I don’t usually feel strongly about differing design opinions online, but it’s been fascinating to see how much conversation this one choice in my kitchen has sparked. Yes, I went with marble! Even knowing full well it’s not the easiest to clean or maintain, especially with the wear and tear of a family of seven. And I’d still choose it again!
Rooms where I’ve used marble:
If you’re curious to see how the kitchen turned out, I’ll link the final photos here! It feels so good to have the project wrapped up. These days, my Sunday afternoons are spent tidying up—not painting trim or installing lights—and that alone feels like a win worth celebrating.
Back to marble — they are INVESTMENT! Not only financially, but in the time it takes to care for them properly.
That’s why today I’m diving into how to clean marble countertops so they get better with time, not worse! By the end of this post, I hope you feel confident that your future or current marble countertops are easier to manage. Let’s walk through it together.
Why Cleaning Marble Matters (But Is So Tricky To Do)
Marble is a natural stone, and part of its beauty comes from its unique veining and organic look. However, that same natural composition makes it porous and prone to staining. Unlike engineered surfaces like quartiz, marble can absorb liquids and be damaged by acidic substances (like lemon juice or vinegar). This is why cleaning marble requires a bit more thought and care compared to other countertop materials.
On marble countertops, you’re going to see things like scratches, ring stains, and some discoloring — unless you take care of them. Regular maintenance not only preserves the look of your marble but also protects your investment. When properly cared for, marble countertops can last for decades, maintaining their elegance and charm.
For our kitchen countertops, I went with Calacatta Viola Polished Marble from Southern Stone here in Nashville, and I am so in love. The dramatic veining is just stunning in person and brings such a luxe, high-end feel to the space. Not only are they beautiful, but with the right care, they’ve been super easy to keep clean. I’ve had marble in several spaces over the years, and this is hands down one of my favorite looks yet.
To check out the details of the marble we used in the Monarch Colonial, check out my post: Monarch Colonial Kitchen Countertops Info.
What Is Patina (on Marble)?
The patina of it all! I’m after clean counters, but I also want that lived-in imperfection that marble is known for. That is called patina.
When it comes to marble, patina is the soft wear that builds up over time—things like faint etch marks from drinks, light scratches, or subtle discoloration from daily use. It’s what gives marble its character. Instead of staying pristine, it develops a story. Some people see these changes as flaws, but I think they make the stone even more beautiful. It’s part of what makes marble feel timeless and lived-in.
If you’re not interested in patina, I would be extra careful with your marble surfaces or avoid marble altogether. It can be reduced, but not avoided. It’s the very reason so many people CHOOSE marble — it has so much character!
What Can Damage Your Marble Countertops
Marble is more delicate than other countertop materials, so it’s easy to make cleaning mistakes that cause permanent damage. Here is what NOT to do with your marble surface:
Using Acidic Cleaners: Avoid vinegar, lemon juice, or harsh bathroom cleaners, as they can etch the surface and cause erosion.
Abrasive Scrubbing: Never use rough sponges or steel wool—they’ll create permanent scratches in the marble.
Ignoring Spills: Leaving acidic spills (like coffee or wine) can stain the marble if not cleaned immediately.
Skipping Sealing: Unsealed marble is a magnet for stains and damage that may be impossible to fix.
Pro Tip: To check if your marble needs resealing, simply drop a small amount of water on the surface. If it absorbs quickly within a few minutes, that’s a clear sign it’s time to reseal.
How To Clean Marble Countertops: My Daily Routine
To keep my marble countertops looking their best, I have established a simple daily routine I highly recommend to anyone with the same material:
- Wipe Down Daily: Use a soft, damp microfiber cloth to remove dust and spills.
- Use pH-Neutral Cleaners: Stick to gentle, marble-safe cleaners to avoid damaging the surface. Truthfully, I just use water, but you can also use a gentle dish soap.
- Dry Immediately: Always dry with a soft towel after cleaning to prevent water spots.
- Avoid Leaving Spills Overnight: Quickly clean up any spills to avoid staining.
Dealing With Etching: What To Do If Your Marble Gets Damaged
Etching happens when something acidic hits your marble and leaves behind a dull spot. If you’ve noticed a few marks like that on your counters, don’t worry. Here’s what you can do to smooth things out and bring back the shine.
- Use A Marble Polishing Powder: Gently buff the etched area with a polishing powder designed for marble. I’ve been seeing some etching powders on Amazon which I haven’t tried yet — but I feel like I need to! For science, of course.
- Call A Professional For Deep Etching: If the damage is severe, consult a stone restoration professional. I promise, it’s worth the upfront cost because they can save your marble.
REMEMBER, Some Patina Is Inevitable
While you want to avoid deep etching damage, it’s important to understand that marble naturally develops a patina over time. This includes softer, more subtle etching marks that come from everyday use. These marks aren’t necessarily flaws — they give marble its unique character and vintage appeal.
If you’re bothered by this natural aging process, marble might not be the right choice for your countertops. Consider other stones like quartz or granite, which resist etching better. Ultimately, it’s about balancing marble’s beauty with your lifestyle and maintenance expectations.
How To Clean Marble Countertops So They Stay Looking New
Proper care is key to maintaining the beauty of your marble countertops, and one of the most important steps is sealing them. Sealing creates a protective barrier that helps guard against stains, spills, and etching. Depending on the type of marble you have and how much it’s used, it’s typically recommended to reseal your countertops every 6 to 12 months.
We used Breccia Rosa Marble for our pantry countertops, and I’m still obsessed with how much warmth and character they add to the space. With the right care, they’ve held up beautifully, proof that marble can be practical and pretty!
For more details on our full pantry renovation, check out my post about it here!
With a little attention and the right care, your marble countertops can stay looking stunning for years. By cleaning them regularly and sealing them as needed, you’ll not only maintain their elegance but also extend their lifespan.
Have any tips or experiences on how to clean marble countertops? Please let me know in the comments below! And to keep up with the latest on the blog, check out my recent posts:
I just finished touring Versailles and kept thinking how your new marble in the butler’s pantry is giving Marie Antoinette vibes from the pink marble in her space – you have such great taste! And the marble there has been around for so long – why are we afraid to use it?? Loved this timely article.
Oh wow, I love that comparison — Marie Antoinette vibes, yes! 😍 I totally agree, marble has such timeless beauty, and I think we sometimes overthink using it. So glad you enjoyed the article! Thank you for being here!!
What finish is best for marble? A honed or matte . Just wondering.