Are You Using Vinegar For Your Marble Cleaning or Other Floors? You Need to Stop that NOW!
Using vinegar for marble cleaning might seem harmless, but it can cause lasting damage to your floors, grout, and stone surfaces. Discover how to clean marble floors the right way, why vinegar isn’t safe for marble, and which natural marble cleaning solutions truly work, without risking dullness or etching. But what’s the real story? […]
Using vinegar for marble cleaning might seem harmless, but it can cause lasting damage to your floors, grout, and stone surfaces. Discover how to clean marble floors the right way, why vinegar isn’t safe for marble, and which natural marble cleaning solutions truly work, without risking dullness or etching.
But what’s the real story? Does vinegar genuinely work on marble floors or on any floor type, for that matter? Or is it now a leading cause of self-inflicted damage to acid-sensitive substrates such as marble, travertine, and limestone, and could it be linked to stained grout and stone due to its negative impact on surface seals?
Let’s delve into it.
Unmasking Vinegar: The Go-To DIY Cleaning Agent
Vinegar is often praised as a go-to DIY cleaner. It’s natural, affordable, and commonly used for everything from disinfecting kitchens to removing hard water stains. Many homeowners even rely on it as a marble cleaner or a general-purpose floor cleaner.
However, vinegar is not safe for marble. It is one of the most common causes of long-term damage to natural stone surfaces.
Before you reach for the bottle, it is important to understand how vinegar affects marble cleaning and what safer alternatives you can use.
Effects on Different Types of Surfaces
Marble Cleaning, Travertine Cleaning, Limestone, and Concrete:
The acid in vinegar reacts with calcium carbonate in marble, travertine, limestone, and concrete, causing etching and dullness. Etching can appear as rings, spots, or faded patches, especially after regular mopping with vinegar.
You might think it’s cleaner, but the natural shine is being destroyed. If you’re truly aiming for long-term cleanliness and preservation, how to clean marble floors begins with avoiding vinegar.
The images below depict a red-brown floor restored after being repeatedly cleaned with vinegar.
Note the white faded appearance in the ‘BEFORE’ image. If the ‘AFTER’ floor is cleaned with vinegar, it will incur damage once again.
Restored Floor After Being Repeatedly Cleaned with Vinegar
The calcium carbonate composition of marble floor and travertine reacts with the acid in vinegar, leading to chemical damage associated with the marble dissolving at the point of contact.
Repeated vinegar use on marble floors chemically dissolves the surface layer. Over time, the natural luster disappears. If damage occurs, professional restoration is often the only solution.
Terrazzo
Terrazzo is generally constructed with marble chips suspended in either a concrete or epoxy base.
Chips
The marble chips/chunks are susceptible to etching, as noted above with marble. The floor will appear to exhibit a faded color.
Terrazzo can also be made with non-marble chips where granite or glass may be used to avoid this issue.
Base
A concrete base can be etched, whereas an epoxy base does NOT have this issue.
Tile & Grout:
While vinegar can be effective for cleaning ceramic or porcelain tiles, it is not suitable for sanded or non-sanded grout. In this case, it is not the grout material that is generally the issue but rather the dyes used to color the grout and/or the penetrating sealer used to seal the grout.
Dyes – Most grouts are cementitious in nature, meaning they are naturally gray in color and then dyed to the color we see and select. Vinegar can leach the dye out of the grout, lightening it, but in reality, it’s reversing the color towards its undyed natural light gray color.
As such, the observation that stained grout has been lightened is often mistaken as cleaning but in reality, it is a loss of color dye. You don’t often hear people report vinegar restored a clean surface; instead, you hear people say it “made it better.”
This refers to their mistaken belief that lighter equals less dirty.
Seals – Most grouts are originally sealed with a penetrating silicone-based sealer. These sealers perform excellently at neutral pH, but break down, reverting back to their original raw materials at low pH values.
Consequently, cleaning with vinegar effectively washes away the grout’s protective seal, transforming it into a concrete sponge which WILL absorb dirty mop water during the cleaning process and become stained.
