My thoughts about working with marble countertops

When we renovated our kitchen last year, we chose to install grey marble worktops. On the one hand, we simply couldn't imagine anything else in the kitchen. On the other hand, we were nervous — was it the right decision? Would they be a practical choice for a daily-use kitchen? What about etching and staining?

Read on to find out what we think about our marble worktops, some time after moving into our new home.

The first week

When we moved in, we didn't have a worktop yet. We were working hard to get the kitchen set up before family came to visit, so while we were putting away spices and other staples, the installer had not yet arrived to seal the marble. Some cinnamon or cumin was spilled on the worktop, and it left a brownish spot that wouldn't come off.

The following day, a baking tray was left on the counter and left a small rusty mark underneath. Despite scrubbing, the stain remained.

These are the only visible marks we have, and they all occurred before the worktops were sealed. Understandably, we were cautious about placing anything on the surface for a short while afterwards.

After sealing

Once the worktops were sealed, there have been almost no issues with staining. We are careful to wipe up certain things like cumin and strong spices quickly, but we don't worry about splashes of juice or coffee — they wipe right up, even if they have dried or been left for a while.

One year on

Looking back, choosing marble was absolutely the right decision for us. Yes, it requires a little more attention than some other materials, but it has never felt like a burden. The worktops have developed a gentle patina over the past year — small signs of a kitchen that is truly lived in — and if anything, this only adds to their character.

We still seal the surface once a year, which takes no more than an afternoon. Day to day, a damp cloth is all it takes to keep things looking beautiful. We have had friends and family comment on the worktops every single time they visit, and we always feel a quiet sense of pride when they do.

If you are considering marble for your kitchen and worrying whether it is too high maintenance, our honest answer is: do not let that put you off. Be sensible, seal it properly, and wipe up spills when they happen. Do that, and marble will reward you with a kitchen that looks and feels truly special — every single day.