Introduction
Marble tile backsplashes can add elegance and style to any kitchen. However, they require special care and cleaning to keep them looking their best. Marble is a natural stone that is porous and prone to staining, etching, and absorbing oils. With the proper techniques and products, you can keep your marble backsplash sparkling clean.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about cleaning and caring for marble tile backsplashes. We will cover recommended cleaning products, methods for daily, weekly, and deep cleaning, polishing and sealing, and how to treat common stains and etch marks. With a little time and effort, you can maintain the original beauty of your marble backsplash for years to come.
Assessing Your Marble Tile
Before determining the best way to clean your marble tile backsplash, you need to assess the stone and finish. Natural marble comes in different grades, finishes, sealants, and levels of porosity. Here are some tips for assessing your marble:
Check the Stone Grade
- Commercial or restaurant grade marble is denser and less porous than residential grades. It will be easier to clean and maintain.
- Residential grade marble is softer and more porous. Take extra care when cleaning to prevent staining and etching.
Identify the Finish
- Polished marble has a shiny, reflective surface that highlights the stone’s veining and colors. It is more prone to etching from acids.
- Honed marble has a matte, satiny smooth finish. It hides etching better than polished marble.
- Textured marble has a rough finish that camouflages etching and stains. However, residue can collect in textured areas.
Test for Sealer
- Drip a few water droplets on the surface. If they bead up, there is a sealer present. If they soak in, the marble is unsealed and sealing is recommended.
- Sealers help prevent staining but need reapplication over time. Refer to the sealing section for more information.
Supplies for Cleaning Marble Tile
Having the proper supplies will make cleaning your marble backsplash much easier. Here are some recommended products:
- pH neutral stone cleaner – Safe for everyday use on natural stone.
- Marble polishing cream or powder – Formulated specifically for polished marble.
- Sealant – Look for an impregnating sealer made for marble.
- Soft cloths – Microfiber or other non-abrasive cloths for wiping.
- Stiff brush – For textured marble, a stiff brush helps agitate dirt.
- Marble etching repair kit – Contains compounds to smooth etching.
- Rubbing alcohol – Helps remove soap scum and hard water deposits.
- Distilled white vinegar – Mixed with water, removes most stains.
Avoid using products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids. Always spot test cleaners in an inconspicuous area first. Harsh chemicals can damage the marble.
Daily Marble Backsplash Cleaning
Daily cleaning is essential for keeping marble tile backsplashes looking their best. Follow these steps:
1. Remove any dirt or debris.
Wipe down the backsplash with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any dust or loose debris. Getting dirt off first prevents scratching the surface when wiping it clean.
2. Mix a pH neutral cleaner and warm water.
Use a cleaner specifically formulated for natural stone. Check the label to verify it has a neutral pH around 7.
3. Apply the solution and wipe down the marble.
Dip the microfiber cloth in the solution and wring it out so it is damp but not dripping. Wipe down the marble using light, circular motions.
4. Rinse with clean water.
Wipe the surface with a cloth dampened with clean water to remove any soap residue. It is important to rinse thoroughly.
5. Dry completely with a soft cloth.
Make sure no moisture is left on the marble’s surface. Allowing water to air dry can leave unsightly spots and streaks.
Repeat this process daily or after preparing meals to prevent staining and buildup. Avoid using powders, oils, or vinegar-based cleaners daily.
Weekly Marble Backsplash Cleaning
In addition to daily cleaning, marble backsplashes should receive a thorough weekly cleaning. Here is an effective routine:
1. Remove dirt and debris.
Give the backsplash a quick dry wipe down to remove any dust or crumbs that have accumulated over the week.
2. Apply a marble-safe cleaner.
Spray a marble-specific cleaning product directly onto the stone. Or mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water.
3. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
Allowing the cleaner to sit gives the active ingredients time to break up grime and grease.
4. Scrub with a soft brush.
Use a soft bristle brush to gently scrub the entire surface of the marble. This agitation helps loosen residue.
