How to Clean and Care for Marble Accessories

Marble has been prized for thousands of years — and it's easy to see why. That soft, natural veining and cool, solid weight make every piece feel a little different from the next. But because marble is a natural stone, it needs a bit of gentle attention to keep its shine and character for years to come, whether it's a business card holder on your desk or a set of coasters on your coffee table.

Here's what actually works — and what to avoid.

Why Marble Needs Different Care Than Other Surfaces

Marble is a calcium-based stone, which means it's naturally porous and sensitive to acidity. Unlike granite or quartz, marble can etch (dull or discolor) when it comes into contact with acidic substances — think coffee rings, citrus juice, or wine. It can also absorb liquids if left unsealed or unwiped for too long, leading to staining over time.

None of this means marble is fragile or high-maintenance. It just means it responds best to simple, gentle care rather than harsh cleaning routines.

Daily Care: Keep It Simple

For everyday dusting and light cleaning, all you need is:

• A soft, dry microfiber cloth for dusting
• A slightly damp cloth for wiping away fingerprints or light grime
• Mild dish soap diluted in warm water for anything that needs a bit more attention

Wipe in gentle circular motions, then dry immediately with a clean cloth. Letting marble air-dry (especially with soap residue) can lead to dulling over time, so a quick dry-off after cleaning keeps the natural shine intact.

What to Avoid

This is the part that trips people up most, so it's worth being specific:

• No harsh chemicals. Skip bleach, ammonia-based cleaners, vinegar, and anything marketed as an all-purpose "power" cleaner. These can etch the surface, leaving dull spots that don't buff out.
• No citrus-based cleaners. Even natural, "eco-friendly" cleaners with lemon or citrus oil are acidic enough to damage marble over time.
• No abrasive scrubbers. Steel wool, scouring pads, or anything textured can scratch the polished surface. Stick to soft cloths only.
• No standing liquids. If a piece gets splashed — coffee, wine, juice — wipe it up promptly rather than letting it sit. The longer an acidic liquid stays in contact with marble, the more likely it is to leave a mark.

For Stubborn Spots

If you notice a light water spot or haze, a small amount of baking soda mixed with water into a soft paste can help lift it. Apply gently with a soft cloth, let it sit for a minute, then wipe clean and dry thoroughly. Avoid rubbing hard — let the paste do the work.

For anything deeper or more stubborn, it's worth reaching out to a stone specialist rather than experimenting with stronger products at home. Marble is forgiving with the right care, but it doesn't recover well from harsh chemical damage.

A Little Care Goes a Long Way

Most marble care really comes down to two habits: wipe up spills promptly, and skip anything acidic or abrasive. Follow those two rules, and a piece like a marble business card holder or coaster set will hold its natural beauty for years — often developing a soft, lived-in patina that only adds to its character.

Every piece we make is cut and finished from real stone, which means no two are exactly alike — and with a little simple care, that uniqueness only gets better with time.