4 Reasons You Should Not Use Dettol On Marble

can i use dettol on marble

Dettol is a popular disinfectant that can be used for many things. It’s often used on the skin to help fight against bacteria, and it has also been known to be effective in treating wounds. So, does Dettol work on marble? The short answer is no!

1. Dettol Is Acidic

The acid in Dettol and other disinfectants will react with the marble’s surface, causing a chemical reaction. This could lead to stains or even damage the marble if left on for too long. So it is not recommended that you use this product on your natural stone flooring.

The main issue with using acid-based antisceptics is that they have a very high pH level, which can be harmful to marble. The acid in Dettol and other disinfectants will react with the marble’s surface, causing a chemical reaction.

This could lead to stains, marks, or even damage the marble if left on for too long. So as a general rule of thumb, it is not recommended that you use this product on your natural stone flooring.

2. Dettol Has Traces Of Oil

Most Dettol products contain cedar oil, which can be harmful to marble. The acid in Dettol and other disinfectants will react with the marble’s surface, causing a chemical reaction.

Usually, the problem begins to appear after oils from these products have been given the chance to build up over the year.

Dettol has traces of oil and therefore will leave a greasy residue on marble over time. This could lead to staining or deposits over time as the surface becomes dirtier from your shoes etc., so it is not recommended that you use this product on your natural stone flooring either.

3. Dettol Contain Bleach

Some Dettol products contain bleach as well though so there are still dangers of damaging the material should something get spilled onto your floors while cleaning them. The same rules apply as when combining any chemicals – always test before doing anything!

Marble is very delicate when it comes to chemical cleaners. You will not want to use anything other than a gentle cleaner such as mild soap and water, or even just hot water for light stains.

You should also be very cautious when using acids and products that contain bleach on marble because these can etch the surface which is irreversible damage that you do not want to experience. Chlorine bleach should absolutely never be used in any capacity on your natural stone flooring!

While you can dilute Dettol to use on marble and other natural stone surfaces, it is going to etch, mark, or discolor the marble surface with time. So stick to products specially designed for natural stone surfaces and your marble will remain healthy.

4. Dettol Has A Strong Smell

Not everyone is a fan of the strong Dettol smell that the disinfectant emits. The smell of Dettol comes from the ingredients in it that have a strong smell such as alcohol, thyme oil, and pine or cedar oils.

If you’re very sensitive to strong smells, you’ll want to avoid this product for your stone. Stick to products specially designed for natural stone surfaces so that your marble remains unharmed by any chemicals coming into contact with its surface.

And remember: those who are very sensitive to strong smells should also stay away from using this product as well since the smell of Dettol comes from ingredients like alcohol, thyme oil, pine oils, and others that have a really strong odor (source).

How To Disinfect Marble Properly (Without Using Dettol)

There are so many alternatives you could go for to ensure the safety of your marble surfaces while killing germs and bacteria. Below is a list of things you can use on your marble surfaces instead;

1. Know How To Properly Clean Your Marble Surfaces

You can do so by using either;

Natural Stone Cleaner

This is my personal go-to choice when I’m cleaning my marble surfaces. Because natural stone cleaners are specially made for stones like marble, they are the most effective to use when cleaning it.

The best part is they all come with their own personalized instructions the will help in their application.

This usually helps to take away all the guesswork that is involved in getting cleaning that is pH neutral, safe, acid-free, etc to use on marble surfaces.

Warm Water

Water is a natural cleanser, and it’s safe to use on marble. You can also mix in some soap for added protection if you’re worried about dirt or tough stains getting into the pores of your stone.

All you do is mix the warm water with the soap and then with the help of a microfiber cloth use this to wipe the surface of your marble.

Make sure the water is warm and not hot, as this may cause damage to your marble.

Baking soda With Warm Water

This is one of the easiest and cheapest ways of cleaning marble surfaces. Boil a pot of water and add ½ – ¾ cups of Baking Soda to it, then use a cloth or sponge to scrub your surface with this mixture. This will ensure that all bacteria are removed from the surface (source).

Makes sure to wipe off the surface with a damp cloth before the mixture dries to avoid any marks or to avoid leaving behind residue.

2. Use A Natural Stone Disinfectant

If you have a natural stone surface that is not marble, then this is the section for you. Natural stones are porous and can absorb bacteria so it’s imperative to keep them clean with a disinfectant.

Make sure to use one made from all-natural ingredients or at least labeled as hypoallergenic (no strong chemical scents).

Mix your chosen disinfectant in warm water and use a sponge or cloth on the surface of the natural stone until it appears dry again.

You may need to reapply if there has been heavy dirt build-up but be careful not to overzealously scrub as this could scratch away some of the natural features of the material (source).

This way will ensure that no harmful bacteria will be left on the surface of your natural stone.

Kobby

Hi! I’m Kobby, one of the co-owners of favoredstoneguides.com and the newest house owner in town. I’m a huge fan of most things natural. Over here on this site, I'm happy to share all the exciting hacks, tricks, and tips I have learned and continue to learn each day about taking care of natural stones.

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