There are two primary types of water stains.
Clean water stain on marble.
For most organic food stains the marble institute recommends cleaning with a solution of 12 hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia.
Water spots and hard water stains can usually be removed with a marble cleaner and a soft towel.
Water stains can be easily removed from marble.
Use a marble cleaner and clean towel.
Remove water marks from marble with soapy water.
These surfaces commonly collect water that splashes onto the marble surface and when you allow the water to air dry you typically get left with cloudy dirty looking spots of residue.
Simple water stains and hard water stains.
Cleaning your marble surface with a cleaner meant for etch marks rust stains or mildew has little effect on removing water spots.
Wipe down your marble with a clean dry rag when you notice water standing on the marble surface.
Just apply the marble cleaner to the spot and rub with a clean towel.
Simple water stains are often the result of condensation from a drinking glass that has been sitting on the countertop for too long.
If you spilled anything oil based like a vinaigrette.
Marble tables are highly susceptible to water rings and water marks.
The best way to address mold stains is to use a product that is specifically designed for removing mold and mildew stains on marble such as this one.
For more information about cleaning with marble cleaners see our marble cleaning how to guide.
Etching is the cause of these seemingly transparent or chalky dull spots as seen in the photo at the top of the page.
In addition spots result from water splashing around the sink.
When a glass is set down on a marble table condensation can drip down the outside of the glass and create a pool of water.
Hot water works best.
Different types of stains require distinct cleaning solutions.
You can either use regular marble cleaner or try removing the stain using grade 0000 steel wool.
On the other hand hard water stains are the result of hard water getting into the pores of the stone.
You have a lot invested in your marble surfaces so a guaranteed safe commercial product is worth the small extra expense.
When the water evaporates it leaves behind calcium and magnesium which form an unsightly stain on your marble.
Cleaning marble to remove water spots and hard water stains.
Water stains are a common issue with marble countertops but pure water will not stain or damage marble.