Dull marks on marble: how to bring back the shine
Dull marks on marble are etching: acid from lemon, wine, vinegar or a cleaning product has dissolved the top layer of the stone. Small marks on a polished finish come out with a marble polishing paste or powder. Larger and deeper ones need grinding and polishing by a stonemason.
Stain or etching
A stain is something that has soaked into the stone and changed its colour. Etching is damage to the surface: the spot is dull, rough, sometimes lighter. Marble is made mainly of calcite, which reacts with acids.1
What etches marble
- Lemon juice, vinegar, wine, tomato sauce, fizzy drinks.
- Acidic cleaning products, descalers, toilet cleaners.
- Some bathroom cosmetics.
Small marks on a polished finish
Light dull marks can be polished out with a marble polishing paste or powder, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Work a small area at a time, with water, until the shine returns. On a honed finish, use a product for matt surfaces, so you do not leave a shiny patch.
Deeper marks
When the surface is clearly rough or the marks cover a large area, it needs grinding and polishing on site. A stonemason does this.
How to prevent it
- Wipe up acidic liquids straight away.
- Clean with a pH-neutral product, never vinegar.2
- Put coasters under glasses, bottles and cosmetics.
- In the kitchen, cut on a board.
Accept its character
Marble picks up marks over time. For many people that is part of its charm. If you prefer a countertop that always looks new, consider quartzite or sintered stone.
(Sources)
-
Use Natural Stone (Natural Stone Institute), How to Care for Your Marble Countertops
-
Natural Stone Institute, Learn About Cleaning Products for Natural Stone
(Questions)
Does a sealer protect against etching?
No. A sealer limits stains, but it does not protect against acid.
Does etching show on honed marble?
Less than on polished, which is why we often suggest a honed finish in kitchens and bathrooms.
