Marble Care & Maintenance Guide

Since marble reflects light with a dainty hue, it is commonly used in bathrooms, floors, and fireplaces. As it is slightly more delicate than granite, not many kitchens have marble counters, though marble countertops are increasing in popularity.

Although marble is more delicate than granite it is still a great investment when cared for properly.

Simply cleaning your counters and other marble surfaces with a soft cloth, a little soap, and warm water. Avoid using cleaning products with acids, particularly citrus or lemon based cleaners as these will eat away at the sealant used on the counter. These acids will cause loss of color and or change the color of your countertop. Do not allow liquids or oils to remain on counters overnight. Although marble is heat resistant using protective barriers between your countertops will help prevent against discoloration.

Honed or matte finished marble is necessary to survive the wear and tear that everyday kitchen needs inflict upon marble counters. Marble counters also need to be sealed often with shorter lifespans than the 10-15 years that granite provides. A good warning sign of necessary re-sealing is when spilled liquids bead up on the surface. Avoid using cleaning products with strong acidity, particularly citrus or lemon-based cleaners as these could eat away at the sealant and damage or change the color of the marble surface. Remember to use a protective barrier between your counters and any hot cookware to avoid discoloration. Do not let any liquids or oils remain on counters overnight. Do not let wet cups, glasses or cookware, or other kitchenware stand on the counter for long periods of time. Use coasters, place-mats, and cutting boards instead of placing or chopping things directly on the counter, as marble is softer and can stain easier than granite. With time and use, a highly desired “patina” look can be achieved with marble.

Quality sealers should be applied yearly and be resistant to oil and water stains. With proper sealing your counters should resist typical spills and stains. The best way to test if your countertop is properly sealed is to sprinkle a little bit of water onto the counter top. The water should bead up and not penetrate into the surface of the counter. If the water beads up leave the water sit on the counter for a couple hours. If the water is still all beaded up and has not seeped into the countertop, the countertop is properly sealed. If the countertop has absorbed the water and is now slightly discolored due to water settling into the rock, the countertop should be sealed. Always remember areas that are used more frequently will be more likely to.