As such, vinegar cleaning of grout WILL contribute to grout staining. (The exception is epoxy grout, which does not require penetrating sealer sealing being naturally non-porous; epoxy grout is an exception)
How confident are we about the damaging effect of vinegar and other acids on grout seals? We utilize this effect to remove any residual sealer when MARBLELIFE is installing a new infusing sealer with a non-acid-sensitive chemistry to overcome this very issue.
So we use this performance intentionally to remove seals, allowing us to install a MARBLELIFE COLORSEAL that is NOT acid sensitive and offers better protection for the grout once we have cleaned and restored it.
Granite:
Granite is NOT susceptible to direct acid attack, but the sealers used to protect the granite against staining are just as vulnerable as grout sealers as they utilize the same base chemistry.
If you have been told that granite does not need to be sealed because it has been resinated, take heed. This presumes that the resination process fills ALL pores throughout the stone.
That is not the intent, and it is not marketed as a sealer. Resination is performed to enhance the stone’s transportability by adding flexibility. In simpler terms, it reduces brittleness so the stone won’t crack during overseas shipping.
However, open pores still remain, especially those that start at the surface but do not extend all the way through the slab.These surface pores are still susceptible to staining.
Slate:
Slate surfaces are known for their natural beauty and texture. Vinegar’s acidity will remove the grout sealer protection, resulting in grout staining over time. It can also damage or remove the oils used to enrich the slate’s color or to provide a “wet” look. If one has slate, reach out to MARBLELIFE.
>The restorative services and effects available for slate today are light years ahead of what was available just ten years ago.
Shower:
>Vinegar is often used to remove hard water stains, which is precipitated calcium carbonate, the same material marble, limestone, and travertine are made of.
Therefore, any acidic cleaners targeting hard water stains will damage these surfaces directly and contribute to grout staining. MARBLELIFE has processes to remove hard water stains tailored to the surface on which it is found to avoid such damage.
It is crucial to consider the specific characteristics and sensitivities of each surface before using vinegar as a cleaner. While it may be effective for some surfaces, it can lead to undesirable consequences for others.
>For optimal results and to protect the beauty and longevity of your surfaces, it is advisable to seek professional care and use products specifically designed for each surface type.
If in doubt, CALL MARBLELIFE. MARBLELIFE has offices throughout North America and offers a FREE CONSULTATION. It is far faster and cheaper to make a single call than to experiment blindly, as each experiment may be creating more damage, and subsequently more work and cost to repair.
MARBLELIFE’s professional CARE network helps clients maintain their surfaces quickly, easily, and affordably
The MARBLELIFE Advantage: Bringing Surfaces Back-to-Life
Over the years, MARBLELIFE has become a leader in marble cleaning and stone restoration throughout North America. From homes to large commercial properties, their trained technicians and proprietary processes deliver safe and stunning results.
They use stone-safe products that are scientifically developed products that clean thoroughly without harming the stone. If you’ve already experienced damage from vinegar, MARBLELIFE can help restore and protect your surface.
Why Trust MARBLELIFE: The Science Behind Beautiful Surfaces
MARBLELIFE’s approach is built on science and experience. They understand the chemistry of each material and tailor cleaning solutions to each surface type.
Unlike vinegar, which is a general-purpose acid, their products are engineered to deliver safe and lasting results. It’s the difference between damaging your floors and preserving them for years.
>By taking into account the chemical properties of each surface, the company is able to tailor its products and services to deliver optimal results.
MARBLELIFE Solutions: Excellence in Every Space
>Whether you’re a homeowner with marble countertops in your kitchen or a commercial building manager with travertine floors in your lobby, MARBLELIFE has a solution for you.
>With more than 50 locations throughout North America, you can trust MARBLELIFE to provide top-quality care for all of your residential and commercial spaces.
MARBLELIFE’s services are more than just surface-level. We dive deep to resolve the root causes of your surface issues, delivering results that last. By identifying and addressing underlying problems, MARBLELIFE ensures that your surfaces remain in pristine condition, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
So, when it comes to preserving your surfaces, you might want to think twice before reaching for that vinegar bottle.
Summary: Think Before You Clean
>While vinegar can be an effective cleaner for certain situations, it’s important to consider the potential damage it can cause to delicate surfaces.
It may not be the best option for your marble, travertine, limestone, granite, or grout surfaces. It’s important to understand what you’re cleaning with and what potential damage it could cause.
