How Do You Clean Marble Benchtops

To clean marble benchtops, start by wiping the surface with a dry microfibre cloth to remove crumbs and grit that can cause scratching. Next, mix warm water with a few drops of pH-neutral dishwashing liquid or stone soap and gently wipe the benchtop using a soft cloth or sponge, avoiding any scrubbing. After cleaning, rinse the surface with clean water to remove all soap residue, then dry it immediately with a clean microfibre cloth to prevent streaks or water spots. Always avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners, as these can etch and permanently dull the marble.

Marble is a calcareous stone, which means it reacts badly to acids. Gentle and simple is the rule.

1. Dust or wipe first

Use a dry microfibre cloth to remove crumbs and grit.
(Grit causes fine scratches over time.)

2. Clean with warm water + mild detergent

• Mix warm water with a few drops of pH-neutral dishwashing liquid or stone soap
• Use a soft cloth or sponge
• Wipe gently, no scrubbing needed

3. Rinse thoroughly

Wipe again with clean water to remove any soap residue.

4. Dry immediately

Buff dry with a clean microfibre cloth to prevent water marks and streaking.

What not to use on marble 

Avoid anything acidic or abrasive – even “natural” cleaners.

• Vinegar, lemon juice, citrus sprays
• Bathroom, grout, or tile cleaners
• Cream cleansers or powders
• Scouring pads or steel wool
• Multi-purpose sprays that aren’t stone-safe

These will etch marble, leaving dull patches that look like stains but aren’t.

Spills & stains – act fast

• Blot spills immediately (don’t wipe, it spreads the liquid)
• Clean with mild detergent and water
• Dry the area thoroughly

If you notice:

• Dull rings or patches are most likely etching, not a stain
• Dark patches are likely moisture or oil absorption

Light issues can sometimes be improved, but deeper damage usually needs professional honing or polishing, not stronger cleaners.

Extra tips to protect marble benchtops

• Use coasters under drinks (especially wine, coffee, citrus)
• Wipe up oils, sauces, and cosmetics quickly
• Use chopping boards and placemats
• Avoid placing hot cookware directly on the surface

Keep marble properly sealed (sealer slows absorption but doesn’t stop etching)