Marble countertop and vanity care

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Although granite is  a more ideal surface for kitchen countertops due to it's durability, it is limited in style and appearance rivaled by the unique looks and choices you have with marble and other natural stone. Here are some key points to consider as you live, cook and clean in your kitchen with marble countertops.

• CLEANERS! Be very selective in your product choice for cleaning marble countertops and cleaning marble vanities. We have seen too many unfortunate situations where the wrong cleaner was used that caused serious etching. Fortunately, this can be fixed but it is better to avoid it altogether. The product must specifically say "Neutral", meaning non- acidic. Regular marble maintenance goes a long way!
• Keep countertops dry. This includes drips from washing your hands. Hard water or hand soap left to dry on the countertop may lightly etch the surface.
• Use care when moving around cooking pans or other hard objects to minimize the risk of scratches.
• Don't use an overly abrasive pad when wiping clean surfaces as this may scratch as well.
• Clean daily after each use with an appropriate neutral cleaner.
• Seal one or two times per year with a penetrating sealant to maintain sealant integrity and help avoid discoloration from greases and other foods that may penetrate and stain the surface.
• Consider what items you keep on your countertops and place protection between it and the marble. An example might be an absorption mat beneath a flower pot or the same beneath your sink cleaners that are kept on the countertops.

The same principals apply to bathroom vanities as with kitchen countertops. It's critical to use the correct products for cleaning marble vanities and cleaning marble countertops. As mentioned above, granite is more durable but limited in aesthetics when compared to marble. Keep these things in mind as you consider your regular marble maintenance on your bathroom countertops.

• The importance of using neutral cleaners cannot be overstated.
• Consider a decorative trey or mat to place normal bathroom items on your countertop. Things like toothpaste, hairspray, perfume or cologne and many others can and will etch the surface. Avoid contact or wipe up quickly.
• Dry off any drips after washing your hands or face or brushing your teeth.
• Clean daily after each use with an appropriate neutral cleaner.
• Seal one or two times per year with a penetrating sealant to maintain sealant integrity. Penetrating sealers are not bullet proof and are invisible. Normal use and cleaning slowly reduces sealer effectiveness but cannot be detected.
• Be careful when using acidic mirror cleaners or other cleaners on fixtures that may be harmful to the marble. It is better to spray directly on your rag and wipe than mist so it doesn't come in contact with your countertops.