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How To Remove Stains From Granite Countertops?

Enriched with extra shine promoters for superior performance it quickly removes dust and stains leaving the surface shining. Its superior oil and grease removal property helps in effectively removing stubborn grease from utensils leaving them shining like new. Prevent illness before it starts spreading by adopting few easy hygienic cleaning practices on a daily basis. Germs don’t just affect the hard surfaces but also soft surfaces such as furniture fabric, curtains, and beddings within 20 minutes. We can make a to-do list of every possible area of the house that requires cleaning and determine the frequency required for the task. That is mostly because we miss out on the main areas that we had to focus on while cleaning. You should remember to clean the countertops and basin with disinfectant liquids every time you are done and wipe it with a clean cloth. Beware of electric plug holes and refrain from spraying inside them with switches on. Don’t forget to sweep the top of higher placed furniture, or they would turn into cobweb heavens. Try wiping the bath clean with a bathroom cleaner after each soak. Rotten food is the most attractive breeding ground for all types of bacteria. Use hot water and an all-purpose cleaning solution to clean up the messy spills. Remember to remove the items from the fridge before cleaning, and wipe the surface with a clean cloth before returning the items to the fridge. Your comb, your shaving razor, or even your toothbrushes are often in range of that germ spread. Also it makes the cleaning of the toilet a part of your daily routine. To keep your hygiene routine, you should clean your stove by pulling it away from the wall, and then look behind it, you will find traces of the meals that you have cooked. Spray from toilets, dirt from hands, and drips from just-used toothbrushes tend to collect at the bottom. In case it is a very large stain put salt on the paper before spreading the fabric on the top. You can also use a nail polish remover to dab the stain with cotton ball to absorb the stain. Stains should be tackled as soon as possible as fresh stains are easier to remove than the old ones. Floors are a part of every action that happens inside your house. Do not use any kind of abrasive scrubber on ceramic floors as it will scratch the floor. Use normal cotton mops or micro fibre mops for best results. Polished marble flooring is not as porous, but it still can get stained. Mix a neutral cleaning liquid into warm water and use this solution to mop the floor. For floors with lacquer or varnish on it, use solvent-based cleaners and polish to maintain the floor, never use water unless treated with polyurethane. For specific stains, use damp white cotton towel to soak the stain first and then gently wipe clean the stain. Never use a brush to remove stains as it can damage the fibres of the carpet. Keep all cleaning liquids and solutions out of the reach of children. Moreover, in spite of all the meticulous cleaning, the glass does not seem sparkling clean because of the fabric streaks and lint. Let’s figure out how to use the strength of a glass cleaner and a lot of intelligence to get bright, sparkling clean windows with less effort. Use only a lint-free microfiber cloth or crumpled up newspaper (only sections in black and white) for a sparkling and streak free finish. Mirrors in bathrooms especially, tend to accumulate an unsightly layer of toothpaste, hairspray, or other bathroom products and even water marks. To prevent your granite from getting old you need to make sure that the surface is layered with a sealant. If the granite absorbs the water rather than causing it to float, it is not properly sealed. The acid in coffee, fruit juice and other common beverages can create deep scratches on the counter’s surface. It has optical brighteners for white and coloured clothes that give a new life to the clothes after every wash. This gentle and antibacterial detergent leaves the fabric soft and germ free making it safe for baby clothes. Its superior cleaning properties effectively remove dirt, grime and odour from clothes. Germ spread can thrive on every surface such as floors, doorknobs, handrails etc. This is because there are times when parts of the house get much dirtier than usual. No matter how hard we try to throw every germ out of our porch, we still end up getting sick. Some are the most obvious places for germs and some are not so obvious ones, but with the right insight and the right products, you can tackle any of these dirty surfaces. A lot of time is spent around the kitchen washing utensils or food while preparing meals. Basin is an attractive breeding spot for germs remember to keep an all-purpose cleaner under the basin to wipe of the counter and the tap after every use. Use a soaked cotton with a non-conductor pincer to clean them with the power switch off. These places are away from your eyes making them the least attended ones. This will remove stagnant dirt and grime but remember to rinse the bath after cleaning otherwise the dirt won’t be drained off. Make cleaning of the fridge an essential part of your cleaning schedule. Remember to use different scrubs for cleaning the sinks and the utensils as this can cause the transfer of germs to your dishes. Make sure you close the lid before flushing to prevent spreading toilet germs. In case there are any stains left use one part of white vinegar and one part of water. If that doesn’t work, then try soaking the stained portion of the cloth in alcohol for a few minutes before washing the garment. Soak garment in warm water and dab the spot with a sponge that has been coated with dishwashing soap. For better results rub with club soda until the stain disappears. Gently rub the stained area between your fingers every few minutes. It sometimes takes more than one round of treatment to completely get rid of a stain. All the dust with your shoes makes a mark on your floors and if something spills then it definitely needs immediate attention. The moment anything spills on the floor, use a mop to wipe the area. In case the wiping leaves marks on the floor you can mop again with white vinegar and water. Never pour water on the floor directly as it will loosen the surface and the vinyl will detach from the surface below. These are man-made tiles; they are baked and painted so soils do not penetrate inside the tiles. Use a damp mop and a neutral floor cleaner to clean the floor. That is why you should use a sealer made for this type of flooring. Care of wooden floor would depend on the kind of sealant used on the floor. Polyurethane makes the life of the floor longer and demands relatively less maintenance. If the wooden floor has been treated with polyurethane, use a damp mop to clean the surface with a cle aning solution.

