In honor of World Baking Day, let’s talk about a lesser-known aspect of baking—how common baking ingredients can interact with marble and other calcite-based stones commonly used in kitchen countertops. As we whip up scrumptious baked goods, let’s not forget that some ingredients might wreak havoc on our kitchen counters.
Understanding the Risk
Marble, the reigning champion of kitchen countertops and baking surfaces, has a fatal flaw – its Achilles heel, if you will – when it comes to everyday baking ingredients. You see, marble just can’t handle the acidity that lurks within those innocent-looking baking staples. On the pH scale of acidity, lower numbers mean trouble, and unfortunately, many baking essentials fall on the wrong end of the spectrum. So, the next time you’re whipping up a batch of cookies, beware of the sneaky acids that could leave their mark on your precious marble surfaces.
Here are some common baking ingredients and their average pH levels:
- Milk: pH 6
- Sour cream/Yogurt: pH 4.5
- Buttermilk: pH 4.5
- Lemons or Lemon Juice: pH 2.5
- Limes or Lime Juice: pH 2.5
- Apple Cider Vinegar: pH 2.5
- Honey: pH 4
- Coffee: pH 5
- Cocoa Powder: pH 5
The Etching Dilemma
Why Should You Care? When it comes to marble surfaces, acidic substances are the ultimate frenemy. They can cause serious damage by etching into the surface and leaving behind unsightly marks. It’s not just a simple stain – it’s a full-on chemical reaction that eats away at the marble’s calcium carbonate, leaving a dull, damaged mess. And it only takes a brief encounter with acid to ruin your precious marble forever. So, better think twice before bringing that lemon juice anywhere near your marble countertops!
Preventive Measures when Baking
When whipping up a scrumptious treat on your marble countertops, opt for cutting boards or mats to shield them from any mess. While sealers can fend off stains, they’re no match for the sneak attacks of acidic ingredients that can leave etchings behind. Keep your marble looking pristine with a little help from some trusty barriers!
Dealing with Etching
If you notice etching on your marble countertops from baking mishaps, don’t panic! MB Stone offers products designed to remove minor etching caused by acidic ingredients. These specially formulated solutions can help restore the beauty of your marble surfaces. A few different options are:
- MB-11 Touch Up – For light colored stones and light surface etching
- Magic Renova Drill Kit – For darker stones and rougher/deeper etching
We always recommend that you contact us with any pictures to determine your best course of action before purchasing anything.
This World Baking Day, let’s enjoy baking to our heart’s content while being mindful of how we care for our kitchen surfaces. By taking simple precautions and knowing how to address potential issues, we can continue to savor the joys of baking without compromising the beauty of our home.
Happy Baking, and Happy World Baking Day!