Marble countertops have an enduring reputation for timeless beauty and elegance. But this luxurious natural stone also gets some flak for being high-maintenance and easily damaged. Are the rumors really true though?
Myth: Marble Stains Constantly
This is probably the biggest misconception about marble countertops. According to the experts at Bedrock Quartz, when properly sealed, marble handles messes quite well if you clean up spills promptly before they can soak in and stain.
While marble is a porous stone that can absorb liquids, a high-quality penetrating sealant creates a protective barrier to guard against staining. Reseal this sealant annually, and your marble’s pristine appearance stays nicely safeguarded even in a hardworking kitchen.
Myth: Marble Requires Constant Upkeep
Don’t buy into the hype that marble countertops demand tons of tedious, intensive maintenance routines. With just a few easy habits, you can keep these surfaces in gorgeous condition for years.
For day-to-day cleaning, simply wipe down the marble using a soft cloth dampened with warm water and mild dish soap or specialized marble cleaner. Dry the surface completely when finished to prevent water stains or erosion of the sealant.
While some basic cleaning is involved, caring for marble really isn’t much more work than maintaining any other quality countertop material when you get into a regular routine.
Myth: Marble Scratches and Etches Easily
Yes, marble countertops can get scratched by knives or scorched by hot cookware if you are careless. But that is the case with pretty much any countertop surface besides damage-proof solid surfacing.
To prevent unsightly scratches and etch marks on marble, simply use cutting boards rather than slicing directly on the stone. Always use trivets under hot pots and pans too. It’s an easy habit that eliminates those common countertop catastrophes.
As for etching from acidic substances, that can be mitigated by promptly wiping spills and using a robust sealant. The sealant basically makes the marble stain-resistant, so minor splashes of vinegar or citrus juices won’t create permanent dull marks.
Myth: Marble Turns Yellow Over Time
While it’s true that marble can potentially develop a warmer yellow or amber patina in some cases, this usually comes from excessively harsh cleaner use rather than just normal aging of the stone itself.
When properly cared for using pH-balanced, non-acidic cleaners specifically designed for marble, these countertops readily retain their bright, fresh appearance for decades. Incorrect cleaning products can gradually cause etching and discoloration, though.
Although marble’s light colors tend to show more wear over time compared to darker granite or soapstone, proper cleaning and sealing slows this natural patina process dramatically. Occasional professional resurfacing can restore marble’s brand-new vibrancy at any point too.
Myth: Marble Countertops Lose Their Shine
If your marble countertops seem to be losing their trademark polish and radiant glow, this is likely because of either soap residue buildup or water stains from improper drying after cleaning.
To fix this, mix up a solution of warm water and a few drops of ammonia. Buff this mixture into the dull areas using a soft cloth, then rinse completely and dry. This basic cleaning method dissolves stuck-on residue and hard water spots to restore marble’s original lustrous finish.
You can also ask your installer about applying a permanent protective topical sealant over the marble during installation. Also called a marble renew treatment, this extra clear coat helps deflect water stains and etching over time.
Conclusion
With appropriate care and cleaning habits, those gorgeous marble countertops can maintain their luster and elegant look for a lifetime in your home. While marble does require some upkeep, sticking to the right routine helps this natural stone live up to its timeless reputation.
