How to Care for Marble: What to Know Before You Style It

Marble is one of the most beautiful and timeless materials you can bring into your home. Its unique veining, natural variation, and tactile appeal make it a favourite for everything from countertops to sculptural decor. But while marble is strong, it’s also a porous natural stone—meaning a little care goes a long way in keeping it looking its best.

Whether you’ve just brought home your first marble piece or want to keep your House of 9 trays, candle holders, and bowls in perfect condition, here’s what you need to know.

Marble is a metamorphic rock, which means it’s naturally porous and can absorb liquids and oils. Because of this, it can stain or etch (leave dull marks) if not cared for properly—especially with acidic substances like lemon juice, vinegar, or wine.

Good to Know: Each piece of marble is unique—no two are the same. Natural markings, veins, and colour variation are not flaws; they’re part of what makes it so special.

For daily cleaning, use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a mild, pH-neutral soap. Avoid harsh cleaners, abrasive sponges, or anything acidic.

Tip: Wipe up spills as soon as they happen, especially if your marble piece is in the kitchen, bathroom, or styled near candles or oils.

Marble can be sensitive to moisture and heat. When styling your tray or candle holder, avoid placing items like wet bottles, plant pots without a liner, or hot mugs directly on the stone.

Try This: Use coasters or protective pads under scented candles, ceramics, or other items that may sweat or leave residue.

Some marble pieces—especially larger, high-use surfaces—can benefit from sealing to protect against stains. For smaller decorative pieces, sealing is usually optional, but still helpful if the marble is exposed to oils or liquids.

Note: If you choose to seal, use a marble-specific sealant and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Reapply once or twice a year if needed.

While marble is durable, it can chip or crack if dropped. Handle your House of 9 pieces gently, especially during styling, cleaning, or moving them between spaces.

Storage Tip: If you ever pack your marble piece away, wrap it in soft cloth or bubble wrap and avoid stacking heavy items on top.

At House of 9, we’ve hand-selected each marble piece for its quality, distinctiveness, and sculptural presence. Here are four pieces to care for and treasure:

Zander Candle Holder in Emperador Dark Brown – A grounding, moody accent that adds texture and tone to any space.

Zander Candle Holder in Calacatta Viola – A bold, expressive piece that makes a statement through dramatic veining.

Iris Scalloped Marble Tray in Carrara White – Refined and soft-toned, this tray brings structure and contrast to light spaces. 

Iris Scalloped Marble Tray in Emperador Dark – Deep and warm, it anchors a styling vignette and elevates everyday objects.

Marble is a natural investment—both in beauty and longevity. With a few simple habits, your marble decor will stay beautiful for years to come. Whether it's the sculptural silhouette of our Zander Candle Holders or the curved form of our Iris Scalloped Trays, caring for marble helps preserve the unique character that makes each piece timeless.

Explore the House of 9 marble collection and style with confidence—knowing that lasting beauty starts with mindful care.