Introduction
Cultured marble is a common material used for bathroom sinks, shower surrounds, and other fixtures. It is a mixture of crushed stone particles like limestone or marble and various resins and pigments, formed into a resin composite. The mixture is poured into molds and cured to create cultured marble parts.
Some of the benefits of cultured marble compared to natural marble include:
- More customizable. Cultured marble can be molded into virtually any shape and variety of colors created by adding pigments. Natural marble is limited by the natural stone.
- More durable. The resin mixture creates a harder and stronger material than marble itself. Cultured marble is less prone to chipping, cracking, or etching than natural marble surfaces.
- Seamless. Pieces can be molded together to create a continuous seamless surface. Natural marble requires seams between pieces.
- Stain resistant. The resin coat is less porous than natural marble so it resists staining and moisture damage. But it's not completely stain-proof.
- Lower cost. Because it's man-made, cultured marble is considerably less expensive than real marble while providing a similar elegant look.
Cultured marble remains a popular choice for bathroom sinks, showers, bathtubs, vanity tops and other areas. Its attractive appearance, customization, durability and affordability make it a common alternative to natural stone in modern bathrooms. But it still requires care and cleaning, especially to remove stains.
Common Stains
Cultured marble is prone to several types of unsightly stains that can be difficult to remove. Here are some of the most common stains that occur on cultured marble sinks and shower surrounds:
- Soap scum - Soap scum occurs when mineral deposits from hard water mix with soap residues. This leaves behind a grimy, whitish film that clings to surfaces. Soap scum tends to build up in the sink basin and on shower walls over time.
- Hard water stains - Hard water contains a high amount of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. As water evaporates, these minerals are left behind, creating whitish mineral deposits on surfaces. Hard water stains can occur anywhere water splashes or pools.
- Mildew stains - Mildew is a type of mold that grows in moist environments. In the bathroom, mildew thrives on wet surfaces like shower walls and ceilings. It starts off looking like dots of black or brown discoloration, but can spread to form larger stained patches if left untreated.
- Rust stains - Rust stains occur when metal such as nails or drain parts corrode over time due to moisture exposure. As the metal rusts, it leaves behind reddish-brown stains on surfaces. Rust stains may seep out from under sink basins or around drains.
- Dye transfer - Dye transfer happens when wet fabric touches a surface and leaves behind some of its colorful dye. This can lead to blotchy stains on a cultured marble sink or bathtub surface. Hair dye, colored towels, and fresh jeans are common culprits.
Preventing Stains
Sealing your cultured marble surfaces is one of the best ways to prevent stains. Apply a penetrating sealer once a year to protect the surface and make it easier to clean. The sealer fills in microscopic pores, preventing dirt, grime, and liquids from penetrating the cultured marble.
Clean your cultured marble regularly with a non-abrasive cleaner to prevent buildup. Soap scum and hard water deposits are much easier to remove when they don't accumulate over long periods of time.
Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and acidic cleaners which can damage the gel coat finish. Stick to gentle cleaners specifically designed for cultured marble which won't strip away the protective seal. Test any new cleaner on an inconspicuous spot first.
Avoid leaving any liquids sitting on cultured marble surfaces for extended periods of time. Wipe spills quickly to prevent staining.
Use coasters, trivets and padding under any hot items or appliances that could mar the cultured marble. Heat can damage the finish.
Cleaning Supplies
Cultured marble requires gentler cleaning solutions than natural stone to avoid damaging the surface. When selecting supplies, stick to mild cleaners and avoid abrasive scouring pads or powders that can scratch or dull the finish.
Some of the best supplies for cleaning cultured marble include:
- Mild detergent: An everyday dish soap diluted in warm water makes an effective cleaning solution for cultured marble. Look for a formula free of acids, bleach or ammonia that won't etch or discolor the surface. Dilute a few drops of soap per quart of water.
- Baking soda: The abrasiveness of baking soda helps remove grime and buildup without scratching. Make a paste with water and apply to stains, let sit briefly, then scrub gently with a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly.
- Vinegar: The acetic acid in distilled white vinegar dissolves hard water deposits, soap scum and mildew stains. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and wipe down surfaces. Rinse completely afterward.
- Soft cloths: Always use a non-abrasive soft cloth when cleaning cultured marble. Microfiber cloths are ideal for scrubbing and buffing without causing fine scratches. Avoid stiff-bristled brushes, steel wool or anything that could scuff the finish.