5. Rinse thoroughly.
Wipe the backsplash down with a clean, damp microfiber cloth to remove all soap. Rinse a few times until no slipperiness remains.
6. Dry completely.
Go over the stone with a dry terry cloth to absorb any moisture left on the surface.
Weekly cleanings give marble a deeper clean and help prevent buildup of oils and soap.
Deep Cleaning Marble Backsplash
Over time, marble can develop a dull, dirty appearance even with regular maintenance. Twice a year, it helps to do a deep clean.
1. Check for sealant.
Sealant can impede the penetration of some cleaners. Test for a sealer and reapply if needed. Refer to the sealing section.
2. Apply a marble cleaner or mild stripping agent.
Look for a product specifically for natural stone restoration. Apply it liberally to the entire backsplash.
3. Allow product to sit for 5-10 minutes.
This gives the active ingredients time to penetrate and break upbuildup. Don’t allow it to dry on the surface.
4. Scrub with a stiff bristle brush.
Use circular motions to scrub entire marble surface. A stiff brush provides extra agitation to remove grime.
5. Rinse 2-3 times with clean water.
Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear. This prevents residue from resettling into the stone.
6. Blot dry with soft towels.
Rub the marble gently with dry microfiber cloths to absorb excess moisture.
A deep clean restores marble’s original shine and appearance. Regular weekly and daily cleaning will keep it looking its best.
How to Polish Marble Backsplash
Polishing brings out the marble’s inherent shine and beauty. Frequent polishing enhances the glossy surface. Here’s how:
1. Clean the backsplash thoroughly.
Polish can’t penetrate dirt and debris. Make sure you clean deeply first.
2. Shake marble polish well before using.
Polishing products contain settling agents. Shake the bottle vigorously for 30 seconds first.
3. Apply marble polish directly to backsplash.
Use a clean, soft cloth to rub the polish evenly over the entire marble surface.
4. Let the polish sit for 2-3 minutes.
This dwell time allows the polishing agents to interact with the marble. Don’t let the product dry completely.
5. Buff to a shine with microfiber cloths.
Rub the now-hazy marble using circular motions. Maintain pressure as you buff to enhance the glossy finish.
6. Remove any excess residue.
Dampen a clean cloth with water and go over the surface again. This picks up any leftover polish.
7. Allow marble to dry completely.
Make sure no moisture remains before calling the polishing complete.
For optimal results, polish your marble backsplash weekly or bi-weekly. Frequent polishing maintains the marble’s reflective properties.
How to Seal Marble Tile Backsplash
Sealing is key for protecting the porous surface of marble tile. Sealers prevent stains from penetrating the stone. Here are tips for sealing:
Choose a Penetrating Impregnating Sealer
Impregnating sealers soak into marble and solidify within the pores. Look for a brand designed for natural stone.
Thoroughly Clean the Marble First
Sealant can’t fully bond if dirt or residue is present. Clean the backsplash deeply before sealing.
Carefully Read Product Instructions
Different types of sealers require specific application methods. Follow manufacturer directions exactly.
Apply an Even Coat of Sealer
Use a clean cloth or paint pad applicator to wipe on a thin, even layer. Avoid puddling sealer.
Allow Proper Cure Time
Most sealers take 12-24 hours to fully cure. Don’t get the backsplash wet during this time.
Periodically Reapply Sealer
Typically seal marble backsplash every 1-2 years depending on usage and exposure to moisture.
Sealing marble helps prevent staining and etching over time. Be sure to use specialized sealer for natural stone only.
How to Treat Stains on Marble Backsplash
Even with proper sealing, stains can still occur on marble backsplashes. Many stains can be removed with common household products. Here are some options:
Coffee, Tea Stains – Mix baking soda and water into a paste. Gently scrub onto stain and rinse.
Red Wine Stains – Soak a cloth in hydrogen peroxide and lay it over the stain. Let bubble for 15 minutes.