If you’re unsure, consult a professional. Investing in the right products and services can save you from costly restorations down the line. If you’ve been using vinegar to clean your surfaces, it may be time to transition to an appropriate cleaner for your surface type.
So why wait? Contact MARBLELIFE now for a consultation or to explore their range of specialized products. Remember, keeping your home or business space looking its best doesn’t have to be a struggle.
With MARBLELIFE’s expert care, maintaining the shine and grandeur of your surfaces has never been easier.
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Quick Tips for Removing Hard Water Stains from Marble Surfaces without Damage at Home
Hard water stains can mess up the beauty that marble surfaces add to ours home, making it difficult to preserve their appearance.
Further, the application of an inappropriate marble cleaning solutions at home could result in major damage or create conditions for more severe and complicated downstream problems, like penetrative staining or grout staining.
So, let's see a few good things that you can try at your home to help clean hard water stains off your marble surfaces.
What Exactly Are Hard Water and Hard Water Stains and Why Should You Approach them With Care ?
Hard water stains on marble surfaces are the result of the precipitation of CaCO3. Hard water contains high levels of minerals such as Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3). These naturally occurring impurities are left behind when hard water evaporates, forming a hard white powder deposit on the surface. This "crud" or precipitate collects around faucets and other water sources and can be difficult to remove once deposited. Many homeowners attempt marble cleaning at home using acidic products or household remedies, but these methods often do more harm than good. While they may provide temporary stain removal, they will also damage the surface. They can remove the seal from your grout, setting you up for a different staining issue in the future, i.e., grout staining. For years, acidic substances like vinegar, phosphoric acid, or harsh masonry cleaners have been used to remove these precipitated calcium carbonate deposits or stains. They do remove the CaCO3 precipitate. The issue is that your marble is also made of the same material, i.e., CaCO3, and this method cannot discern between the two. As you attempt marble cleaning to remove the surface deposit, you are also micro-pitting the marble, gradually losing shine, creating a new visual issue, and removing any seal on the marble, which is indeed a major and complex issue to tackle. However, even if the surface is not sensitive to acids, such as granite, porcelain, or ceramic tile, using an acidic "cleaner" or "solution" will strip seals from the surface (granite) and surrounding grout, leading to eventual grout staining. The biggest issue here is that it is sneaky, as the initial result looks good. Still, the downside appears over time as a direct result of our ongoing cleaning, which solubilizes dirt and oil that can now penetrate the unsealed surface to settle when the water evaporates, creating a dark stained grout. This sounds like a complex problem to deal with. But MARBLELIFE can fix it if you recognize this situation as already existing.How Can MARBLELIFE be a Solution?
MARBLELIFE, a professional hard surface restoration company, offers specialized solutions to remove hard water stains from marble, travertine, limestone, and grout surfaces that will differ from removing the stains from other less sensitive surfaces. MARBLELIFE's understanding and restorative expertise allow greater flexibility to create solutions tailored to the stained surface. MARBLELIFE can employ restoration, re-polishing, and resealing techniques to eliminate water stains efficiently, ensuring the surface is undamaged, and retain its appropriate sealing protections when complete. Additionally, MARBLELIFE can provide valuable guidance on preventing or rectifying similar situations in the future, allowing you to eliminate the cause, without which this issue will re-occur. Many do-it-yourself (DIY) remedies often result in additional restoration work for MARBLELIFE in the long term. This translates to short-term success but a downstream expense to you. It is recommended to take professional assistance for effective, efficient, and long-lasting results. We understand the frustration hard water stains create and want to help you avoid using harmful products that can damage your marble or mark your otherwise clean surface appearance over time. This blog post provides simple tricks for removing hard water stains from marble surfaces without damaging them. By following our tips, you can effectively remove water stains without causing any harm to the surface or grout and keep your marble surfaces looking beautiful for years to come.Tips for Removing Hard Water Stains from Marble Surfaces without Damage
While many standard household cleaners are available for removing hard water stains from marble, travertine, and limestone, it's important to be cautious when using them. Marble and other natural stones are surprisingly susceptible to damage from many cleaning products and hard water stain solutions. Using the wrong one can result in unsightly etches that are even harder to remove than the original water stain or open the surface to staining by other products. Water stains are typically on the surface; once a seal is removed, it opens the surface up to be penetrated by stains that are more difficult to remove from within the stone. It's important to use surface-safe and effective solutions specifically designed for removing water stains to avoid this problem and keep your marble surfaces looking their best.1. Using Dish Soap to Clean Hard Water Stains
A mixture of mild dish soap and warm water can work wonders for light water stains on marble surfaces.- Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle and gently mix it.
