Marble is quarried all over the world and is sold as slabs that are custom cut for each installation. Marble’s unique veining comes from being formed at great pressure over millions of years. A marble countertop is a one-of-a-kind work of art.

Your marble countertops will give you years of enjoyment if you protect them with coasters, trivets and cutting boards. Here are a few essential supplies to keep your marble looking pristine.

Sealed For Your Protection
Commercial sealers counteract the porous nature of marble. Sealing your marble countertops will protect them from spills that can lead to stains and etching. You’ll still have to clean up spills quickly, but a sealer provides an extra buffer.

You’ll generally need to seal your marble countertops once every three years.

You’ll Be Able To See Yourself
Marble countertop polish will restore the shine to your countertops with just a bit of effort. Most polishes simply wipe on and off. Follow the application of polish by buffing with a clean cloth.

Marble polish can also counter the effects of minor scratches and etching. Be sure to follow all manufacturer’s instructions and suggestions when using marble countertop polish.

Gentle Cleaners Are Best
Spills and normal cleaning are easily handled with the right products. Avoid abrasive cleaners—even “soft” scrubbing cleaners contain some abrasives. Also, avoid cleaners with ammonia, vinegar or citric additives. These cleaners will etch your marble, leading to a cloudy finish and expensive repairs.

Always use a sponge or soft cloth when cleaning your marble countertops. Cleaners made for marble cleaning are a good choice for regular cleaning; warm water and a pH neutral soap is a great combination for spot cleaning. Borax is also good for cleaning and stain removal.