The major downside to marble is the expense, which can be very high depending upon the type and grade of marble tile that you purchase. Because marble can be costly, it is very important to take the best care possible of your marble once you have it installed to ensure that it will last and remain beautiful for years to come.

Marble is a bit trickier than other natural stones such as granite since it can be stained by certain liquids even after it has been sealed. That is the main reason that granite is a more popular choice for kitchen countertops where there is the potential for lots of spills that could discolor marble.

Marble is used more frequently in bathrooms than kitchens and is often used on the walls, floors, vanities or shelves. The first and most important step in caring for your marble is to be sure that it is sealed with a high quality sealer specifically designed for marble. This will help to prevent some stains and will make cleaning your marble a bit easier and more effective.

Marble can be scratched by grit so it is important not to use an abrasive cleaner when cleaning your granite. Instead, try using liquid dish soap and warm water. Rinse the soapy water and then dry the marble with a soft towel. Acidic cleaners are a definite no-no with marble since they can eat into the marble and cause damage. This includes even mild acids like vinegar or lemon juice, both of which can cause permanent damage to your marble.

If you have tougher stains on your marble that cannot be removed with dish soap and water, you can try using a marble polishing powder. These powders are available at most hardware and home improvement stores and come with complete instructions on how to use them to clean your marble.

If you have a particularly tough stain that won't come out with the soapy water or the polishing powder, your best bet would probably be to call a professional marble cleaner or restorer to tackle the job for you rather than risk further damaging your marble by trying something on your own

The best way to care for your marble is by using precautions to prevent stains and scratching before they happen. Because marble is porous and will absorb moisture, always be sure to immediately wipe up any spills. Use a high quality marble sealer, and reseal as needed to be sure that your marble remains protected and beautiful.