- Spray the solution onto the water stain, dampen a cloth or paper towel, and apply it to the affected area.
- Using a circular motion, gently wipe the stain until it disappears.
- Use a soft-bristled brush for a little extra cleaning power if needed.
- Rinse the area with fresh water and dry it immediately to prevent any soap scum or residue from building up, which could lead to further water spots.
2. Using Liquid Stone Cleaner to Clean Off Hard Water Stains
Liquid stone cleaners formulated for marble cleaning surfaces are surface-safe and can effectively remove precipitated hard water stains without damaging the marble. These cleaners are formulated with distilled or purified water and, as such, are more effective in dissolving and resolubilizing precipitate than hard water that is already saturated with calcium. These solutions cannot dissolve the precipitate due to their non-acidic nature.- Apply the cleaner to the water stain, allowing it to sit for a few minutes.
- Gently wipe away the cleaner using a soft cloth or sponge.
- Rinse the area with water and dry thoroughly.
3. Soft Cloth or Sponge for Cleaning Off Hard Water Stains
Using a soft cloth or sponge is a gentle and safe method for removing hard water stains from marble surfaces.- Dampen the cloth or sponge with a suitable cleaning solution or liquid stone cleaner, and gently wipe the stained area in a circular motion. The soft and non-abrasive texture of the cloth or sponge ensures that the marble surface won't be scratched or damaged.
- After removing the stain, rinse the cloth or sponge and wipe away any residue.
- Finally, rinse the area with water and dry it thoroughly to prevent water spots. Using a sponge or soft cloth, you can effectively clean water stains from marble surfaces while preserving their beauty and integrity.
4. Light Scrubbing with a Non-Abrasive Brush
In cases where gentle scrubbing is needed, a non-abrasive brush with soft bristles can remove water stains from marble surfaces.- Dip the brush in a mild cleaning solution or liquid stone cleaner and lightly scrub the stained area in a circular motion.
- Apply gentle pressure and periodically rinse the brush to prevent dirt or debris from accumulating.
- After removing the stain, rinse the area with water and dry it thoroughly.
- Using a non-abrasive brush, you can safely and effectively remove water stains from marble surfaces without causing any damage.
5. Microfiber Cloth for Drying
The source of the hard water stains is the hard water itself. To prevent this problem from returning after cleaning your marble surfaces, one solution is to invest in a water softener. While it can be costly, with prices starting at $5000, you can also prevent hard water stains by maintaining good cleaning habits. For example, ensure water doesn't stay on your surface when wet, as this can cause the minerals to deposit through evaporation. Use a microfiber cloth which provides greater surface area absorption than regular cloths. With these tips, you can keep your marble surfaces looking clean and shiny.How to Prevent Water Stains and Etch Marks?
Water stains on marble surfaces can be a frustrating problem to deal with, but taking preventative measures can help avoid them altogether. Here are some tips for preventing water stains in the first place:- Use coasters: Place coasters under glasses, cups, and bottles to prevent water rings from forming on your marble surface.
- Wipe up spills immediately: If you spill any liquids on your marble surface, clean them up immediately with a soft cloth to prevent any water from seeping into the pores of the marble and causing stains.
- Use a tray or mat: Place a tray or mat under potted plants or water-holding containers to prevent it from pooling on the marble surface.
- Say no to acidic cleaners: Do not use any acidic cleaners or other remedies, as these can damage the surface or remove seals designed to protect the surface from being stained.
- Say no to steel wool: When removing water stains from marble, avoid using anything too abrasive, as this can create scratches that are even harder to fix than the original stain. While a soft-bristled brush or plastic scraper can effectively remove light build-up, it's essential to avoid using metal tools like putty knives or screwdrivers, which can scratch the surface and will need a professional to polish out.
