How To Remove Stains From Marble (10 Best Methods)

In this article, we will discuss how to remove stains from marble surfaces. Before we jump to the actual stain removal section let me introduce the causes of stains on the marble surfaces.

Introduction:

Marble is one of the most sophisticated and attractive materials available for use in the house. This magnificent natural stone has long been regarded as a symbol of elegance.

Marble has been used to make everything from marble countertops to some of the world’s most iconic statues. The natural beauty of the stone contributes to its popularity among homeowners.

Marble is a porous natural stone. However, while marble has numerous advantages, it is a porous material, which means liquids and stains can easily penetrate the surface. With keeping that in mind, we should clean any spills on the stone right away.

Your marble may be permanently damaged if you leave them on the surface. However, if you move fast, you can avoid such losses. This article will teach you how to identify the different types of stains that can appear on marble and how to remove them.

Why Do Stains Occur On Marble?

Marble is relatively porous and vulnerable to stains and scratches, despite its seeming strength and durability. This lovely natural stone absorbs liquids rapidly after being carefully polished and sealed, leaving unsightly stains on the delicate surface.

Like any other natural stone, Marble gets its color, veining, and structure from the natural geological process of crystallization.

However, marble is softer and more delicate than other stone finishes; it is more likely to stain or etch if not adequately maintained.

We can remove many marble stains with the proper cleaning and sealing procedures. More significantly, if we know what causes them, we can prevent them too.

How To Remove Stains From Marble

Knowing what stains might arise on marble and how to remove them as fast and effectively as possible is essential for ensuring that your marble floor lasts. Here is a list of stains that every homeowner should be aware of and how to remove them.

Being proactive in preventing damage is always advantageous, mainly because most spill-related events occur by accident. It’s best to keep these products close by if you have a marble floor.

Soap
Baking Soda
Hydrogen peroxide
Ammonia/acetone
Liquid cleaner
Corn starch
Non-acidic rust remover
Marble polishing powder
A sealant
Steel wool
Dust mop

Some of the most common types of stains on marble and their removal process are discussed below:

1) Oil-based Stain

Oil-based stains are probably already recognizable to you if your kitchen floor is constructed of marble. Cooking oil, grease, butter, and milk are just a few of the common household things that can easily penetrate the porous structure of marble, producing persistent yellow or light brown stains on your floor.

How To Remove Oil-based Stain From Marble:

These stains can be removed with lukewarm or warm water and concentrated ammonia on the first try or after a few applications. You’ll need to draw the oil out of the marble to eliminate stains and restore the flawless beauty of your floor.

Wipe away the damaged area with a gentle, liquid cleaner mixed with a few drops of ammonia or acetone. If this method does not properly remove the discoloration, you may need to use a poultice.

One can make their own poultice at home by combining a tablespoon of ammonia with half a cup of hydrogen peroxide, then gradually adding just enough soda bicarbonate until the mixture reaches a thick, creamy consistency.

Apply the final poultice to the damaged regions, wrap it in plastic wrap (ensuring that the edges are securely taped), and let it dry for a day or two. If required, rinse with water, dry, and repeat the process.

2) Organic Stains

Organic stains, including oil-based stains, are some of the most typical stains you’ll encounter if you have a marble floor. The occasional spill of tea, coffee, or wine, for example, might leave visible pink or brown stains if not cleaned soon.

Rings from coffee mugs and other household items are included. The stains can range in hue from light brown to dark brown. Leaves, bird droppings, and flowers are among other sources of organic stains.

Removal Procedure:

Fortunately, these marble stains are extremely simple to remove. To clean a soiled area, combine a few drops of ammonia with 12% hydrogen peroxide.

If your marble floor is deeper in color, you’ll need to be more careful with the hydrogen peroxide because it may lighten the color.

If you want to be cautious, try the mixture on an inconspicuous section of your marble floor to ensure it won’t stain it.

3) Rust Stains

If left on your marble surfaces, nails, screws, and metal cans are just a few examples of materials that can leave rust stains. Rust stains are typically copper or brown in color.

