Most marble damage is cumulative rather than sudden. A short daily routine prevents nearly all of it.

The routine

1. Dry after abhishek. Wipe the stone with a soft dry cloth, including base edges, rather than letting it air dry.

2. Remove offerings. Clear flowers, food and pigment the same day.

3. Wipe oil promptly. Oil left on the surface oxidises and darkens.

4. Dust ornament recesses with a soft brush once or twice a week.

What to keep at the shrine

• Two soft cloths — one dry, one for plain water.

• A soft brush for ornament recesses.

• A pH-neutral stone cleaner for occasional use only.

What never to use

Vinegar, lemon, bathroom cleaners, scouring pads and steam cleaners. Each causes a specific, avoidable type of damage.

Monthly

One slightly deeper clean with a damp cloth and pH-neutral cleaner, then dry fully. Inspect the base for trapped moisture or staining.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I clean a marble murti?

Dry it after every abhishek, remove offerings daily, dust ornament recesses weekly, and do one deeper clean monthly.

What should I use to clean a marble murti?

A soft dry cloth, plain water, and occasionally a pH-neutral stone cleaner. Never vinegar, lemon, abrasives or steam.

Why should I dry the murti after abhishek?

Air drying leaves mineral deposits and water spotting, and trapped moisture at the base is a common cause of staining.

Where to go next

• Complete marble murti maintenance guide

• Browse marble murtis