The Absolute Best Way To Clean Marble Surfaces Is Already In Your Home

Marble countertops and surfaces bring a sense of timeless luxury to any home, elevating your kitchen or bathroom from basic to beautiful in an instant. While it's undeniably gorgeous, marble is also notoriously sensitive. One wrong cleaning move, spill, or scratch can lead to dull spots, etching, or permanent stains. That's why caring for marble can sometimes feel a little stressful. The good news: You don't need to spend a fortune on special marble cleaners or hire a professional to keep your surfaces looking spotless. In fact, the best way to clean marble countertops and other surfaces is probably sitting in your kitchen right now: Plain old dish soap.

A mild, pH-neutral dish soap is gentle enough not to harm the delicate surface of marble, making this cleaning method a great way to protect and care for marble to avoid damage. Unlike those fancy specialty products, it won't cost you a fortune. Plus, it's most likely already in your home, so you can save yourself a trip to the store.

Start by filling a bucket or bowl with warm water, then add just a few drops of pH-neutral dish soap. Swish it around to create a gentle sudsy solution. Dip a soft microfiber cloth into the mix, wring it out well, and gently wipe down your marble surface. Rinse the cloth frequently as you clean, and change out the water if it gets murky. Once the surface looks clean, go over it again with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Finally, dry the marble completely with a fresh microfiber towel — this helps protect the sealant and prevents soap and water spots or stains from forming.

Aside from your chosen cleaning solution, one of the most common cleaning mistakes that might be staining your marble is using abrasive cloths or scrubbing sponges. Even if you're trying to tackle a tough spot, rough materials can scratch the surface or strip away the protective sealant, leaving the marble vulnerable to staining. When you're giving your marble a going over with dish soap, stick to soft microfiber cloths to keep the surface looking its best.