Clean Marble Before Sealing

Mix 12 percent hydrogen peroxide with several drops of ammonia and apply it to the stained tile with a cloth.

Clean marble before sealing.

Ensure that the tile is totally dry before applying the sealer if unsure wait 48 hours after cleaning. Before you apply your sealer you ll need to clean. Wipe sudsy water on the counter with a soft cloth or sponge. Ensure that the tile is clean and free from all residues detergents grout cement oil wax and other stains.

For most organic food stains the marble institute recommends cleaning with a solution of 12 hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia. Before sealing your marble floor thoroughly clean it with a ph neutral cleaner made for marble. You should only use hydrogen peroxide to clean your marble tile if it is a light color. 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.

Let the floor dry completely. Do not use cleaners containing acid including vinegar which can etch the stone. Rinse the surface thoroughly after washing with the soap solution and dry with a soft cloth. 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.

The mineral oil should sit for the same 10 to 15 minutes as the water test both can be done at the same time. This will remove dirt but won t heal any etching or stains. Look for an acid resistant impregnator sealer in your local home improvement store. Too much cleaner or soap may leave a film and cause streaks.

A secret in knowing how to clean marble countertops. Do not use products that contain lemon vinegar or other acids on marble or limestone. Prepare with the correct tile floor care products. If the mineral oil leaves no stain then your marble or granite is not in need of sealing.

If you spilled anything oil based like a vinaigrette. Shake or stir well before use. Even with the application of a penetrating sealer you will merely narrow the voids making them less impervious to penetrating liquids by capillary action. At the end of the prescribed period wipe up the mineral oil with a soft clean absorbent cloth.

Mild soap and hot water will do just fine. You don t need specialty cleaners for marble. Test the marble sealer. Use a clean damp cloth to wipe the hydrogen peroxide off and thoroughly dry the surface with a soft clean towel.