**Rust Stains On Marble**
*Source: azrust.com*

How To Remove Rust Stains From Marble:

Rust stains are among the most challenging stains to remove from marble. Rust stains can, in some situations, be removed with a marble poultice. A liquid commercial rust remover is the most efficient solvent for rust stains.

Make sure that you get a non-acidic rust remover; an acidic rust remover will exacerbate the situation. If you’re lucky and catch the stain early enough, you can reach into the crevices of the marble with a soft wire brush without causing damage to the surface.

4) Water Stains

A frequent stain on marble is water stains. Hard water buildup around sinks and showers can cause these stains, as can a water glass that has been left on a marble countertop for too long.

How To Remove Water Stains From Marble:

Water stains may easily be cleaned using a soft towel and a marble cleaner. If that doesn’t work, use fine steel wool instead. Dry the area around the water stain, then massage the stain in a circular motion until it buffs out of the marble.

In most cases, this will remove the water stains; however, if it doesn’t, you can use a marble cleaner intended to remove hard water stains and soap scum.

5) Mold Stains

In many washroom settings, mold is a widespread issue. Mold can discolor marble bathroom countertops, floors, and other surfaces.

How To Remove Mold Stains From Marble:

You can use a marble cleaner made specifically for mold and mildew stains. This is the simplest and safest method of resolving the issue.

Another excellent approach for eliminating mold spots from marble is to use bleach. Mold is most commonly found in grout or the corners of marble showers. Mold is frequently still present and is a living creature.

The bleach is effective because it kills the mold while also assisting in removing the mold stain that remains after the mold has been removed.

6) Inks Stains

Ink stains are common on marble countertops and other surfaces. Pens, highlighters, markers, and even alcohol can leave ink stains. Water or alcohol-based stains are the most common.

How To Remove Ink Stains From Marble:

A Marble Poultice produced with 6 percent hydrogen peroxide or ammonia can be used to remove ink stains. Stain removal with marble poultice for Ink stains may need to be repeated, but no particular precautions are required.

7) Etch Stains

One of the marble’s deadliest foes is acidic materials. Lemon, orange, and wine juices can all etch your marble. The top layer of the marble wears away as a result of the stain, which results in etch lines.

**Etch Stain On Marble Floor**
*marbleclinic.ca*

How To Remove Etch Stains From Marble:

It can either cause etches or simultaneously etch and stain your favorite marble floor, depending on the substance. A poultice can help you to remove the stain if you deal with both etches and stains.

You may also use cornstarch (which works well for grease stains) or hydrogen peroxide pads (for lighter marble floors); however, a poultice could be your best chance if you’re dealing with a very tenacious stain.

8) Paint Stains

Another problem that marble surfaces confront is paint stains. The stain will usually be the same color as the paint used to create it. The difficulty of removing the stain will be determined by its size.

How To Remove Paint Stains From Marble:

With a lacquer thinner and a razor blade, little amounts of acrylic paint can be scraped off. The razor blade must be used with extreme caution and only as a last resort. If too much pressure is used on the razor blade, it will significantly scratch the marble surface.

You should contact a professional marble cleaner if you have a significant paint spill.

9) Soap Scums:

This isn’t a new concept for those who have marble bathroom flooring. Soap scum can accumulate within the marble pores due to repeated contact with soapy water, causing unsightly stains on your marble floor.

How To Remove Soap Scums Stains From Marble:

Soap scum can be easily removed with just two ingredients:

Water and ammonia.
Mix half a cup of ammonia with a gallon of water and wipe clean.
Just remember not to use too much ammonia, as it can discolor marble surfaces.

Some Preventive Measures From Stains On Marble

Sealing your marble floor every few months is recommended if you want it to be more stain-resistant. While this won’t stain-proof the marble, it will allow you more room to clean up accidents in the future.

Before you begin, speak with your marble manufacturer about the best materials and methods for your particular marble floor.

Once you’ve found your go-to sealer, apply it to your marble by brushing or spraying it all over it. If required, apply a second coat, wipe away any excess sealer, and let it dry for another 24 hours.