How to Clean Marble Floors

December 16, 2025

There's something timeless about marble floors. Their natural veining, cool surface, and subtle sheen instantly elevate any space, whether it's a luxurious entryway or a modern bathroom. But as elegant as marble looks, it's also notoriously sensitive. One wrong cleaning product or overlooked spill can leave dull spots, etch marks, or stains that ruin its pristine finish. So how do you clean marble floors without damaging them?


Keeping marble looking as stunning as the day it was installed requires more than a quick mop and a bottle of all-purpose cleaner. Understanding the nature of marble—and treating it with the right care—can preserve its shine and prevent costly restoration down the line.

Why Marble Needs Special Care

Marble isn't just another stone. It's a metamorphic rock formed from limestone, meaning it contains calcium carbonate—a mineral that reacts easily with acids. That's why substances like vinegar, citrus, or even certain soaps can etch the surface, leaving behind dull, uneven patches.


Beyond chemical damage, marble is also porous, which means it can absorb liquids and stains if not properly sealed. Everyday substances like coffee, wine, or even water can darken the stone if left unattended. Over time, small scratches from shoes, grit, or furniture movement can dull its natural shine.

Cleaning marble floors the wrong way can do more harm than good, so the goal isn't just to make them look clean—it's to protect the stone's integrity and finish.

The Right Way to Clean Marble Floors

Start simple. The best daily routine for marble floors begins with removing dirt and debris before it can scratch the surface. A soft, dry microfiber dust mop or a vacuum with a soft brush attachment works perfectly. Avoid abrasive brooms or vacuums with rotating brushes, which can leave fine scratches behind.


For regular cleaning, always use a pH-neutral cleaner designed for natural stone. These formulas are gentle enough to lift dirt without breaking down a protective seal, assuming the marble has been sealed, which we recommend. Never use acidic or alkaline products—even common ones like vinegar or ammonia—because they can strip away the sealer and etch the marble.

When mopping, dampen the mop rather than soaking it. Excess water can seep into the pores of the stone, especially if unsealed, leading to discoloration or mineral buildup. Rinse frequently and dry the surface afterward with a clean towel or microfiber cloth to prevent streaks and water spots.

Dealing with Stains and Etch Marks

Even with careful maintenance, marble isn't immune to accidents. When a spill happens, the key is to act fast. Blot—don't wipe—the liquid with a soft cloth to prevent it from spreading. If the spill leaves a mark, a poultice made from baking soda and water, for example, can sometimes lift mild stains. Apply it to the affected area, cover it with plastic wrap, and leave it for 24 to 48 hours before gently wiping it away.


For deeper stains or etching caused by acidic substances, DIY methods often fall short. That's where professional stone cleaning services, like those offered by Sir Grout, make all the difference. Trained technicians can deep clean marble using specialized equipment that safely removes embedded grime and restores the stone's natural clarity without causing surface damage.

Restoring the Shine

Even well-maintained marble will eventually lose some of its original luster. Foot traffic, cleaning over time, and general wear can dull its reflective surface. When that happens, simple cleaning won't be enough—you'll need professional honing and polishing to restore its smooth, glossy finish.

Professionals use progressively finer diamond abrasives to remove surface scratches, then polish the stone to achieve its signature mirror-like sheen, or whatever level of shine desired. The process requires expertise and precision, ensuring that the marble is renewed without altering its natural color or texture.


After the surface is restored, the next crucial step is sealing. Sealing marble helps protect against future staining and moisture absorption. At Sir Grout, we use Stone Armor, our exclusive stone sealer designed to create a long-lasting barrier while enhancing the stone's beauty. Stone Armor penetrates deeply into the marble, providing invisible protection that preserves the stone's natural look and texture.

Maintaining Marble Floors the Right Way

Once your marble floors have been cleaned and sealed, a few good habits will help you keep them in pristine condition.

Wipe up spills immediately, especially anything acidic like juice or wine. Place rugs or mats at entryways to trap grit and dirt before it reaches the stone, and use felt pads under furniture to prevent scratching. When cleaning, always stick to pH-neutral solutions and avoid abrasive pads or powders.


You'll also want to monitor the sealer over time. Depending on use and traffic, most marble floors benefit from resealing every one to two years. A simple way to check is to sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface—if the water beads up, the seal is intact; if it soaks in, it's time to reseal.

Why Professional Stone Cleaning Matters

No matter how careful you are, everyday life takes a toll on marble floors. Dust, humidity, and constant use gradually wear down the surface and diminish the stone's natural brilliance. Regular professional maintenance not only revives the appearance of marble but also extends its lifespan.

Sir Grout's stone cleaning service is specifically designed for delicate surfaces like marble. Our technicians use state-of-the-art equipment and proprietary products to remove deep-seated dirt, polish away scratches, and re-seal the stone for lasting protection. With years of experience restoring marble in homes and commercial spaces, we understand the precision this material demands.

And when it comes to sealing, Stone Armor is our go-to product for marble care. It provides superior protection without changing the look or feel of the surface, helping your marble floors maintain that natural glow that sets them apart.

Trust Sir Grout to Care for Your Marble Floors

Marble is more than just a flooring choice—it's an investment in elegance. But preserving that elegance requires expertise, precision, and the right products. With Sir Grout's stone cleaning and sealing services, your marble floors can continue to shine for years to come.


Our technicians are highly trained in marble restoration and maintenance, combining advanced cleaning techniques with specialized products like Stone Armor to deliver results that last. Whether your marble needs a light refresh or a full restoration, we'll assess your surface, explain every step of the process, and leave your floors looking as radiant as the day they were installed.

We offer free in-home consultations to help you understand your marble's condition and the best care options. Call us at (866) 476-8863 or click the "Schedule a Free Quote" button to get started. To receive expert tips and updates about our stone care services, subscribe to our newsletter and keep your floors looking flawless year-round.