How to Clean Marble Countertops: Gentle, Streak-Free DIY Guide

Marble countertops are timeless and luxurious, but their natural beauty comes with sensitivity. 

Unlike granite or quartz, marble is prone to etching — dull spots caused by acids like lemon juice, vinegar, or some commercial cleaners. Etching isn’t a stain, but it can leave your countertop looking scratched or dull.

The good news? With the right approach, you can clean marble countertops safely, prevent etching, and maintain a streak-free, polished surface.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Marble Countertops Safely

1. Remove Loose Debris

Start by wiping your countertop with a soft microfiber cloth. This removes dust, crumbs, or grit that could scratch the surface during cleaning.

2. Use pH-Neutral Cleaners Only

• Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners like vinegar, lemon, or bleach.
  
• Use a marble-specific cleaner or a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water.
  
• For guidance on cleaning other stones safely, see how to clean granite countertops without streaks and how to clean quartz countertops.
  

3. Wipe Gently in Circular Motions

Dampen your cloth with the cleaning solution and wipe in soft circular motions. Focus on sticky or greasy areas, but avoid scrubbing aggressively to prevent scratches.

4. Rinse and Remove Residue

Use a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Residual cleaner can leave streaks or dull the polished finish over time.

5. Dry and Buff

Finish by drying the surface with a soft microfiber cloth. Buff in circular motions to enhance natural shine and maintain a streak-free appearance.

6. Handle Stains Safely

Even well-maintained marble can develop stains. Try these safe methods:

• Oil-based stains: Make a baking soda and water paste, apply over the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and leave overnight.
  
• Organic stains (coffee, wine, juice): Use hydrogen peroxide on a soft cloth, testing in an inconspicuous area first.
  
• Rust stains: Use a marble-safe rust remover.
  
• For full guidance, visit how to remove stains from marble countertops.
  

7. Prevent Future Etching

• Wipe up acidic spills immediately.
  
• Use coasters for citrus, wine, and vinegar-based products.
  
• Periodically polish with a marble-safe polish to maintain the glossy finish.
  
• Integrate marble care into your step-by-step kitchen cleaning routine for broader maintenance.
  

Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Marble

Marble is a beautiful but delicate natural stone. Avoid these common mistakes to maintain its shine and prevent damage:

1. Using acidic or abrasive cleaners → causes etching or dull spots
   Marble reacts with acids like vinegar, lemon, or harsh commercial cleaners. Using them can permanently dull or etch the surface. Always choose a pH-neutral, stone-safe cleaner.
   
2. Scrubbing too hard → scratches the surface
   Avoid abrasive scrubbers or brushes. Use soft microfiber cloths or sponges to gently remove dirt and spills without creating scratches.
   
3. Skipping rinsing → leaves soap residue and streaks
   Cleaning agents left on marble can cause streaks or a filmy appearance. Always rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
   
4. Ignoring protective measures → no coasters or mats
   Placing hot dishes, acidic foods, or liquids directly on marble can lead to etching or stains. Use coasters, trivets, and placemats to protect the stone.
   

💡 Pro Tip: Regular, gentle care preserves marble’s natural beauty while preventing costly damage and discoloration.

FAQs About Cleaning Marble Countertops

Can I use vinegar or lemon on marble?
No — acidic substances etch marble, leaving dull marks. Stick to pH-neutral cleaners.

How do I remove coffee or wine stains safely?
Use a mild dish soap solution or a hydrogen peroxide treatment in a discreet area. For step-by-step methods, see marble stain removal guide.

Will scrubbing with a sponge scratch marble?
Yes, especially abrasive pads. Always use soft microfiber cloths.

How often should I clean marble countertops?
Daily wiping with a pH-neutral solution is ideal. Buffing can be done weekly or as needed.

Can I polish marble to restore shine?
Yes — gentle buffing or marble-safe polish restores luster without etching.

Final Thoughts

Marble countertops are elegant and durable, but proper cleaning is essential to prevent etching and maintain their beauty.

By using pH-neutral cleaners, wiping gently, handling stains safely, and protecting against acidic spills, your marble surfaces will remain glossy and streak-free.

After cleaning, consider exploring how to clean granite countertops without streaks or how to clean quartz countertops if you have multiple types of stone in your home. Integrate all surfaces into your step-by-step kitchen cleaning routine for comprehensive care.