How to Clean Marble Countertops

By
Sarah Aguirre
Sarah Aguirre
Sarah Aguirre is a housekeeping expert with over 20 years of experience cleaning residentially and commercially. Over that time, she has been writing about tips and tricks for housekeeping and organizing a home for national publications.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Updated on 02/15/23
Reviewed by
Katie Berry
Katie Berry
Reviewed by Katie Berry
Katie Berry is a cleaning expert with 30 years of household management experience and 12 years of writing about cleaning methods and routines for Housewife How-Tos. She is the author of several books about homemaking.
Learn more about The Spruce's Review Board
cleaning a marble surface

The Spruce / Ana Cadena 

Project Overview
  • Working Time: 10 - 20 mins
  • Total Time: 20 mins
  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Estimated Cost: $10

Although marble is a beautiful and durable stone surface for kitchen countertops, it requires specific care for cleaning and maintenance. Marble is composed of calcium carbonate, which makes it susceptible to etching by any acid-based foods or cleaning products (including vinegar and lemon juice). Other common cleaning products like bleach and ammonia will also damage marble over time. Also, never use abrasive cleaners or sponges that will damage and dull the finish.

The simplest way to clean marble is by combining a squirt of dish soap with hot water. Spray the surface of the marble, then wipe with a microfiber cloth. Use a second clean cloth to dry the surface as water can leave marks on marble.

Follow these details to safely clean, polish, and seal your marble countertops to keep them looking fabulous for years to come.

What You'll Need

Equipment / Tools

  • Dry microfiber cloth
  • Damp cloth
  • Spray bottle

Materials

  • Neutral pH stone cleaner
  • Mild dish soap
  • Marble sealant (if appropriate)
  • Marble polishing powder
  • Baking soda

Instructions

cleaning a marble surface
The Spruce / Ana Cadena  

  1. Wipe with a Cleaner or Mild Soap

    Use a damp cloth and a pH-neutral cleaner designed for stone (check with your countertop company for their recommendations) to clean your countertop.

    Alternatively, you can also use mild dish soap and water. Wipe and scrub gently with a damp, soft cloth.

    resealing a marble counter
    The Spruce / Ana Cadena 

  2. Rinse with a Damp Cloth

    Wipe the counter with a clean, damp cloth or towel. Rinse the cloth with water and wipe until all of the suds are gone.

  3. Dry with a Soft Cloth

    Dry the countertop with a soft, dry cloth or towel to prevent spots or streaking

  4. Dust Weekly

    Dust at least once a week with a soft microfiber cloth.

    Tip


    Be sure to share your countertop care routine with visitors who like to help in the kitchen so that they don't accidentally use abrasives to clean the marble surface.

  5. Polish Occasionally as Needed

    Sprinkle baking soda on the countertop and rub gently with a damp cloth to polish the surface. Use a damp towel to wipe away the soda, and dry with a soft cloth.

    For mild etching, look for a marble polishing powder that is approved for countertop use and follow the directions on the package.

  6. Seal as Directed

    Seal your countertops regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer, or when you notice that water fails to bead up when it splashes on the surface.

    Sealing helps prevent stains and damage, and it keeps the marble countertops looking beautiful.

    Note, there are some marble surfaces that do not need sealing, so check with your manufacturer or retailer to make sure your countertop requires sealant.

Additional Tips for Marble Countertop Care

  • When you use a marble countertop for food preparation, you will need to wipe up any spills immediately. Splashes of acidic foods and drinks like tomatoes, citrus fruits, sodas, coffee, wine, fruit juice, and even vinegar will damage marble.
  • You can also put down a protective sheet, such as silicone or plastic, or utilize a cutting board while working on a marble countertop.
  • Marble is tolerant of hot pot and pans, but you should always protect it with a trivet. Use placemats and coasters under plates and glasses when serving on a marble countertop.