The first steps to consider when thinking about cleaning Beige Bahia Marble are:
- Understand that Beige Bahia Marble is a natural rock.
- Establish a routine for cleaning and maintenance.
- Perform deep cleaning only in cases of stains or damage to the marble.
- Preserve it through waterproofing and protection.
Beige Bahia Marble is a natural rock with a beige color and Brazilian origin. It is a heterogeneous limestone formed in the caatinga environment, which exhibits cavities. Geologically, it corresponds to limestone resulting from chemical, physical, and biogenic alterations of marine limestones from the salitre formation. Beige Bahia Marble occurs naturally in its raw form but can be processed into various finishes industrially, such as polished, brushed, honed, and crystallized and resin-coated.
Extensively used in the construction industry, Beige Bahia Marble, also known as national Travertine, can be found in properties as flooring, cladding, countertops, and various cut pieces. It is a natural rock widely used for finishing, decorating, and beautifying various areas and surfaces, adding aesthetic personalization to spaces. Therefore, proper maintenance and conservation are essential due to the unique characteristics of this stone. It’s important to note that marble and granite are rocks with different geological characteristics, so their cleaning should be approached differently.
Some initial and crucial tips to ensure that your Beige Bahia Marble remains undamaged:
Marble is a soft stone, so its cleaning process must be handled with care.
Never use acidic, alkaline, or abrasive cleaning products (such as all-purpose cleaners, bleach, stone cleaners, solvents, or powdered soap) on Beige Bahia Marble. Using these products can cause significant damage to the stone and affect its beauty and durability. Do not use vinegar or lemon either, as they can deeply harm the stone.
Fortunately, there are safe ways to clean it by using appropriate cleaning products and avoiding those that could harm it.
The process of daily maintenance and cleaning of Beige Bahia Marble is simple, easy, and doesn’t require abrasive cleaning products. You can use some household items you already have at home.
For Beige Bahia Marble used on countertops, windowsills, or decorative pieces:
If you only need to remove dust, use a clean and soft cloth to avoid scratching the stone. Be cautious about the pressure when wiping, as excessive pressure can rub small particles and dirt against the stone.
For damp cleaning, use a cloth dampened with clean water, and finish with another dry and clean cloth. If you choose to use a sponge, always use the soft side on the stone to prevent scratches.
When Beige Bahia Marble is used on facades or outdoor areas, always remember that the installation should avoid areas with water/moisture accumulation and should be properly grouted if necessary. Additionally, for surfaces that accumulate dirt and dust, a pressure washer can be an excellent choice to eliminate the soiled and darkened effect.
When Beige Bahia Marble is used as flooring:
For simple daily cleaning, use a soft-bristle broom to sweep the floor. Try to remove as much dirt as possible, paying attention to areas near walls and doors to prevent small debris or stones from scratching the floor.
If using a vacuum cleaner, opt for a handheld one because larger vacuum cleaner wheels can scratch the floor if used frequently. Typically, once a week is sufficient for vacuuming, unless your space is particularly dusty.
For damp cleaning, use a soft mop, a mop, or a soft cloth. Always use clean accessories. Dip it in clean water and apply it to the floor. Always finish with a dry, soft, and clean cloth.
Allowing Beige Bahia Marble to air dry can cause marks or stains. Always dry the surface at the end of the cleaning process.
If your Beige Bahia Marble requires cleaning that water alone cannot resolve, such as residue from grease, you can apply a neutral detergent with a soft sponge. In the case of a mop, always use a soft one. Rinse with water and finish with a dry and clean cloth. Always ensure that the surface is thoroughly dried after cleaning to prevent stains.
Remember that if you need to use a neutral detergent, it must be completely removed from the marble after application and cleaning with clean water. This way, you can remove any remaining dirt, debris, or foam from Beige Bahia Marble.
The final step will always be to dry the Beige Bahia Marble with a soft, dry, and clean cloth. We always emphasize using a clean cloth because a cloth with residues of any material can scratch the stone.
For those who have a highly polished Beige Bahia Marble floor, be cautious when considering waxing it. Use specialized marble products to restore its shine. Using regular wax can stain or damage the floor. Another important consideration is that regular wax can make the floor very slippery, potentially causing falls or accidents.
Additional important tips:
Use coasters when placing beverages on Beige Bahia Marble countertops and tables. Acidic beverages like wine and citrus juices can damage or stain the stone.
Always clean spills immediately to prevent stains on your stone. Rinse and dry the stone with a clean, soft cloth.
Avoid placing makeup, nail products, hair products, perfumes, and other cosmetics directly on Beige Bahia Marble. Use a tray or towel to hold these products and always keep the countertop clean, dry, and free of stains.
Always clean any dirt, sand, or particles that may scratch your Beige Bahia Marble. Wash the floor immediately after any spills. This is necessary because marble is a material that can absorb liquids. If left for too long, marble may discolor or stain.
Removing stains from marble is a delicate process, so it is advisable to always clean and dry a marble surface thoroughly when any product or liquid spills on it.
Deep Cleaning for Stains or Damage on Beige Bahia Marble:
If your Beige Bahia Marble has suffered a deep stain that you couldn’t remove with the procedures mentioned above, do not attempt to create a cleaning process on your own. There are specialized marble cleaning products designed for deep cleaning. These products are offered by specialized companies that not only sell the product but also provide guidance on how to apply it correctly for more effective results.
Marble is a special stone, and when there is a stain on it, it should be treated with specialized products. Using products from companies specializing in ornamental rocks brings security to the stain correction process, and the product’s packaging typically includes application and usage instructions.
There are also companies and professionals specializing in rock restoration who can come to your property and personally perform the restoration.
Some well-regarded brands for specialized marble cleaning and maintenance products include:
Bellinzone, Piso Clean, Tenax, among others.
If you want to revive the shine of your Beige Bahia Marble, never use common waxes. Look for companies that manufacture specialized rock products.
If you don’t see results, consider hiring a professional. They can perform restoration or polishing to bring the stone back to its original state.
Waterproofing Beige Bahia Marble:
To avoid the concerns mentioned above, it’s advisable to waterproof the marble.
The best way to prevent staining on floors, countertops, and decorative pieces made of Beige Bahia Marble is to periodically waterproof it. Obtain a product specifically formulated for this purpose, read the usage instructions on the packaging, and apply it to the surface of the marble. Depending on the product and its usage, you may need to reapply it less frequently. You can also hire a company or a qualified professional to perform the waterproofing.
Only a professional can remove severe stains. Waterproofing can be a preventive measure, but knowing how to clean your Beige Bahia Marble will maintain its natural beauty for a long time.
Another suggestion for marble flooring is to use a backside waterproofing product, which can be used in both outdoor and indoor areas. The waterproofing should also be done with specialized products.