Antibacterial Cleaning For Marble

by Jessie
(Raleigh, NC)

QUESTION:

I just got new Carrara countertops and a full backsplash in my kitchen. How do I clean up after cooking with raw chicken, meat, etc? I'm slightly addicted to antibacterial cleaners, but realize they are a no-no for my marble. Thanks!

ANSWER:

First, you should be using a cutting board, preferably one designated specifically for meat/fish... one for fruit/veggies, etc. So, this will greatly reduce any products contacting the countertop.

To clean a mess: simple, basic soap and hot water will "disinfect" or remove pathogens from the area. However, if you use soap all the time, you'll get a build-up that will dull the shine.

If you do create a real mess, then you can also use hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle to kill any remaining germs. Hydrogen peroxide is acidic though, so over-use of this could etch (dull the shine) your countertops.

But then, with white Carrara in the kitchen you will have etch marks all over anyway from all the acidic foods and drinks that will inevitably contact the surface.

Hopefully, your installer educated you about this and you are prepared for the unending frustration of etch marks or you don't care and are perfectly willing to let your marble age naturally... blemishes and all. Etching is the primary reason marble in the kitchen is NOT recommended. Sealing has nothing to do with this issue.

For regular everyday cleaning I recommend MB-5 Stone Cleaner . So, just wipe up messes promptly. Use a little soap or hydrogen peroxide for the meat and poultry or messes that really make you worry.

But only for those... so these times should be very rare since you will also be using a cutting board to contain any mess.

Use the MB-5 Cleaner at the end of the day and you will never have a problem. Use MB-13 Polish for a little extra protection and shine.

You might as well pick up some MB-11 Marble Polishing Powder as well to help remove etch marks. If you are diligent about always using cutting boards, coasters and trivets, then you can greatly cut down on problems with etching, but in a kitchen... it's inevitable, so you'll need the polish.

Hope this helps... if you have another question, just ask!

Good Luck,
Ryan

I highly recommend MB Stone Care Products to maintain all your marble, stone and granite countertops and floors in optimal condition. I've used other good products (Stone Tech, Miracle) but found MB Stone Care is the most reliable and effective.