Our Favorite Cleaning Secrets from the Pros

If you've committed to marble countertops seen in home décor photos everywhere, you've noticed that even when yours are clean enough to eat off of, they can still look grimy. Marble is a porous material that soaks up spills after just 30 minutes, but those stains can also be removed, even if they're older, according to Fredrick Hueston, author of Stain Removal Guide for Stone, Tile and Concrete. For organic stains, mix hydrogen peroxide and flour to the consistency of peanut butter; for oil-based stains, use dishwashing liquid and flour. Spread the mixture over the stain and let it sit for 24 hours; then scrape it off with a putty knife. For truly stubborn stains, you might have to repeat the process.
— Kate Rockwood