• To remove simple stains, use a damp sponge or soft cloth. Using lukewarm water and a mild dish soap, gently rub the stain until the area is clean. Rinse thoroughly.

Draw out stubborn stains by using a poultice (optional).

• In a bowl, combine hydrogen peroxide, a few drops of ammonia, and some shredded paper towel, paper napkins or diatomaceous earth. Stir until your mixture is the consistency of a smooth, thick paste. You only need enough to cover the stain, so start with a small amount of each ingredient and add more as needed.
• Apply the poultice to the stain, approximately 1/4″ (6.5 mm) thick. Overlap the edges of the stain by 1/2″ (13 mm) or so.
• Completely cover the poultice with a piece of plastic wrap and tape down the edges. Poke a few holes in the plastic to vent it.
• Allow the poultice to completely dry. This can take up to 48 hours, so be patient.
• Remove the plastic, pour a little water over the dry poultice and wipe away with a soft cloth. Thoroughly dry the area.
• If the stain persists, repeat this process again. Stubborn stains might require two or three applications.

After stain removal is complete, begin with a clean, dry surface. Marble is soft and scratches easily, and you don’t want to damage it while polishing.

• Use a clean, dry cloth or dust mop to gently remove all dirt, dust and grit.
• Wash away grime as needed with a soft cloth and warm water. Use a mild dish soap if needed. Rinse well with clean, damp cloth.
• Dry the surface well with a clean cloth.

Polish your marble surface. Use a mixture of baking soda and water as a polish.

• Combine 3 tbs. (45 g) of baking soda to 1 qt (0.9 L) of water and mix well.
• Using a clean cloth, apply the mixture to your surface in a thin layer. Allow to dry for about 5 hours.
• Use a clean cloth and warm water to rinse the marble surface.

Dry and buff the marble with another clean cloth. Using a soft microfiber or chamois cloth, gently wipe down the marble in wide, circular motions. Move in progressively smaller circles as the surface dries.

Add a sealant (optional). A sealant won’t prevent all stains, but will provide some protection to your marble surface. You can purchase marble sealant in a spray bottle at a hardware or home goods store.

• Follow the package instructions carefully. The steps below are for general guidance only.
• Tape off any areas around the marble surface that are not to be sealed – wood trim, chrome or stainless steel. Use masking tape or plumber’s tape.
• Spray the marble liberally with the sealant. Make sure the entire surface is completely wet.
• After 15-30 minutes, use a soft, dry towel to wipe the surface completely dry.
• Apply one more coat of sealer, let it sit for 15-30 minutes and wipe dry.
• Allow the marble to cure for 6-8 hours. Do not use the surface during this time.
• Reapply sealant every 1-2 years, depending on how heavily your marble surface is used.