Granite surfaces feature tiny pores that can absorb liquids, staining the surface. Thankfully, granite is one of the least porous natural stones. When properly sealed, it won’t stain at all. But over time, the seal on your granite counter will start to deteriorate, leaving it open to stains.
To avoid stains altogether, it’s important to reseal your countertops every 1 – 5 years. Otherwise, oily and acidic liquids like cooking oil and orange juice can leave a mark. Wiping up spills as soon as they occur will prevent staining. But even after the stain takes root, removing stains from granite is easier than you might think.
How to Remove Stains from Granite Countertops
Before trying to clean the stained area, identify the type of stain. Organic stains from coffee and juices can usually be blotted clean with 12% hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide can lighten dark colored stone. So proceed with caution and be sure to rinse thoroughly with soap and water after blotting it clean.
Removing oil based stains from cooking oils, milk, or cosmetics take a little more work. But you can follow these steps to remove stains from your granite countertops:
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- Blot the stained area with soapy, warm water then rinse.
Once a stain has time to set, wiping it can spread the stain. Instead, blot the area with soapy, warm water and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive brushes as they can damage the seal, increasing the likelihood of future stains.
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- Mix baking soda and water and scrub gently with a soft cloth.
Combine the two substances until the poultice achieves a consistency similar to cream cheese. Then, cover the stain with the poultice and scrub it in with a soft cloth. Rinse and repeat if necessary. If the stain persists after a few rounds of scrubbing, move on to the next step.
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- Cover stain with the baking soda poultice and tape plastic wrap over it.
Baking soda and water can work wonders on even deep stains, but it can take time. After taping plastic wrap over the poultice, wait at least 24 hours for it to dry. Drying may take as long as 72 hours. Once fully dry, wipe away the poultice and rinse the area.
After completing these steps, granite countertops But if the stain isn’t completely gone, it’s okay to repeat the last step a couple of times. When the stain is gone for good, you should reseal your countertops to prevent further stains from becoming an issue.
Now that you know how to get stains out of granite countertops, you might consider installing them elsewhere in your home. Adding granite to your bathroom can dramatically improve its aesthetic appeal. Best Buy Carpet & Granite is the best place to buy countertops of any kind. So give us a call at 630-791-5472 and we’ll help find the perfect counters for your home or business.
