Substances You Might Not Know Will Etch Marble or Stone
When taking care of your marble and stone, it is important to know what substances can cause long-term damage, stains, etching, and discoloration to the surface. Here are some everyday products and cleaning solutions you need to avoid to best care for your marble and keep it in top condition.
Acid & Alkaline
There’s a wide variety of acidic substances that cause natural stone or marble damage and etching, but it’s important to note what makes it acidic. Acidity is measured on a pH scale, and the scale goes from 0-14 (basic to acidic). If a substance measures with a pH level of 7 or below then it is acidic-based and it should avoid contact with your natural stone.
Products high in alkaline, which include a lot of cleaning and kitchen products, should also be cautioned in contact with marble. Since marble is so porous, the alkaline salts in these products can have a chemical reaction when exposed to the surface, leaving permanent deep marks and stains that can not be cleaned or wiped off.
The following list of products could damage your marble upon contact.
Juice : Lemon, lime, tomato, orange, cranberry, and even kid’s fruit juices can be absorbed into marble and create darker spots on countertops and floors. Depending on the color of the juice, the acid can absorb into the stone, leaving a darker or lighter-colored spot. It can also dull the stone’s shiny finish.
Soda : A majority of colas contain phosphoric acid that rate high on the pH level scale (2.5 to 3.5). It’s important to clean up spills immediately.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner : Toilet bowl cleaners are the most acidic product that you can use in your home. With a pH level as low as 1, they can wreak long-term havoc on your stone and marble floors. To steer clear of this issue, use a product that is naturally-based and free of this acidic threat.
Vinegar : Many people consider vinegar to be the greatest cleaner on earth, but it can damage marble upon contact almost instantly. Replace it with a neutral cleaner that is more suitable for natural stone surfaces.
Milk : Any milk products can damage your natural stone as it contains lactic acid which can rank from anywhere to 4.5 to 6.5 on the pH scale. So make sure to keep those sippy cup lids on tight when on your marble countertop.
Ammonia and Heavy Duty Cleaners : Many of the cleaners under our sink have a high level of alkaline and have damaging effects on marble. Consider replacing these out with natural home products that are safer for your stone surfaces.
Restoring your etched and damaged Stone/Marble
You may find a slew of DIY solutions, but be careful to read up on ingredients so as to not to damage your surface more. If you have stains or etch marks on your natural stone surfaces, contact an expert like Castles Home Service to help you professionally restore your stone and ask to learn more about long-term preventative measures that they recommend, like their professionally installed solution – MORE™ Surface Care AntiEtch™.