Yes, you can polish marble with baking soda. Mix 3 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 quart of water. Apply it to the marble surface, gently rub in circular motions using a soft cloth, let it sit for 5 hours, then rinse and buff with a dry towel. It brings back shine without damaging the surface.
If your marble looks dull, cloudy, or has lost that soft glow it once had, you’re not alone. Many people get frustrated when their kitchen counters or bathroom floors start looking tired, even though they clean them regularly.
The truth is, marble needs a little extra care. And no, you don’t always need to spend big on fancy products. Sometimes, what’s in your kitchen cabinet works just fine.
Baking soda is a simple fix. It’s gentle, doesn’t scratch, and works surprisingly well if you use it right. But polishing marble isn’t just about making it shiny, it’s about protecting it too. Whether you’re trying to save money, avoid chemicals, or just handle it yourself, this method can help.
Still, if your marble has deep etches or stains, marble restoration or calling in marble polishing services might be your better bet.
Why Does Marble Lose Its Shine?
Marble gets dull from scratches, spills, and everyday wear.
It’s a soft stone. Even wiping it too hard or using the wrong cleaner can leave it looking lifeless. Acidic spills—like lemon juice or vinegar—etch the surface. Foot traffic and constant use wear it down over time.
Think of marble like a soft, white T-shirt. Every time you rub or scrub it, it gets thinner and loses its crispness.
What You’ll Need
- Baking soda (not baking powder)
- Water
- A soft microfiber cloth or sponge
- A dry, clean towel
- A spray bottle (optional)
- Bowl for mixing
- Gloves (optional but useful)
Step-by-Step: Polishing Marble with Baking Soda
1. Clean the Surface First
Before polishing, get rid of any dirt or grime. Use warm water and a soft cloth. No harsh cleaners—just plain water or a mild dish soap will do.
2. Mix the Paste
In a bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 quart (about 1 liter) of water. Stir it until it forms a cloudy liquid. You don’t want it too thick or runny—just enough to coat the marble evenly.
3. Apply the Mixture
Use a cloth or sponge to gently spread the paste over the marble. Don’t scrub. Rub in light, circular motions like you’re petting a cat.
4. Let It Sit
Let the paste sit on the surface for about 5 hours. This gives the baking soda time to work into the pores and lift away dullness.
Tip: Don’t let it sit overnight, it might dry out too much and become tough to clean.
5. Rinse It Off
After 5 hours, rinse the area with clean water. Use a fresh cloth to wipe away any residue.
6. Buff to Shine
Now take a dry microfiber towel and buff the marble in circles. This brings out the shine.
Can Baking Soda Scratch Marble?
No, not if used gently.
Baking soda is a mild abrasive, but it’s safe for marble when diluted with water and used the right way. Avoid scrubbing hard or using it too often.
Think of it like using toothpaste on your teeth, fine in moderation, not every hour.
How Often Should You Polish Marble?
Once every few months is enough.
Too much polishing can wear down the surface. If you notice it losing shine again, go through the steps—but wait at least a few weeks in between.
For everyday care, just use a soft cloth and warm water. Avoid cleaners with vinegar, lemon, or bleach.
When to Call Marble Polishing Services
If your marble has deep stains, etches, or major dull spots—DIY won’t cut it.
That’s when it’s smart to call in marble polishing services. They use special tools and polishing powders that go far deeper than what baking soda can do.
It’s like going to a dentist when your home brushing isn’t enough. You can do the basics, but some things need a pro.
What About Marble Restoration?
Marble restoration is more intense—it removes scratches, stains, and wear using special machines and compounds.
If your marble surface has seen years of damage, marble restoration is what brings it back to life. It usually involves grinding down the top layer, then repolishing it professionally.
You don’t need this often—maybe every 3 to 5 years, depending on use. But it makes a night-and-day difference.
Tips to Keep Marble Looking Great
- Always wipe spills right away
- Use coasters under glasses
- Never clean with vinegar or lemon
- Place mats in high-traffic areas
- Re-polish every few months with baking soda
- Hire pros every few years for deep marble restoration
Final Thought
You don’t need fancy sprays or expensive kits to polish marble. Baking soda, water, and patience go a long way. If your marble just needs a refresh, this method does the job.
But when the damage is deep or the surface feels rough to touch, don’t hesitate to call marble polishing services or look into full marble restoration.
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