Removing pet & urine stains from marble

Be assured, this is not an uncommon problem and is an issue in homes, medical buildings, historic buildings and municipal restrooms.

When dealing with urine stains on marble, there are two primary issues: the stain and the etching that is caused by the acid.  You can remove the stain by using the poultice recipe below. If you have considerable etching (dulling of the sheen of the marble) you will need to have a professional stone restorer come in and re-hone and polish the floor.

As always, if you feel like you need a pro, Boston Stone Restoration can help restore your marble and perhaps offer coatings that will save your marble going forward.

NOTE: THE CLEANING OR REMOVAL OF STAINS FROM STONE MAY INVOLVE THE USE OF LIQUIDS, DETERGENTS OR SOLVENTS WHICH MAY RUN OFF ON ADJACENT MATERIAL, DISCOLOR THE STONE OR DRIVE THE STAINS DEEPER INTO POROUS STONES.

 

1. Hydrogen peroxide-40% by volume.

2. Gloves

3. Unscented baby powder or talcum powder

4. Plastic cup

5. Plastic wrap

6. Razor blade

7. Masking tape

8. Plastic putty knife

9. Stirrer stick

STEPS:

1. Pick a test area (approx. 16″x16″) that has the most damage or staining to it.

2. Combine the peroxide and the baby powder in the cup and mix until it is a paste about  the consistency of peanut butter.

3. Apply the paste to the stained area with the putty knife- about 1/4″ thick.

4. Cover the area with plastic wrap.

5. Tape down the edges using masking tape.

6. Use the razor blade to cut one or two slits in the plastic so it can breathe.

7. Allow the paste to stay on the area for 24 hours.

8. After 24 hrs., use the plastic putty knife to scrape off the now dried paste.

9. Rinse the work area with water and dry with a paper towel.

10. After the surface is completely dry, compare the test space to the rest of the area and evaluate your progress.

11. You should see a distinct difference.

12. Repeat the process until desired result is achieved.

Note** Do not be afraid that you will harm your stone by working on it. The rule of thumb with poulticing is “if the stain can go in, then it can come out”.

Note ** Remember to wear your gloves!

Good luck- and happy poulticing !!