How to Remove Stains from Marble

Marble is an elegant, timeless material that adds instant luxury to any home. However, it is also a porous rock that can easily stain and discolor. If you’ve noticed stains on your marble countertops or floors, don’t worry. With proper care, you can remove these unsightly blemishes. In this guide, we’ll discuss how to remove stains from marble, whether you have honed or polished marble.

Identify the Stain

The first step in removing stains from marble is to identify what kind of stain you’re dealing with. The cleaning method will depend on the type of stain and how deeply it has penetrated the surface. Common types of stains include oil-based stains, water-based stains, and organic stains like coffee or wine. If you’re not sure what kind of stain you have, try dabbing a small area with a cloth soaked in warm water. If the stain disappears, it’s likely a water-based stain. If it does not, it’s probably an oil-based stain.

Blot the Stain

If the marble stain is fresh, the first thing you want to do is blot it as quickly as possible. For liquid stains, use a clean cloth to blot up as much of the spill as you can. Avoid wiping or rubbing the stain, as this can spread it around and make it worse. For oily stains, you can use cornstarch or baking soda to absorb the excess oil before blotting it up. Leave the cornstarch or baking soda on the surface for several minutes before wiping it away.

Use a Marble-Safe Cleaner

Once you’ve identified the stain, it’s time to clean it. You’ll want to use a marble-safe cleaner that won’t damage the surface. Avoid using acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon juice, as these can etch the marble and cause more damage. Instead, opt for a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for marble. Apply the cleaner to the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it away with warm water. Be sure to dry the surface completely with a clean, dry cloth.

Try a Poultice

If the stain is particularly stubborn, you may need to try a poultice. A poultice is a paste made of a cleaning agent and an absorbent material like baking soda or talcum powder. Mix the ingredients until you have a paste of the consistency of sour cream, then spread the poultice evenly over the stained area. Cover the poultice with plastic wrap and let it sit for several hours (or overnight) to absorb the stain. Scrub away the poultice with warm water and a non-abrasive sponge, then rinse the surface with water and dry it completely.

Consult the Professionals

If you’re still having trouble removing stains from your marble, don’t hesitate to reach out to the professionals. Signature Marble and Granite has years of experience working with marble and can provide custom solutions to all your marble cleaning and maintenance needs. We serve Northern Utah, including Utah County, Salt Lake County, Davis County, Summit County, and Weber County. Whether you need advice on cleaning stained marble or want to schedule a professional cleaning, we’re here to help. Contact us today at (801) 473-6787 to learn more.