Be wary of chemicals that are too harsh for cultured marble. Ammonia, bleach, alcohol, acidic cleaners or abrasive powders can permanently damage the surface. When in doubt, start with the mildest approach using dish soap, baking soda or vinegar first.
Removing Soap Scum
Soap scum is one of the most common stains that can build up on cultured marble surfaces in bathrooms. The scum forms when soap reacts with minerals in hard water, creating a film that sticks to the surface. While it may seem daunting to remove, there are some effective homemade solutions.
One of the best options is white vinegar. The acetic acid in vinegar helps break down the soap scum, making it easier to wipe away. Fill a spray bottle with undiluted white vinegar and liberally spray the affected areas of the cultured marble. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes. Then use a soft cloth, sponge, or non-abrasive scrub pad to wipe away the soap scum. You may need to repeat this process several times for stubborn buildup.
Baking soda can also help scrub away soap scum. Make a paste by mixing 3 parts baking soda with 1 part water. Apply the paste to the cultured marble with a damp sponge or cloth. Let it sit briefly before scrubbing with gentle circular motions. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.
For extremely difficult deposits in grout lines or textured areas, a plastic razor blade can help scrape away the buildup after applying vinegar or baking soda. Gently run the razor blade over the area at a 45 degree angle. Take care not to scratch the cultured marble surface.
With a little time and elbow grease, these homemade solutions can restore the luster to cultured marble affected by soap scum without using harsh chemicals. Be sure to follow with a thorough rinse and dry completely. Regular cleaning will help prevent soap scum from returning quickly.
Removing Hard Water Stains
Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that can leave behind white stains and film on surfaces. These stains can build up over time and become difficult to remove from cultured marble. However, you can often remove hard water stains yourself using common household products like vinegar, lemon juice, and TSP (trisodium phosphate).
Vinegar
One of the most effective options for removing hard water stains from cultured marble is white vinegar. Simply spray full-strength vinegar directly onto the stains and allow it to sit for a few minutes. The acetic acid in vinegar will help dissolve and loosen mineral deposits. Use a soft cloth, sponge, or scrubbing pad to gently scrub away the stains. You may need to repeat this process a few times for stubborn buildup. Always rinse well with clean water afterwards.
Lemon Juice
Like vinegar, lemon juice contains acidic properties that can help break down hard water stains on cultured marble. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the stained area and let sit briefly. Scrub with a soft cloth or sponge, then rinse. For tougher stains, let the lemon juice sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing. The natural citric acid will help dissolve the mineral deposits. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly afterwards.
TSP (Trisodium Phosphate)
TSP is a heavy-duty cleaner available at most hardware stores. When mixed with water, it creates a solution specifically designed to cut through mineral deposits and stains. To use, wear gloves and eye protection, then make a paste with TSP and just enough water to form a thick solution. Spread the TSP paste onto the stained cultured marble and allow to sit for 5-10 minutes. Scrub vigorously with a stiff nylon brush, then rinse several times with clean water. TSP can be harsh, so test in an inconspicuous area first.
By using one of these homemade solutions, you can often remove pesky hard water stains from your cultured marble without harsh chemicals. But be patient, as it may take several applications and scrubbing to fully remove stubborn buildup. Just be sure to thoroughly rinse after cleaning.
Removing Mildew Stains
Mildew stains are common in bathrooms, especially around the grout lines, due to excess moisture. Mildew is a fungus that grows in humid environments. It starts off looking like dirt but then progresses to black spots. If left untreated, it can damage surfaces.
When trying to remove mildew stains from cultured marble, start with a mild approach and gradually increase strength as needed. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface.
Bleach
Mix 1/2 cup of bleach into 1 gallon of warm water. Using a soft cloth, wipe the mildew stained areas with the bleach solution. Let it sit for 5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with clean water. Bleach can discolor some materials, so spot test first.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is an effective alternative to bleach for killing mold and mildew. Create a spray by mixing 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide with 2 parts water. Spray it directly onto the mildew stains. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing with a soft brush and rinsing clean.
Baking Soda
For a non-toxic approach, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to mildew stains and let sit overnight. The baking soda will help absorb and lift the stain. In the morning, scrub with a soft cloth or brush and rinse thoroughly. Baking soda is safe for most surfaces.
Repeat any of these methods as needed until the mildew stains are fully removed. Allow the surface to dry completely afterwards. Going forward, improve bathroom ventilation and wipe down surfaces regularly to prevent mildew from returning.