How To Remove Stains From Granite Countertops | Duration 2 Minutes 54 Seconds Vacuum the floor everyday using the carpet brush attachment for best results. Weekly or monthly sanitize your carpet by applying steam or sanitizing solution. Take extra caution when floors are wet, as they will be slippery. Begin by wiping the area of any loose debris like lint or dust. Start by horizontal strokes on the interior and vertical ones on the exterior, that way it is easy to spot any smearing on the glass and touch ups can be done, making your job easier. This can be even worse if you have hard water that causes calcium or lime to build up. Wipe clean the surface once again with a dried micro-fibre cloth for a sparkling clean finish. If you want to check whether your granite is properly sealed, you can splash some water on its surface. As long as a cutting board is used, normal cleaning should keep the countertop looking great. But just like granite, marble countertops require a seal, and without proper sealing, these countertops will soak up stains that would stay for long.

Stone and Granite Stain Removal by natural-stone-interiors.com

Or, your husband serves you breakfast in bed and the butter melts all over the countertop before you have a chance to get to it. Deeply embedded, stubborn, and/or metal stains usually require the help of a stone care specialist. Normal sun and rain action will usually bleach out the stain. For stone and granite stain removal of oil based paints & products buy an oil stain remover poultice. If you do not feel comfortable or your stain appears too difficult to treat yourself, call a stone care professional. Maybe you didn’t notice your best friend spilled her red wine on your beautiful stone bar until you got up the next morning.

How To Remove Wine Stains From Granite | Duration 45 Seconds Whatever the reason, most surface stains can be removed by you with the help of an appropriate cleaning product or household chemical. Your first step in stone, marble and granite stain removal is to identify the stain. Once you have identified your stain, look below for your stone, marble and granite stain removal solution. If you are uncomfortable with the possibility of etching your stone’s surface, call a stone care professional. Or use a soap scum & film remover that’s safe for stone. These steps are usually effective for stone & granite stain removal.

Stone Information — Countertop World by countertopworldar.com

Indoors, polished granite slabs and tiles are used in countertops, tile floors, stair treads and many other practical and decorative features. Granite is the best kind of stone to use in your kitchen, due to its versatility, range of colors and extreme durability. Sealing granite is one of the things that scares people away from having a granite countertop. However, even water can soak into a granite countertop and leave a dark colored spot but this will evaporate in minutes. Granite counters are heat resistant and can withstand the heat of hot pots and pans without damage to a certain temperature. Also, any radon from granite countertops inkitchens or bathrooms is likely to be diluted in the typical home since thoserooms are usually well ventilated. However, it is extremely unlikely that granite countertops in homes could increase the radiation dose above that the normal, natural background dose that comes from soil and rocks. The non-porous and non absorbing nature of quartz stone surface makes it very hygienic; it does not harbor bacteria, which makes it a safe choice for food preparation on the counter surfaces. Quartz is becoming more and more desired due to the color selection, less movement and less maintenance. Due to the absence of the movement in most quartz the seams are easier to hide and in some cases can become invisible. Onyx is a calcareous stone, formed by dissolving limestone and redepositing as a new kind of stone. Onyx is typically used in bathrooms and other lightly used areas. When cleaning your counters put the cleaner on a cloth and not directly on the counters. These specialty cleaning agents will remove oil, residue, and help clean up everyday food or bath and beauty product spills. Some stones will only need sealingevery few years, and some more often, depending on the stone’s porosity and your daily useof the countertops. If the sealer is alreadydry, apply a bit more sealer and wipe it off. Once all excess sealer is removed, use a clean dry cloth for a final wipe down. These are all porous surfaces eventhough they look completely solid. Many household foods and cosmetics contain acids thatcan degrade a stone’s surface. Granite has been used for thousands of years in both interior and exterior applications. Granite is one of the hardest types of stones in the world making counters that are incredibly stain, scratch, and chip resistant which will last the lifetime of the home. Sealing your granite is one of the most important things you can do to maintain the beauty of your granite countertops. Some granites need to be sealed more often than others, especially the lighter ones. Liquids that do not evaporate, such as oils will cause stains if left to soak into the stone. It’s important to know that radon originating in the soil beneathhomes is a more common problem and a far larger public health risk than radonfrom granite building materials. In addition to radon, the other natural radioactive material in thegranite can emit radiation. It’s practically indestructible and pretty much maintenance free. Quartz is a very hard material and will last the lifetime of your home. Cleaning your quartz stone kitchen counter tops is quite easy. Though quartz and quartzite are both hard, quartz is a much easier natural stone to work with. The beauty will last for generations and is versatile enough for use throughout the home. It can be applied on almost every surface, including vanities, shower walls, tub decks and flooring. In caves, drip water forms onyx as stalactites and stalagmites. Onyx should be sealed as often as a granite counter depending on how much use (1-3 years). Do not use abrasive cleaners that contain acids such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners, ortile cleaners. To determine if your countertop needs resealing, perform a “watertest”. Pour a small amount of sealer, about the size of the bottom of a pop can, onto the countertop anddistribute evenly with a dry cloth. Allow the sealer to penetrate the stone for at least 15-30 minutes. Take another dry cloth and wipe the excess sealer off while it is still wet. When acid comes into contact with a stone surface, a chemicalreaction takes place that may cause etching. Do not leave these items resting onyour countertops for any length of time. Sealer is used to help prevent etching but even it can break down after heavy use. If within 15-20 minutes the water begins to absorb into the stone, it is time toreseal. Depending on the nature of the stain, occasionally more than oneapplication is required.

