How to Get Stains Out of Marble: 7 Simple Ways

Marble is a timeless choice for kitchen countertops, entry and sunroom floors, and bathroom showers. Unfortunately, as with any surface, stains happen.

But don’t panic—here are seven ways, easy tricks, and tips to get stains out of marble with supplies you probably have in the pantry.

How to Get Stains Out of Marble

As a natural stone, marble is porous and splashes and spills from wine, coffee, oily foods, and ink marks can mar the surface.

When a stain happens, start with the most gentle of these cleaning methods and if the stain doesn’t come out, move to stronger cleaners and be patient.

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Dishwashing Liquid and Hot Water

1. In a spray bottle or small bowl, combine one cup of hot water and one-half teaspoon of dishwashing liquid.
2. Apply the solution to the stained area, saturating it well.
3. Let it work for at least five minutes and then clean the area with a microfiber cloth.
4. Dry the area well once the stain is gone and repeat if needed.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleaching agent that can help remove discoloration from wine, tomato sauces, and coffee from marble. If the hydrogen peroxide is fresh and active, you should see some bubbling as it works on the stain.

1. Place several layers of white paper towels over the stained area.
2. Saturate the towels with hydrogen peroxide.
3. Cover the wet paper towels with plastic food wrap, taping down the edges. Cut a few tiny holes in the plastic so the moisture can escape.
4. Allow the towels to stay in place until they dry or the stain is gone (this can take up to 12 hours or more).
5. After the stain is gone, clean the marble with a dishwashing liquid and hot water solution.
6. NOTE: If the marble is a dark color, check the stained area every 30 minutes to make sure that the area is not over-bleached.

Rubbing Alcohol

To remove ink marks, saturate a paper towel with rubbing alcohol and place it over the ink. Leave for a few minutes and then blot away the ink with a dry towel. Repeat until the ink is removed. Rinse the area well with plain water and buff dry.

Corn Starch

1. To remove oily stains on marble countertops, blot away as much of the oil as possible and use a mixture of warm water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid to clean the area.
2. To absorb the remaining oil, sprinkle the oily area with a thick layer of cornstarch.
3. Leave the cornstarch in place for at least four hours to draw the oil out of the marble. Repeat until the stain is gone.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is effective in removing discoloration from marble.

1. Mix a thick paste of baking soda and a small amount of water.
2. Smooth the paste over the stain and cover it with plastic wrap, sealing the edges with tape.
3. Let it sit for 24 hours.
4. Remove the plastic and wipe off the paste with a damp cloth.
5. Repeat the process if discoloration remains.

Tennis Ball

If there are scuffs from appliances on the countertop, rub the marks gently with a new tennis ball.

Superfine Steel Wool

For water marks and mineral buildup around the sink, use superfine No. 0000 steel wool to gently buff away the marks and deposits. Use a light touch and work slowly to prevent scratching the marble.

What Happens If the Stain Doesn’t Come Out?

If you have tried all of the suggested cleaners and the stain remains, give stronger chemicals like ammonia or acetone a try as a last resort. If left on the surface for too long, these products can etch the marble.

• Ammonia: Mix concentrated household ammonia with warm water and apply the solution to the stained area with a soft cloth. Let it work for five minutes and rinse the marble.
• Acetone: Pure acetone may work to remove discoloration. Create good ventilation in the room and apply the acetone to the stained area with a soft cloth. Let it work for about five minutes, wipe it away, and rinse the marble well.

How to Prevent Stains on Marble Countertops

• Consult the manufacturer and consider resealing marble countertops every three to six months for protection from stains and scratches.
• Wipe up spills right away and clean the countertops after every meal preparation with dishwashing liquid and warm water.
• Use coasters, cutting boards, and trivets to keep dishes, food, and cookware off the surface.