Cleaning Brown Marble Wash Stand Stains

QUESTION:

I recently purchased an antique wash stand. The top was, I guess white or greyish with darker grey streaks in it, however there is a fair bit of brownish yellow stains in certain areas. I would like to know how to remove these yellowish-brown marks, but still be able to maintain the antique look. Thanks.

ANSWER:

Without knowing what has caused the stains, it's a bit of trial and error to know what to recommend.... but I'll bet applying a hydrogen peroxide poultice will work.

Buy some 12% hydrogen peroxide (either at a beauty supply store or on our products page... the kind at the drug store is to weak at 3%) and also buy some talc powder.

Mix the two ingredients into a thick paste like toothpaste and apply to the stains about 1/2 inch thick. Cover the poultice with plastic kitchen wrap and seal the edges with masking tape. Let it sit for 48 hours and then take off the plastic, but not the poultice. Let that dry more until hard.

Remove and clean. You should notice the stains gone or improved. Repeat the process if necessary. If after a couple times you don't notice any improvement, then use acetone instead of hydrogen peroxide to make a poultice and repeat the process.

The proper chemical to use depends on what caused the stains. So, again... trial and error, but start with the hydrogen peroxide.

Once you remove the stains, clean the marble with Granite Countertop & Marble Cleaning spray. You can also use Topical Polish/Shine Enhancer if you want a little extra shine and protection.

Good Luck,
Ryan