Q: How can I remove water stains from polished marble window sills? — D.R., Sunset Hills

A: Marble is a porous stone that attracts stains from all manner of liquids, including water.

Make sure while cleaning marble that you use natural cleaning agents so you don't damage it. Examples of natural cleaners include baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and cornstarch.

Always blot the stain instead of wiping it. You should use paper towels, cotton balls or gauze. This will help absorb the stain back out of the material.

Because marble is such a porous material, you can prevent this from happening in the future by applying a good natural stone sealer. Of course, this is a process that needs to be repeated over time, probably every one or two years depending on the location of the stone.

Dave Foster is the store manager for the Home Depot in Brentwood.

Do you have a home improvement or decorating question?

E-mail abertrand@post-dispatch.com with your question, initials and hometown, and we'll try to get it answered by our experts.