Will Marble Countertops Stain?

Kitchen countertops made of natural marble can stain easily because they are porous. Most marble countertops are professionally sealed to avoid staining and to remain waterproof. However, marble tends to wear out and appear dull after several years, so it needs to be resealed and polished periodically to protect it from stains and other dulling elements.

Marble countertops are susceptible to organic stains such as tea, coffee, soft drinks, and water rings. It is advisable to use coasters or place mats when setting down beverage drinks or food on a marble countertop. Should the beverage spill on the marble, make sure to wash it and wipe it off immediately. Marble countertops can also be stained by cooking oil or oil-based cosmetics such as lotions and creams. Rust and acids can also affect and stain marble countertops. Acidic liquids like carbonated beverage, fruit juice, and cleaning agents can etch the marble surface, make it dull, and change its texture. Once this happens, the stain can only be countered with professional polishing.

Depending on its depth, age, and type, stains can be removed from marble countertops. Listed below are the recommended chemicals that can be used to remove different types of stains.

Organic stains (coffee, tea, colors bleached from paper, soft drinks, and textiles).

Immediately wipe the spills if you can. If the stain is new, wipe it off with a damp cloth and dishwashing detergent. Rinse, and wipe dry with a clean cloth. If the stain has aged and cannot be removed with the detergent, soak a cloth, tissue, or napkin in 20% peroxide with a few drops of ammonia and place it over the stain. Let the cloth remain on the stain for an hour. If the stain is still there, let the cloth sit there for a few more hours and regularly moisten the cloth with the solution until the stain lifts. You can also cover the damp cloth with plastic wrap to lock in its moisture.

Oil stains (cooking oils, butter, lotion, and hand cream).

Immediately dab the affected surface with absorbent fine powder (preferably cornstarch), brush it off, and then reapply once more. Let it stand for 24 hours. Scrub the area with a stiff brush soaked in detergent solution. You can also wipe it with poultice soaked in ammonia. If neither one works, make a poultice with acetone or dry cleaning fluid and apply it on the stained surface. However, do not leave it on too long because it can further damage and etch the marble surface.

Rust stains (from metal items such as metal container, lamps, and others)

Any commercial rust stain remover can remove the stain. Follow the directions carefully. Do not let the rust stain remover stay for too long because it may contain acid that can etch the surface of the marble countertop.

Acids (fruit juice, carbonated beverages, and cleaning agents).

Wipe the spill with a wet cloth immediately to prevent it from etching the marble. Finish by wiping the surface with a clean, dry cloth. If the stain has already etched the marble, then the countertop requires polishing.