Marble is one of the most beautiful and luxurious natural stones you can have in your home or business. From elegant benchtops to timeless flooring, it adds sophistication and value to any space. However, marble is also delicate and porous, which means everyday habits can cause permanent damage over time. At TSTONE, we have helped countless clients with marble restoration in Melbourne, and we often see the same issues caused by daily wear and tear.
If you want your marble to stay pristine for years to come, you need to know what habits to avoid and what to do instead. Here are the top seven everyday habits that could be ruining your marble surfaces, and how to protect them.
1. Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
One of the fastest ways to damage marble is by using acidic or abrasive cleaning products. Common household cleaners like vinegar, lemon juice, bleach, and ammonia can etch the surface, leaving dull spots that are difficult to repair. Abrasive scrubbing pads can also scratch the polished finish.
How to Avoid It:
- Use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for natural stone.
- Wipe up spills immediately with a soft, damp cloth.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and scouring pads altogether.
If your marble is already etched or scratched, professional marble restoration in Melbourne can bring back its smooth, glossy finish.
2. Letting Spills Sit for Too Long
Marble is porous, which means it absorbs liquids quickly. Drinks like red wine, coffee, juice, and even water can leave stains if not cleaned up immediately. Oils and greasy substances can be even worse, as they seep into the stone and are harder to remove.
How to Avoid It:
- Wipe up spills straight away to prevent absorption.
- Keep coasters and placemats on benchtops and dining tables.
- Use trays under cooking oils and condiments in the kitchen.
If stains have already set in, our marble restoration Melbourne team can deep clean and seal the surface to prevent further damage.
3. Dragging Heavy Items Across the Surface
From sliding pots and pans on a benchtop to dragging furniture across marble flooring, this everyday habit can cause scratches, chips, and cracks. Even fine scratches will dull the surface over time, making your marble look tired and worn.
How to Avoid It:
- Lift heavy objects instead of sliding them.
- Use protective pads or felt sliders under furniture legs.
- Place chopping boards or mats on benchtops for food preparation.
If your marble already has scratches, a professional grind and polish as part of our marble restoration Melbourne service can make it look brand new again.
4. Not Resealing Your Marble Regularly
Marble needs to be sealed to help protect it from stains, moisture, and wear. Unfortunately, many people either never seal their marble or forget to reseal it regularly. Once the sealant wears off, the surface becomes vulnerable to damage.
How to Avoid It:
- Have your marble sealed by a professional every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage.
- Test the seal by placing a few drops of water on the surface — if it darkens, it is time to reseal.
Our marble sealing service gives your surfaces long-lasting protection.
- Wearing Shoes Indoors on Marble Floors
High heels, work boots, and even everyday shoes can scratch marble flooring, especially if they pick up grit, sand, or small stones from outside. Over time, these micro-scratches reduce the shine and smoothness of the marble.
How to Avoid It:
- Encourage a no-shoes policy indoors.
- Use soft slippers or socks on marble flooring.
- Place mats at entryways to trap dirt and grit.
If your marble floors are looking dull or scratched, our expert marble restoration Melbourne team can polish and bring them back to life.
6. Using Marble as a Cutting Board
Chopping directly on a marble benchtop might seem convenient, but it can leave deep scratches and even cause chips in the stone. Knives can also lose their sharpness against the hard surface.
How to Avoid It:
- Always use a chopping board for food preparation.
- Keep boards near your main cooking area so you are never tempted to skip using them.
If your benchtop is scratched or chipped, our marble restoration Melbourne specialists can repair and restore it to perfection.
7. Ignoring Small Damage Until It Gets Worse
A small chip, scratch, or stain might not seem like a big deal, but ignoring it can lead to bigger problems. Chips can crack further, stains can spread, and scratches can deepen over time.
How to Avoid It:
- Address minor damage as soon as you notice it.
- Schedule routine professional maintenance for your marble.
- Book a professional inspection if you are unsure about the severity of the damage.
Your marble is an investment in beauty and value, but everyday habits can shorten its lifespan. By making small changes to how you care for your marble, you can keep it looking stunning for years to come. And when damage does occur, professional marble restoration is the key to bringing back its elegance.
Restore Your Marble to Its Original Beauty with TSTONE
If your marble surfaces have lost their shine, developed scratches, or suffered from stains, TSTONE can help. We specialise in marble restoration in Melbourne, using advanced techniques to repair, polish, and protect your stone. Whether it is a kitchen benchtop, bathroom vanity, or marble flooring, our skilled technicians will bring it back to life. Contact us today for a free quote and let us restore your marble to its full glory.