Clean Marble Before Sealing

Before you apply your sealer you ll need to clean.

Clean marble before sealing.

For most organic food stains the marble institute recommends cleaning with a solution of 12 hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia. At the end of the prescribed period wipe up the mineral oil with a soft clean absorbent cloth. Use a clean damp cloth to wipe the hydrogen peroxide off and thoroughly dry the surface with a soft clean towel. 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.

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. Do not use products that contain lemon vinegar or other acids on marble or limestone. 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. A secret in knowing how to clean marble countertops. Do not use cleaners containing acid including vinegar which can etch the stone. Since marble can be permanently damaged you should protect your countertop with a sealer.

Test the marble sealer. Rinse the surface thoroughly after washing with the soap solution and dry with a soft cloth. You should only use hydrogen peroxide to clean your marble tile if it is a light color. Mild soap and hot water will do just fine.

Use a clean rag mop on floors and a soft cloth for other surfaces for best results. Before sealing your marble floor thoroughly clean it with a ph neutral cleaner made for marble. You don t need specialty cleaners for marble. 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.

Wipe sudsy water on the counter with a soft cloth or sponge. Too much cleaner or soap may leave a film and cause streaks. Scrub gently and wipe soapy solution off with a clean. Prepare with the correct tile floor care products.

This will remove dirt but won t heal any etching or stains. Ensure that the tile is clean and free from all residues detergents grout cement oil wax and other stains. The mineral oil should sit for the same 10 to 15 minutes as the water test both can be done at the same time. Shake or stir well before use.