Oil-based Stains – Make a paste with baking soda and dish soap. Allow to sit briefly before rinsing.
Dried Food Stains – Scrape off any chunks and apply a few drops of ammonia. Scrub gently.
Hard Water Stains – Use a cloth soaked in distilled white vinegar. Let sit 5 minutes before rinsing.
Ink Marks – Carefully use an art gum eraser, wiping gently in one direction only.
For stubborn stains, consult a stone restoration professional. Avoid abrasive scrubbing which may damage the marble. Test stain removers first.
How to Treat Etching on Marble Backsplash
Marble is prone to etching from acids found in foods and cleaners. Etching permanently dulls the finish. Here are tips for lessening etching:
Keep Acidic Foods Away From Marble
Prevent contact with lemon juice, vinegar, wine, tomato sauce, and sodas which can all etch marble.
Clean Spills Quickly
Don’t give acidic substances time to interact with marble. Clean spills immediately.
Avoid Cleaners Containing Acids
Even weak acids in some cleaning products can etch marble over time.
Apply Etch Repair Products
Specialty marble restoration products fill in and disguise etch marks.
Consider Mechanically Polishing
For deep etching, mechanically re-polishing may be required by a professional.
With diligence and care, you can minimize etching and other damage to your marble backsplash.
Tips for Maintaining Marble Backsplash
Caring for your marble backsplash doesn’t require special skills, just attentiveness and using proper techniques. Here are some useful maintenance tips:
- Inspect weekly and address stains quickly before they have a chance to set in.
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent possible etching or staining.
- Use coasters under glasses and bottles to prevent leaving rings.
- Avoid using cleaners that contain lemon, vinegar or bleach.
- Reseal marble at least every other year to maintain protectiveness.
- Position rugs and mats at high splash areas to protect from staining agents.
- Don’t let soap or cleaners dry on the surface to prevent streaking.
- Polish high use zones more frequently to maintain the glossy finish.
- Clean kitchen exhaust filter regularly to reduce grease buildup on marble below.
- Have marble re-honed and polished professionally if it becomes excessively etched.
With regular care and by following these maintenance tips, your lovely marble backsplash will stay looking like new for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Marble Tile Backsplash
Many homeowners have additional questions when learning how to clean and care for a marble tile backsplash. Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries:
Can I use vinegar or lemon juice to clean my marble backsplash?
No, never use vinegar, lemon juice, or any other acids on a marble backsplash. Acids can etch and permanently damage marble. Use only a pH neutral stone cleaner.
What is the best way to get rid of hard water marks on marble?
Hard water stains can be removed by soaking a cloth in distilled white vinegar and laying it over the deposits for 5 minutes before rinsing. Be careful not to leave vinegar on too long as it can etch.
My polished marble backsplash looks cloudy. What should I do?
Cloudiness is likely etching or loss of polish. Restore the shine by cleaning thoroughly and applying a marble polishing cream. Frequent polishing helps maintain the gloss.
How can I get rid of dull soap scum on my marble backsplash?
Use a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol to dissolve soap residue. For tough buildup, make a paste of baking soda and water and gently scrub. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
What is the best way to seal a marble backsplash?
Choose an impregnating sealer specifically for natural stone. Read directions carefully. Apply an even coat using a paint pad or soft cloth. Allow proper cure time before getting the backsplash wet.
How often should I reseal my marble backsplash?
Typically, reapply sealer every 1-2 years depending on usage, exposure to moisture, and type of sealer used. Test by dripping water on the surface. If it beads up, sealer is still effective.
Conclusion
A marble backsplash can be the focal point of your kitchen, adding a touch of elegance. While marble requires some careful maintenance, the techniques in this guide will help you keep it looking its best. Avoid abrasive cleaners and be attentive to prevent etching. With regular sealing and polishing, your lovely marble backsplash will maintain its original radiance for years to come. Follow these tips and you can confidently enjoy this beautiful natural stone.