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How to Clean Marble Countertops in 2025

In This Article

Marble countertops are stunning—they can make any kitchen or bathroom look like something out of a magazine! But to keep marble looking that way, you have to know how to take care of it properly. Marble is a natural stone that’s a little more delicate than some other materials, so it needs special attention to keep it from getting stained or scratched. Let’s dive into what you need to know to keep your marble countertops looking their best, without too much fuss.

marble-countertop-care-and-cleaning-1901060-01-160e1bc56fbd4e07bfc10420f26a953d

Daily Cleaning: Keep It Simple

To keep your marble countertops in top shape, a quick daily cleaning routine works wonders. You don’t need any fancy products—just a few basics.

Here’s What You’ll Need:

  • A soft microfiber cloth
  • Warm water
  • Mild, pH-neutral dish soap

How to Clean:

  1. Wipe the Countertop: Use a damp microfiber cloth to remove any crumbs or dust.
  2. Add a Bit of Soap: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Use the cloth to gently wipe the countertop.
  3. Rinse and Dry: After wiping, rinse the cloth, go over the surface again, and then dry it with a clean, dry cloth. Marble can stain if water sits on it, so drying is key.

Handling Spills and Stains

Let’s face it—spills happen, especially in the kitchen. And with marble, spills can quickly turn into stains if you’re not careful. The good news is that different types of stains can usually be removed. Here’s how to tackle some of the common ones:

  • Oil-Based Stains (like cooking oil): Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it sit overnight. Then, wipe it off with a damp cloth.
  • Organic Stains (like coffee or wine): Dab a bit of hydrogen peroxide on the stain with a soft cloth and let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it off.
  • Rust Stains: These are tough. You might need a commercial marble cleaner, and sometimes it’s best to get professional help.
  • Ink Stains: Use a small amount of hydrogen peroxide (only on lighter marble) and test on a hidden spot first, as it can lighten the stone.
White marble bathroom vanity with double sinks

Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding a few common mistakes will make a huge difference in keeping your marble beautiful.

  • No Acidic Cleaners: Avoid using vinegar, lemon juice, or any other acidic cleaners. They’ll eat away at the marble’s surface and cause etching.
  • Don’t Skip Sealing: Marble should be sealed once or twice a year to help protect it from stains.
  • Stay Away from Abrasive Materials: No steel wool or rough sponges! Marble scratches easily, so only use soft cloths.
  • Wipe Up Spills Right Away: Spills, especially from acidic things like juice or wine, should be wiped up immediately to prevent stains and damage.

Sealing Marble for Extra Protection

Sealing your marble countertops is super important. It doesn’t make them stain-proof, but it helps create a barrier so spills don’t soak in as easily.

How to Seal Your Marble Countertops:

  1. Pick a Good Sealant: Look for a marble sealant specifically made for countertops.
  2. Clean and Dry the Surface: Make sure your countertop is spotless and completely dry before you start.
  3. Apply the Sealant: Following the directions on the product, apply a thin layer of sealant evenly.
  4. Let it Sit: Leave the sealant on for the recommended time, usually about 10-15 minutes.
  5. Wipe Off the Extra: Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe off any leftover sealant.

Sealing should be done every 6-12 months, depending on how much you use your countertop.

Matarazzo Marble Close Up

tips to protect your marble

Prevention is the best protection when it comes to marble countertops. A few simple habits can save you a lot of cleaning time and keep your marble looking brand new.

  • Use Cutting Boards: Always use a cutting board when prepping food. Marble can scratch easily, so avoid cutting directly on it.
  • Use Coasters: Place coasters under glasses, especially for anything acidic like wine or coffee.
  • Hot Pads for Heat: Place hot pads or trivets under hot pots and pans. Marble doesn’t handle heat well, and you can end up with a burn mark.

These simple steps can help keep your marble countertops looking perfect for years.

Bringing Back the Shine

Marble can start to lose its shine over time. Here’s a quick way to bring back the gloss without causing damage.

How to Restore the Shine:

  1. Use Marble Polish: Pick a marble-safe polish or polishing powder. Follow the directions on the label.
  2. Apply the Polish: Gently rub the polish onto the surface using a soft cloth.
  3. Buff the Surface: Use a buffing pad or a microfiber cloth to buff the surface in small circles.
  4. Wipe and Dry: When you’re done, wipe the surface clean with a dry cloth.

Wrapping Up

Taking care of marble countertops might seem tricky at first, but once you get into a routine, it’s not that hard. A quick daily clean, a good sealant, and a few habits like using coasters and cutting boards can make a big difference. By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to keep your marble looking stunning for years. Marble might need a bit of extra love, but it’s worth it for that elegant look!

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Stone Surface Inc. is proud to be the premier choice for marble and marble countertops in Overland Park, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Shawnee, and the entire Kansas City metro area, .

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