The Best Way to Clean Marble Tiles

As more people use marble tiles in their kitchens, bathrooms and entryways, the demand for products to clean this material is growing. With proper maintenance and upkeep, it’s not difficult to clean marble tiles at all. Floors should be swept regularly with a soft broom, and they can be wiped off periodically with a damp cloth. Marble tile should be sealed and polished a few times a year.

To keep marble sparkling, homeowners should be sure to keep it free from routine dust and dirt. They should sweep the floor often with a soft bristled broom or vacuum it to pick up any loose dirt. This needs to be done at least two or three times a week, if not every day.

Homeowners should be aware that loose dirt can easily be ground in as people walk across the floor. If visitors have been walking around in dirt or mud, an individual might ask them to remove their shoes before walking on the marble tiles. Sand, dirt and other debris left on the bottom of the shoe is abrasive, and it will first scratch the marble and then grind the dirt into the scratches.

Many times, all that’s needed to clean marble tiles is a warm, damp mop or cloth, especially if there are spill prone kids — and adults — in the house. Fortunately, as marble has become a popular flooring option, more commercial products formulated to keep it clean have become available. Homeowners may want to have some on hand in case of accidental spillage or for regular weekly or monthly cleanings. People should be sure to read the label and follow the instructions exactly.

While vinegar is touted as a great household cleaner, it’s not recommended to clean marble tiles. The acid in vinegar can damage the surface. Soaps, even mild detergents, aren’t recommended either. If the homeowner isn't using a special marble cleaner, he or she should use warm water only.

It’s not always best to let the tiles air dry. Instead, people can get a nice fluffy towel and use it to dry the floor thoroughly. Marble tiles tend to spot and stain if they remain wet.

Every few months, it’s a good idea to seal and polish the tiles. The polish will help the floor to shine, while the sealant will protect the material from everyday dirt and grime and make it easier to clean on a regular basis. Local home improvement stores are likely to have plenty of options for marble tile cleaners, sealants and polishing agents. People who aren't sure which product is best should contact the tile manufacturer or the person who installed the flooring. Either one is sure to have some good recommendations.