Italian marble, including popular varieties such as Statuario, Carrara, Calacatta, and Botticino, is revered for its beauty and elegance. However, its porous nature makes it susceptible to various types of stains. Fortunately, there are well-tested, professional-grade methods that effectively remove stains while preserving the integrity of the stone. In this blog, we will learn about various methods that will help in removing stains from Italian Marble.
Below are the most reliable, industry-approved techniques for tackling different kinds of stains on Italian marble surfaces:
1. Oil-Based Stains (Grease, Cooking Oils, Cosmetics)
Treatment Method: Poultice with Baking Soda and Acetone
Materials Required:
- Baking soda
- Acetone (not nail polish remover)
- Plastic wrap
- Masking tape
- Plastic spatula
Procedure:
- Mix baking soda with acetone to form a thick paste.
- Apply the paste over the stained area, about ¼ inch thick.
- Cover with plastic wrap and seal the edges with masking tape.
- Allow it to sit for 24–48 hours.
- Remove the poultice, rinse the area with distilled water, and dry with a soft cloth.
- Repeat if necessary.
Note: This method is widely used by stone care professionals and is safe for polished marble.
2. Organic Stains (Wine, Coffee, Tea, Juice, Food Residue)
Treatment Method: Hydrogen Peroxide Soak
Materials Required:
- 12% Hydrogen peroxide (industrial grade)
- White cotton pads or cloth
- Plastic wrap (optional for deeper stains)
Procedure:
- Soak a cotton pad in hydrogen peroxide.
- Gently place it on the stained area.
- Cover with plastic wrap for deeper stains.
- Let it sit for up to 24 hours.
- Remove the pad and rinse the area with clean water.
- Dry with a microfiber cloth.
Caution: Avoid this method on dark-colored marbles, as it may cause lightening.
3. Rust Stains (From Metal Objects or Iron-Rich Water)
Treatment Method: Commercial Rust Removers Formulated for Marble
Recommended Products:
- Fila Rust Remover
- Deterdek Pro (by Fila)
- Akemi Rust Remover Paste
Procedure:
- Wear gloves and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Apply the rust remover directly on the stain.
- Allow it to sit as per the label (typically 10–15 minutes).
- Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water.
- Repeat if the rust stain persists.
Warning: Never use acidic cleaners like lemon juice or vinegar—these will etch the marble surface.
4. Ink and Dye Stains (Pens, Markers, Hair Dyes)
Treatment Method: Solvent-Based Cleaning
Materials Required:
- Acetone (for darker marbles)
- Hydrogen peroxide (for lighter marbles)
- Cotton swabs or white cloth
Procedure:
- Dip the cloth or cotton in the appropriate solvent.
- Gently blot the stain (do not rub).
- Let the solvent dwell for a few minutes.
- Rinse with clean water and dry the surface.
Note: Repeat if needed, but avoid excessive use of acetone as it may dull the surface over time.
5. Water Stains and Mineral Deposits (Chalky White Marks from Hard Water)
Treatment Method: Marble-Safe Descaling or Polishing Powder
Recommended Products:
- MB-11 Marble Polishing Powder
- pH-neutral stone cleaner
- Soft microfiber cloth
Procedure:
- Apply a marble-safe descaler or polishing powder.
- Buff gently in circular motions using a damp microfiber cloth.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Dry the surface completely to prevent further buildup.
Tip: Regular use of distilled water in cleaning can prevent hard water deposits.
6. Mold and Mildew (Found in Bathrooms or Damp Corners)
Treatment Method: Hydrogen Peroxide Spray and Soft Brush
Materials Required:
- Hydrogen peroxide (3–12%)
- Spray bottle
- Soft-bristled brush
- Clean cloth
Procedure:
- Spray hydrogen peroxide directly onto the affected area.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Gently scrub with a soft brush.
- Wipe clean with water and dry thoroughly.
Note: Ensure proper ventilation to prevent recurrence.
7. General Deep Stain Removal: Custom Poultice
Poultice Method (Universal Approach for Deep-Set Stains)
Base Materials:
- Absorbent powder (baking soda, diatomaceous earth, or talcum powder)
- Solvent (acetone, hydrogen peroxide, or commercial stain remover depending on stain type)
Steps:
- Mix the absorbent powder with the appropriate solvent to form a paste.
- Apply over the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and tape the edges.
- Leave for 24–48 hours.
- Remove the dried poultice and clean the area with water.
- Repeat if needed.
This method is widely used in stone restoration and is safe for home use when applied properly.
Professional Marble Cleaning Products (Safe & Trusted)
For best results, use the following products that are verified for Italian marble use:
| Brand | Product | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fila Solutions | Fila Marble Cleaner, Rust Remover | Daily and stain-specific cleaning |
| Akemi | Stain Remover Poultice, Rust Paste | Spot stain removal |
| MB Stone Care | MB-11, MB-1 | Polishing and daily maintenance |
| DuPont | StoneTech Professional Sealer | Long-term stain prevention |
Bonus: Preventing Future Stains
- Seal marble surfaces every 6–12 months with a premium stone sealer.
- Use coasters, trivets, and placemats under items that can cause stains.
- Clean up spills immediately—do not let liquids sit on the surface.
- Use only pH-neutral cleaners designed for natural stones.
Final Note
All the above methods are verified by stone care experts and are commonly used in the marble restoration and maintenance industry. Always test any cleaner or poultice in an inconspicuous area first, and wear gloves when handling solvents or chemicals.
If a stain persists after multiple attempts, consult a certified marble restoration professional to prevent further damage.