Nothing compares to the appearance of marble, and ordinary cleaning keeps it that way. So you've got a conundrum. You want marble countertops, but you're more than a little concerned about how to take care of them. Not to worry, it's really simple.

Marble has a longstanding reputation as a fussy, easily damaged stone. While part of that isn't necessarily untrue -- you can damage marble -- it's not much different from caring for any other natural stone. The upside is that you get the beauty and classic good looks of a stone that never goes out of style. A Little About the Characteristics of Marble Marble is, of course, a natural stone. Much of it is found in Italy, but it's also found in Spain, Scotland, and even the United States, among other locations. By and large, the most commonly seen color is white with gray veining. But some marble is a creamy beige. Connemara marble, which is found in Galway, is green. Etowah, which is found in Georgia, is pink. Some marble is brown, and there are other variations. The most important characteristic of marble is that it's a carbonate, which makes it susceptible to etching and stains. Don't worry just yet. Remember that this stone has been used successfully, even on floors, for centuries. Routine Cleaning Could Not Be Simpler A marble countertop from BT Kitchen and Bath is sealed before you use it. But that doesn't affect its beauty. A sealant penetrates the stone, it doesn't sit on top like a film that you could scratch. You'll never know it's there until you need it. For everyday cleaning, The Kitchn says all that you need is a warm, soft dishcloth and maybe a little dish liquid. Throw everything you have learned about so-called "safe" and natural cleaners out the window, because vinegar and lemon juice will absolutely harm your marble. Clean the counter as you would a glass or a plate in the sink. Wash a little, and then rinse a little. Nothing more, nothing less. And wipe it dry with a soft towel. That's it! Few materials look as perfectly at home in any kitchen as the unique veining and colorations of marble. But What About Stains and Etching?

It's true, even the best sealed marble will, in all likelihood, experience some etching and a stain at some point. But remember the marble used on high-traffic floors, and how it still looks beautiful. Etching happens when an acid, such as lime juice from a cocktail or tomato sauce from spaghetti, contacts the countertop. Because of the sealer, you can wipe it up right away and suffer no ill effects. If it sits, you'll likely have some etching. Fine marble polishing powder, recommend by Houzz, helps minimize the appearance. Stains can be more difficult, but they certainly don't spell disaster. A simple poultice of baking soda and water left overnight will lift many stains right out. For other stains, such as oils, a little mineral spirits followed by your usual soap and water cleaning should do the trick. Marble has a reputation as a temperamental stone, but that's not entirely fair. As compared to most non-stone countertops, it couldn't be more resilient. Compared to other stones, it's a bit softer, and a bit more prone to damage. But with the right attention and care, it will remain beautiful for many years to come. Another point worth remembering is that most people who own marble embrace the natural aging of the stone. With a slight etch here and there, the countertop develops a patina and an aged authenticity that is not found in any other stone. Countertops are never an easy decision, especially when you're concerned about how they'll hold up. Contact us at BT Kitchen and Bath, and speak with an expert who can not only help you design the perfect kitchen but also explain what living with the natural beauty of marble is really like.

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