How to clean Marble
Cleaning marble comes down to one rule: pH-neutral cleaners and soft tools. Marble is a metamorphic stone prized for its luminous depth and flowing veining. It is calcium-based, which makes it beautiful but reactive — acids etch it and oils stain it if left unsealed.
What you'll need
- • pH-neutral stone cleaner (or a few drops of dish soap in warm water as a backup)
- • Two soft microfiber cloths
- • Warm distilled water
- • Soft bristled brush for textured surfaces
Step-by-step
- 1Dust or sweep loose debris off the surface — grit acts like sandpaper under a cloth.
- 2Spray the stone cleaner directly on the surface (not the cloth) and let it dwell 15–30 seconds.
- 3Wipe with a damp microfiber in light overlapping passes — never scrub.
- 4Rinse with a clean cloth and warm distilled water to remove cleaner residue.
- 5Buff dry with the second microfiber to prevent water spots.
- 6Clean with a dedicated marble-safe cleaner; dry with a microfiber cloth to avoid water marks.
Do not use
- Vinegar, lemon, or any acidic cleaner — Acid etches marble permanently — leaves dull, lighter spots.
- Bleach — Strips sealer and can discolor the surface.
- Abrasive scrub pads or scouring powder — Scratches the finish.
- All-purpose sprays not labeled stone-safe — Most contain solvents or acids that damage natural stone.
When to call a pro
Call a stone restoration pro for deep etches, large stains, or to refinish a polished surface.
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