Remove Dull Spots On Marble Vanity

by Tracy
(Pittsburgh, PA)

QUESTION:

There seems to be some spots that are a dull like sheen....I have no idea what did it or how to care for it but the counter is real marble and sealed. It has a natural shine to it and in these areas, it is dull and lack luster. HELP!

ANSWER:

Tracy, what you are describing are "etch marks." Marble (like travertine and limestone) will react to contact with acidic substances (coffee, soda, juice, some bath products, perfume) and harsh cleaning products, which is nearly any household cleaning product you'd buy at the store.

People often mistake these for stains. They are not. Stains are created when a substance is absorbed into the marble. Polished marble does not stain easy and sealing will protect against staining, but not etching.

Acids corrode the marble surface effectively removing the polished layer creating a dull and sometimes lighter spot. (A stain will be darker) So, removing etch marks is not a matter of simply cleaning marble.

If an entire surface has been etched or you have many severe spots (very rough) then you'll need professional restoration.

But don't worry....

Most etch marks and light scratches can be removed using a good marble polish compound for etch marks.

And FYI... not all products labeled "marble polish" will do this. Most of those are just topical dressings to enhance the shine.

I recommend using Stone Care Marble Polishing Paste. This is an easy-to-use product developed by stone professionals that produces excellent results removing etch marks and restoring the shine and color of your marble countertop.

That should do it for you!

Also, marble maintenance can be tricky if you don't know what you are doing. If you'd like to learn everything you should know so you don't damage your marble in the future then you may be interested in our Cleaning Marble Secrets Guide.

Good Luck,
Ryan

P.S. Get all the facts, answers, explanations and simple solutions with step-by-step instructions for any issue, problem or question with our Granite & Marble Maintenance Manuals.

I highly recommend Stone Care Pro 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 Stone Care Pro is the most reliable and effective.