
- Wet Mop
Materials Required
- 12% Hydrogen Peroxide
- Ammonia
- Marble Polishing Powder
- pH Neutral Dish Washing Liquid (or Specially Formulated Marble Cleaner)
- Sealer
- Water
Project step-by-step (6)
Cleaning Marble With a Dry Mop
Prevent abrasives like dirt and sand from scratching up white marble floors by regularly cleaning them with a dust mop. Use a soft, natural, and chemical-free dust mop, and be sure to wash the mop head between uses. Avoid using a vacuum to clean up dust and dirt on marble because the vacuum’s wheels can easily scratch the floor.
Cleaning Marble With Soap
Remember that you should never use an acidic cleaner on marble floors. Don’t use anything containing vinegar or lemon because the acid will etch the marble, leaving behind white marks that resemble water stains.
All you’ll need to get the job done is water and a few drops of a gentle pH-neutral dish washing liquid. Wet mop the floor with the water-dish washing liquid solution and change out dirty water as needed. Be careful not to over-soak when mopping, because any standing water left on the floor can cause staining when it evaporates.
Rinsing and Drying Marble Floors
Once you’re done coating the marble in suds, thoroughly rinse the surface by mopping the floor again with clean water to remove any remaining soap residue. Then dry the floor with a soft cloth by hand, or use a dry mop.
Marble Stain Removal
Marble is a porous stone and famously susceptible to staining. That means that if you spill something on it it’s important to blot it up immediately. But if a spill gets missed and has time to set in, don’t worry: there’s still hope. You can spot clean the stain with a cloth dipped in a solution of 12% hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia.
Removing Etch Marks in Marble
Etch marks are dull spots caused by acids that eat away at the surface of the stone. To repair an etch mark, wet the surface with clean water and sprinkle on marble polishing powder. Then, with a damp cloth, rub the powder onto the stone with a circular motion. Continue buffing until the mark disappears.
Sealing Marble
To extend the lifespan of your marble, apply a sealer about every 2 to 3 years. Apply the sealer, following the manufacturer’s directions. Keep in mind, sealing does not make the marble stain proof, but it does make it more resistant to staining.
Originally Published: September 30, 2019