When Red Wine Meets White Marble by nytimes.com

Fantastik on the butcher block; scrub with lemon juice and salt. But problems multiply in the kitchen, where spills meet the ambition not just to clean but to really sanitize. I was cutting up fruit salad on a cutting board, and the juice leaked onto the counter,” she said. Those porous surfaces can be sealed, but even the sealant isn’t infallible and has to be repeated. Stainless steel gives kitchens a professional look but shows fingerprints and gets scratches. We are continually improving the quality of our text archives. Workers remove a handful of the beads at a time and run them through a dishwasher. In fact, frequent dusting and polishing with a soft cloth will usually be all the cleaning most pieces need. Despite wiping up dribbled wine, she recently had the counters sanded and resealed for the third time in a year. But anyone with a stainless steel countertop will tell you that it shows fingerprints and water spots and is easily scratched. He gave one commercial client xylene, a cleaner that he said would not damage the finish on a new self-leveling epoxy floor he created.

How To Protect A Granite Countertop: 7 Steps With Pictures by wikihow.com

While it is remarkably durable, granite is still susceptible to damage of various sorts if not properly protected. Because of the granite’s weight, your lower cabinets need to be of sturdy construction and affixed properly to the wall. A licensed contractor can make the assessment of your cabinets’ strength if you are unsure. The next important step in preventing discoloration is to clean up spills. Containers such as olive oil bottles are often hard to keep completely dry, acetone from fingernail polish remover can remove your sealant, cosmetics and beauty aids may contain chemical residues on the outside that will react with your counter over time. Lemon juice can permanently damage stone that contains calcite. Water and mineral oil will evaporate, lemon juice tests for etching (calcite reaction to acid) which can permanently damage the stone. Dark stains from the water or mineral oil indicate that your stone is absorbent and a sealer may help to protect your stone from stains. In general, maintaining a granite counter is wiping it down with a damp absorbent cloth or sponge then weekly cleaning with a mild detergent. To create this article, 10 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. Learning how to protect a granite countertop will allow you to keep it looking beautiful for years. The first step in protecting your granite countertop is making sure the installation is safe and secure. Otherwise, the cabinets may partially collapse, leaving the granite to crack as it falls. This is especially true for liquids with a deep color like red wine on a lighter granite. To test if your granite requires a sealant you will need water, lemon, and baby oil and a sample of your stone. Only use this test on a sample of stone you do not care about. My granite counter tops were sealed when installed 3 years ago. Apply a drop each of lemon juice, water, and mineral oil and allow it to sit for 10 minutes then wipe away. If your sample of stone foams when the lemon juice is applied or the surface appears dull and pitted, this indicates that your stone has calcite and is susceptible to acids. It will be damaged by coffee, soda, orange juice, and other acidic products. If you find that your granite does indeed require a sealer, be careful to use only the cleaning products on it that the sealant manufacturer recommends.

