Natural stone surfaces—like Bianco Carrara marble and Superwhite Dolomite—bring timeless elegance and value to your home. Whether featured in kitchens, bathrooms, or living areas, these materials make a statement with their veining, durability, and refined finish. But as with all premium surfaces, caring for marble and dolomite requires a little know-how to preserve their beauty for years to come.
In this beautifully executed Melbourne home, our honed Bianco Carrara and Superwhite Dolomite take centre stage across multiple zones. From the minimalist kitchen to the feature fireplace and bathroom vanity, these stones are a study in restraint and sophistication. Expertly fabricated by the team at Stone Art, the clean edges and smooth surfaces make a compelling case for natural stone in contemporary interiors.
Let’s explore how to maintain these surfaces so they stay pristine in daily use.
1. Do Marble Benchtops Need Sealing?
Yes—marble and dolomite should always be sealed, especially in areas exposed to moisture or oils. A high-quality penetrating sealer helps protect against stains and etching from acidic spills (think lemon juice, wine, or tomato sauce). In Melbourne’s humid climate, resealing marble every 12–18 months is ideal to maintain its performance.
💡 Tip: Always test your seal by placing a few drops of water on the surface—if it darkens within a few minutes, it’s time to reseal.
2. Everyday Cleaning for Marble in Kitchens and Bathrooms
Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner or simply a mix of warm water and mild dish soap. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners, as they can dull the honed finish over time. For kitchens, wipe spills immediately—especially anything oily, citrusy, or pigmented like turmeric or beetroot.
🧼 Avoid: vinegar, bleach, ammonia, or supermarket-grade multi-purpose sprays.
3. How to Keep Marble Looking Matte (Not Shiny)
Honed finishes like those seen in this project offer a soft, matte texture that hides smudges better than polished finishes. To keep it looking fresh:
Wipe with a microfiber cloth regularly
Use coasters and trays for frequently used items
Clean up oily splashes immediately to avoid dark spots
4. Natural Stone in Fireplaces – What to Know
Natural stone is heat-resistant, making it a great choice for fireplace surrounds. However, it’s still important to:
Avoid direct flame exposure
Keep it clean from soot with a dry microfiber cloth or vacuum brush
Reseal surfaces yearly to maintain clarity and tone
5. Recommended Stone Fabricators in Melbourne
Working with the right stonemason ensures a quality finish and seamless joins. We proudly worked with @stoneart on this project, whose precision craftsmanship helped bring this sophisticated palette to life.
