The marble it is one of the materials that most dress a room. Using this limestone it has survived the different eras since the Ancient Age. It is a soft and delicate stone that provides an elegant and refined touch wherever it is and that requires certain care.
From a geological point of view, marble is a metamorphic rock compact formed from limestone rocks that, subjected to high temperatures and pressures, reach a high degree of crystallization. A metamorphic rock is that “rock that has changed”, those that are formed from other materials already existing on the earth’s surface.
Due to its characteristics, marble is one of the worldwide favorite materials used in decoration and in art, in history. It is believed that it was used for the first time in Turkey by the Hittites, in the years 1600 BC. Today it is present in many houses, in different places and with different uses. And therefore the maintenance they need must be according to the material and its circumstances. Let’s see how to clean the most common types of marble with homemade products.
Marble is usually found in quarries in the open air or in caves, either at ground level or at great depth. And because each marble vein is shaped by a unique set of circumstances, marble from different quarries is often strikingly different.
Formerly the extraction was done manually with wooden wedges, halters, ropes, picks and shovels. Nowadays the extraction of marble is not only expensive but it is dangerous, since explosives and heavy machinery are used, in a single quarry it is possible to find several types of marble, hence the quality of the marble can vary, currently there are high-quality marbles, medium and low, likewise the prices of each one are managed.
Four countries extract almost half of the world’s marble: Italy, China, India and Spain. However, many other countries also produce marble.
How to clean white marble
White marble is the main material of many floors, bathroom countertops and due to its resistance to heat and shock it is also present in many kitchens. To clean white marble we will do something common to all types of marble, which is to use a neutral soap. This is a rule of thumb.
1. Use a mild soap, pH neutral and non-abrasive. Regular dish soap works well. You can mix some of this soap in hot water in a spray bottle or put a few drops on a damp cloth.
2. Clean the marble surface with this damp cloth, rinse well and dry immediately. Be careful not to use too much soap, as you can end up leaving a film.
If the marble has any mancha, half a lemon will serve as a cleaner. It will be enough to rub the lemon on the stain and leave it to act for a few minutes, the less the better because the acid can damage the material so go little by little. Afterwards, rinse and wipe it with a dry cloth.
4. Can also be used peroxide to clean the marble. To achieve an excellent finish on natural stone, it is necessary to mix a portion of this product with water, and apply it directly to the surface of the marble. In this case, it is not necessary to rinse, but it is necessary to avoid excess liquid.
How to clean black marble
Basic cleaning, to remove dust and dirt, will always be the same as that we have reported for white marble. There is no more mystery. Black marble, such as Marquina and Canfranc, usually has a use and care similar to white marble.
1. Also as a measure applicable to all marbles to lengthen their perfect maintenance, the best is wipe it with a damp cloth from time to time. That way you are removing dust and dirt and restoring its shine to the marble. Another recommendation is that you dry and air the area frequently to prevent moisture.
2. Of course, remember that you must clean immediately every liquid spilled to prevent the marble from absorbing it. Yes, also if it is about black marble.
How to clean travertine marble
This material is a classic that is used in floors and bathrooms and suffers from damp spots and molds.
1. Use mild soap and warm water to clean travertine marble from floors or bathrooms. With a soft brush you can rub gently to remove any traces of soap or mold, and then wipe the surface with a damp cloth.
2. If there are stains, combine equal parts of water and baking soda with a splash of your regular cleaning product.
3. Mix until you have a paste and rub into the travertine marble that you want to clean. Then cover the surface of the stain with a thick layer of the mixture and let it rest for 15 to 30 minutes.
How to clean Indian green marble
This marble is very strong and compact. It usually has very few streaks or, on the contrary, it also tends to have very marked white streaks. It is one of the favorites in interior design for the very special atmosphere it creates.
To keep the green marble in good condition, follow the recommendations explained for the rest of the colors and, in the case of a bathroom, ventilate the room correctly to avoid the appearance of mold.
How to clean a marble headstone
Like anything else made of marble, it can be cleaned with neutral soap and water. It is advisable to rinse very well and it is best to do it with a hose when that is possible.
Tombstones that are very dirty or have traces of lime will need some extra to make them look like new. The easiest option is to use a somewhat aggressive product (never bleach), such as vinegar. This way you will be able to remove those embedded layers on the tombstone. In any case, it will also have to be rinsed later with abundant water.
Types of stains
If you are faced with a stain that won’t go away, you will need to consider taking more serious action. Either buy a specific product or try these tricks first. Each spot may need a different treatment.
– For grease or oil stains kitchen you will need bleaching products, or water with ammonia without rubbing too much.
– If the stain is coffee, tea, or soft drinks, use peroxide or ammonia.
– In case of oxideYou will need to use a liquid cleaner or rust remover with any absorbent material.
How to do a homemade ‘polish’
On the other hand, keep in mind that if the marble is damaged, but not severe enough to be repaired by a professional, you can polish it with a mixture of baking soda and water. Create the paste with these two ingredients and spread it on the marble. Let it sit for a few minutes and remove it to rinse with water and clean with a dry cloth. It will be like new!
Paul is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment and general news. He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established herself as a respected voice in the industry.
