Marble is a rather soft and porous stone that must be cleaned carefully. Marble floors require extra care because they are often passed by many people. Fortunately, there are several safe ways to clean marble floors. Use the right cleaning products and avoid things that can damage the floor so you can clean marble floors better.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Mopping the Floor
Step 1. Use hot water
No matter you use a solution mix or plain water to wash the floor, always use hot water. Hot water is great for cleaning dirt. With hot water, you don't need to use too much of a harsh solution that could damage the marble.
Step 2. Try to use distilled water
This water is made by removing minerals and various other impurities. Using distilled water can reduce the risk of discoloration or staining on marble floors.
Distilled water can be purchased at most home supply stores and drugstores for a low price
Step 3. Mix the detergent with water
Pour the detergent into a bucket of heated distilled water. Follow the directions given on the soap packaging and dissolve it with an appropriate amount of water. Stir this mixture until smooth. Be sure to use a soap with a neutral pH.
If you wish, you can use factory-made marble cleaning products. Just follow the directions on the bottle, then clean the floor like you would a detergent and water mixture. Some of the products you can use include S. O. S, Mr. Muscle, or ADT
Step 4. Use a soft mop
Take a mop with a soft mop head (preferably one made of microfiber), and dip it in the detergent-water mixture. Squeeze the mop head to remove excess water so you can mop the floor systematically. Do short, back and forth rubbing motions.
Rinse and wring out the mop head when you've cleaned 1 to 2 square meters of floor. Determination of this floor area will vary depending on the level of dirtiness
Step 5. Mop the floor again using clean water
After the floor has been mopped with the detergent mixture, you should mop it again using clean cold water. By mopping it again, all the dirt and debris left on the floor will be removed. In addition, this action will also clean the remaining soap suds that stick to the floor.
Step 6. Change the water frequently
When mopping floors, make sure you change the cleaning mixture or water you use frequently. Otherwise, the marble floor may be streaked or scratched by the debris in the mop.
If the water is brown or full of dirt, throw it away. Refill the bucket with fresh water (and soap if desired)
Step 7. Dry the floor using a soft towel
Since marble is a relatively porous stone, it's a good idea to wipe off any remaining cleaning solution and water as often as possible. Otherwise, the solution may seep into the marble and change its color.
Change wet and soiled towels if necessary
Part 2 of 3: Avoiding Damage to the Floor
Step 1. Wash the floor as soon as anything is spilled
All types of spills that fall on marble should be cleaned up immediately as this stone is porous and can absorb spills. If something stays there for a long time, the marble may be stained or discolored.
Take a dampened microfiber mop and use the cloth to wipe up any spills on the marble floor
Step 2. Use a solution with a neutral pH
Cleaners with neutral pH will not damage marble. So, don't use cleansers that contain acids. Acidic cleaners can scratch and fade marble's luster. Some materials that should not be used:
- Vinegar
- Ammonia
- Citrus-based cleansers (such as sweet orange or lemon).
- Cleaner specially designed for tile floors.
Step 3. Don't let the marble floor dry on its own
Allowing marble floors to dry on their own is a very wrong act. If allowed to dry on their own, the water or solution will seep into the marble, causing the floor to become discolored and stained.
Step 4. Protect the marble with a sealant (seal or material to cover the marble surface)
The best way to prevent stains on the floor is to periodically seal the marble. Look for products designed specifically for marble. Read the instructions provided and apply the sealant on the marble surface. Depending on the product (and its use), you may need to reapply the sealant every 3 to 5 years.
- Make sure you've covered other surfaces, such as tile, wood, or grout (the layer that fills the gaps between tiles), with tape or plastic.
- If you don't want to seal the floor yourself, contact a professional.
Step 5. Use a felt pad to remove the blisters
If there are scuffs or other scratches that won't go away with normal cleaning, use a felt pad to remove them. Dip the pad into the water and detergent mixture, then rub it on the marble gently following the groove.
Do not scrub in circular motions as this can damage the marble
Part 3 of 3: Removing Debris from the Floor
Step 1. Clean the floor using a soft broom
Use a dusting rag or broom with soft bristles to clean marble floors. Sweep the floor until it is completely clean. Pay special attention to areas along a wall or door.
Step 2. Be careful when using the vacuum cleaner
If you want to use a vacuum cleaner, be careful when using it so as not to damage the floor. The plastic in the nozzle or vacuum cleaner can scratch the marble. So, use the vacuum cleaner with care.
If you have a central vacuum system at home, you can attach a soft patch tool to the nozzles. However, first test the appliance in a hidden area (such as behind a door) before using it
Step 3. Use rugs and rugs throughout the house
Rugs and rugs can help collect debris making it easier for you to sweep and vacuum the floor. In addition, rugs and carpets can protect marble areas that people frequently walk through from being scratched.
