Maintaining the Timeless Beauty of Marble

1. Citrus, Abrasive, and Acidic Cleaning Products

• Hot water is usually sufficient for daily cleaning in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Specially formulated marble cleaners are readily available and can be used as needed.
• Check all cleaning labels to ensure the product is marble-safe.
• Avoid acids, alkalis, citrus oils, vinegar, ammonia, and abrasive additives.
• Do not use scrubbing sponges, steel wool, or other metallic cleaning tools.

2. Red Wine

• Always place wine bottles on a coaster or tray.
• Use care when opening bottles around your marble.
• Do not set corks directly onto your countertop.
• Wipe down any spills or “rings” immediately.

• For light-colored marble, mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda to the consistency of sour cream.
• For dark-colored marble, mix acetone and baking soda to the same consistency.
• Soak the mixture in paper towels and cover the stained area.
• Cover the paper towels with plastic wrap and tape the edges down to maintain moisture.
• Remove the plastic wrap after 24 hours but leave the paper towels over the stain until they dry completely.
• Rinse again with distilled water and dry with a soft towel.
• Repeat as needed up to 5 times on the stained area.

3. Acidic Foods

• Keep cutting boards and clean towels handy for food prep.
• Wipe up any spills immediately to avoid staining.
• Place drinks on coasters and use place mats if eating on marble surfaces.

• Quickly blot the stain to remove all liquid.
• Use warm, distilled water to cut through the acid and prevent further damage.
• If there is a stain, try the poultice paste method outlined in the tips for red wine.
• If the surface has been etched, apply an etch remover or marble polishing product to restore the natural shine.

4. Heat

• Buffer heat sources with trivets or heat-resistant pads.
• Avoid close contact with hot appliances such as fryers and hot plates by using a protective surface on the marble counter.

5. Shower Residue and Soap Scum

• Squeegee your marble after every shower and bath to prevent scaling and etching from evaporated water.

• Use distilled water, a microfiber towel, a marble-specific cleaner, and a squeegee.
• Spray the area with marble cleaner and rub in gentle circles using the microfiber towel.
• Wipe down the area with warm, distilled water and dry the surface with a towel.
• For soap scum, combine warm water with a mild pH-neutral detergent.
• Work in small sections, rubbing the solution over the marble with a soft, non-abrasive sponge.
• Rinse the area with distilled water and use a squeegee or towel to dry the area completely.

6. Sticky Substances

• Clean up spills before they dry.
• Remove shoes before walking on marble floors.
• Avoid using glue and other adhesives on and around your marble surfaces.

• Do not use metal utensils to remove gum, grease, or adhesives.
• Use a plastic putty knife or a fingernail to carefully lift the substance.
• Try mild pH-neutral dish soap mixed with warm distilled water.
• To remove gum, place an ice cube in a plastic bag, rub it on the gum until it hardens, and then scrape the hardened substance off with a plastic or wooden utensil.
• For tougher substances, apply a small amount of diluted rubbing alcohol or mineral spirits with a soft cloth.
• Always spot test before applying to a large area.

7. Bathroom Products and Makeup

• Place a decorative tray on your vanity to store toiletries and bathroom items.
• Keep a cleaning cloth handy for any spills.

• Wipe the area clean with a towel, avoiding rubbing or scrubbing.
• Dilute a mild pH-neutral dish soap with warm water to break up the leftover substances.
• Lightly rinse with warm distilled water and wipe with a microfiber cloth.
• Gently repeat this process until the stain has subsided.

8. Smoke

• Ensure your fireplace is well-vented, directing smoke up through the chimney and not out into the room.
• Keep a soft cloth handy to wipe down any build-up after each fire.

• Apply a solution of warm water and a mild pH-neutral dish soap.
• Rinse with distilled water and dry with a microfiber towel.
• For tougher stains on lighter marble, try a poultice of hydrogen peroxide mixed with baking soda to lift the color.
• Always spot test a poultice solution before tackling a large stain and do not scrub.