Marble is a very popular material used for countertops in kitchens and bathrooms. One of the things that people fail to remember is that the maintenance of this stone is not the easiest. Marble is a porous stone and if an acidic substance is spilled on it damage can occur. Many common household substances are acidic, this includes tomatoes, wine, milk, and lemon juice. A single splash can etch the marble and leave a permanent scar.
To properly clean your marble countertop you will not want to use bleach, Windex, or vinegar. Using this once can dull the stone. Abrasive cleaners and pads should be avoided as well because these can scratch the surface. To clean your marble countertops you are going to want to use mild soap and some hot water. Using a sponge or soft cloth, wipe the soapy water onto the countertop. This will remove the dirt and grime and not damage your stone.
To provide your countertops with some protection, use a spray sealant about once each month. You will still need to wipe up any spills right away to avoid damage, but the sealant will provide you with a bit more time to mop up before the stain starts to set in.