Short answer
Clean marble with warm water and a pH-neutral stone cleaner, blot spills straight away, and keep acids such as lemon juice, vinegar and many bathroom cleaners off it. Seal it periodically, and re-hone or re-polish worn areas when needed.
Everyday cleaning
Dust or sweep first, then wipe with warm water and a few drops of a pH-neutral stone cleaner on a soft cloth or mop. Dry polished surfaces to avoid water marks.
What to avoid
Marble is mostly calcium carbonate, so acids dissolve its surface and leave dull marks called etching. Keep vinegar, lemon, wine, fruit juice and acidic or abrasive cleaners off it. Avoid scouring pads on polished marble.
Stains and etching
A stain is something absorbed into the stone; an etch is damage to the surface. Oil and coloured stains can often be drawn out with a poultice. Etch marks need re-honing or re-polishing by a stone professional.
Sealing and re-polishing
A penetrating sealer slows down staining but does not stop etching. Kitchens, bathrooms and dining tables benefit most. Heavily used floors can be re-honed and re-polished every few years to bring back the finish.
Bathrooms and tables
In bathrooms, rinse off soap and cosmetics and use stone-safe products. On tables, use coasters and trivets. See our bath collection and dining tables.