Removing Rust Stains
Rust stains are common in bathroom environments due to the presence of water and metal. Rust can form on metal fixtures, pipes, and hardware. As the rust flakes off over time, it can leave behind stubborn orange stains on your cultured marble.
While rust stains may look daunting, there are several effective homemade remedies you can try to remove them:
Oxalic Acid
Oxalic acid is an effective rust stain remover. It helps dissolve the iron oxide in rust, allowing you to wipe the stain away. To use it, make a solution by mixing 2 tablespoons of oxalic acid powder with 1 cup warm water. Apply it directly to the rust stain using a soft cloth, then rinse thoroughly. Be careful handling oxalic acid, as it is toxic if consumed. Always use gloves and work in a well-ventilated area.
Molasses
Believe it or not, molasses can also eliminate rust stains. Make a solution by mixing 1 part molasses with 2 parts hot water. Apply it to the stain, allow it to sit for 1-2 hours, then scrub with a soft brush and rinse. The sugars in the molasses react with the iron oxide in the rust to lift it out. Make sure to rinse thoroughly.
Lemon Juice
The citric acid in lemon juice is another rust fighter. Cut a lemon in half and directly rub it over the rust stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with baking soda and rinsing clean. The vitamin C and acidity in lemons help dissolve rust stains. For tougher stains, let the lemon juice sit for longer before scrubbing.
Be patient when removing rust stains, as they can take some effort to fully remove. But with these homemade remedies, your cultured marble can look rust-free.
Removing Dye Transfer
One of the most difficult stains to remove from cultured marble is dye transfer from clothing, towels, or other fabrics. Dye can really soak into the porous surface, leaving stubborn stains. Here are some methods to try to lift dye stains from your cultured marble:
Bleach - For white or light-colored cultured marble, an application of undiluted bleach may help lift dye transfer. Apply a small amount directly to the stain and let it sit for 5 minutes before wiping away. Be very cautious with bleach to avoid discoloration of the surrounding surface. Test in an inconspicuous area first.
Hydrogen Peroxide - As a more gentle alternative to bleach, hydrogen peroxide can also work to oxidize and lift dye stains. Create a paste by mixing 2 parts baking soda with 1 part hydrogen peroxide. Apply it to the stain, allowing it to bubble for a few minutes before rinsing clean.
Acetone - For extremely stubborn dye stains, try applying a small amount of 100% acetone with a cloth. Carefully wipe in a circular motion. Acetone is a powerful solvent, so use sparingly and rinse immediately. Ensure proper ventilation.
No matter what cleaning method you try, preventing future stains through quick cleanup and dye-transfer resistant bath mats or towels is key. If stains persist, call a professional refinishing company for help restoring your cultured marble's appearance. With some patience and targeted treatments, dye transfer stains can usually be removed.
When to Call a Professional
Cultured marble surfaces require regular cleaning, but sometimes stains persist or keep coming back despite your best efforts. In these cases, it may be time to call in a professional to help restore the surface.
Severely Damaged: If the surface is deeply scratched, chipped, cracked, or showing other severe damage, it is best to have a professional resurface it. Trying DIY repairs for this level of damage will likely result in a patchy, uneven appearance. Professionals have the tools and expertise to smooth and resurface the cultured marble properly.
Reoccurring Stains: For stubborn stains that resist cleaning or keep reappearing in the same spot, a professional can help identify the underlying cause. There may be an issue with the cultured marble sealer, a hidden source of moisture, or a buildup of residue deep in the pores of the material. An experienced team can solve the root cause of reoccurring stains.
Need Resurfacing: Over time from general wear and tear, cultured marble finishes can become dulled or scratched. The glossy surface can appear hazy even after cleaning. Calling a professional refinishing company to resurface the cultured marble brings back the original luster and makes the sinks, shower walls and vanity tops look brand new again. Resurfacing involves lightly sanding and re-polishing the surface.
Rather than wasting time and energy on DIY repairs, trust the experts for severe staining, unresolved issues or resurfacing needs. Their specialized tools and stones care knowledge will have your cultured marble looking fantastic again.
Cultured marble is a common material used for bathroom sinks, shower surrounds, and other fixtures. It is a mixture of crushed stone particles like limestone or marble and various resins and pigments, formed into a resin composite. The mixture is poured into molds and cured to create cultured marble parts.
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