Haze and Water Stains After Sealing Granite Countertops by countertopspecialty.com

If a sealer is applied when not needed, it just sits on top without absorbing and leaves a hazy, streaky or blotchy granite sealer residue. The most important step when sealing granite countertops (or any stone installation) is to completely remove all excess sealer and residue from the granite countertop surface. Thus, removing granite sealer residue that has dried or cured on the surface can be tricky and troublesome. When it does occur it is usually so subtle that you don’t really notice it. White springs granite will almost certainly need a sealer or you’ll be battling stains a lot. Sealed it last year and this year prior to learning that dark granite shouldn’t be sealed (thanks to the info on this page). If water does not darken the surface, then it is not absorbing and does not need sealing. You need to test it to be sure, but typically does not need it. Applying more sealer, scrubbing, and then wiping off all excess and drying can sometimes remove the haze, but only if done within a day or two of the original application. Usually, black galaxy granite will not need to be sealed since it is naturally stain-resistant and a sealer will not clean or remove anything. Tough to know without seeing it or knowing the exact history. The granite itself has been ground or sanded smooth to a shiny finish. The granite in my present kitchen has a haze on it right at the apron of the kitchen sink. Stripping and polishing will remove this, but as soon as any water dries on the granite it will leave behind hazy mineral deposits. If a sealer is applied on a granite countertop (or any type of natural stone) where the stone is too dense and already naturally stain-resistant, then all that will happen is the sealer will dry on the surface leaving a dull, blotchy, or streaky haze like you describe. You’ll likely have to use powerful solvent like methylene chloride to strip it off. Many granite colors need a sealer applied, however, very few granite countertops will need annual resealing. The sealer remains on the surface rather than absorbing into the stone and forms a film that can etch creating the rings and dull spots. To solve this issue you’ll need to strip the sealer off the surface using methylene chloride, which is a powerful and noxious solvent. I am sooo upset and dont know how to fix this – can you guide me? Of course, if this particular sealer does commonly need re-application every year, then it’s a very poor sealer. Many can go 5 years and some even ten years depending on the sealer. What occurred with your granite countertop is that it was already sealed, so it did not readily absorb liquids. Of course, it is possible that your granite did need re-sealing, absorbed enough to re-seal, but mistakenly you let the sealer dry on the surface. Once the sealer is stripped off the surface your water marks should be gone and the surface back to normal. The black granite in the bathroon (which was done 24 hours ago) looks fine. In fact, most black granite cannot be sealed since the sealer will not absorb. Now, if the sealer is wiped off completely prior to drying like it should be, then you may not develop any problem. If applied and left to dry , it is possible that some sealer absorbed in some spots and in other areas it didn’t. You may have luck re-applying the sealer to try and get it to re-absorb the dried sealer then remove all excess and dry completely. The ring the glass make is not clearly round it’s more like when the light hits it it’s a dull round spot like when you put your fingers on black honed granite. It is physical damage to the marble, so it must be refinished. Just purchased a home 3 years old and the black granite counters in kitchen (especially sink area) are dull and hazy. Have just pulled out nasty caulking and wondering what steps to take to make this granite pop. Many granite colors are naturally dense, non-absorbent and cannot (should not) be sealed. Luckily, it is easy to determine if and/or when your granite countertop (or any natural stone) needs sealing by simply performing the simple test for sealing granite. If the granite countertops did need sealing but the sealer was (incorrectly) left to dry on the surface, you’ll get the streaky-hazy residue. Unfortunately, many installers do not know this and will tell homeowners to apply a granite sealer and just leave it to ‘soak it’. When testing tells you the stone does not need or even cannot be sealed, then don’t do it! You may get lucky scrubbing with steel wool, but will probably need to use solvents to strip it. You’d only notice if comparing an unsealed piece of the exact same slab to a sealed section. What you should do is have the fabricator give you a left over piece of your slab. But testing with water is the proper way to do it and then proceed (apply a sealer if needed) based on the water test results. Water typically beads up for some time after the sealer was applied, but may not continue to do so forever. The company came back and applied more sealant but this did not work. The haze is probably from the sealer they put on the first time. You’ll likely need to use a potent solvent like methylene chloride to strip off the hazy film. Just had new granite counter tops installed and got the “haze”. I was told by the installer it needs to be sealed but sealing didn’t take the film away. Scrubbing with acetone and 0000-grade steel wool may remove it. It’s almost certainly due to mineral deposits from hard water. Hard water can be difficult to remove with standard cleaners. You’d get this build-up no matter what type of countertop material is installed. Imagine a kid covered his hands with toothpaste and rubbed it all over the counter. It’s a combination of streaks and now water stains or spots and glass rings too. This can also happen on a granite countertop that should be sealed, but the excess sealer was not removed properly and again it dried on the surface. Unfortunately, removing the hazy cured sealer residue can be difficult. Despite what you may read that sealing granite countertops must be done on all granite every year, it’s not true. Frequency for applying a granite sealer depends on many variables, but most surfaces will go 3-5 years before needing more sealer. The “water stains” and glass rings are not actually from water and they are not stains. Putting a sealer on a non-absorbent black granite countertop is trouble. In any case, you’ll need to remove whatever is on the surface using solvents. The glass rings are from acidic substances etching the sealer residue left on the countertop surface (and not the granite itself). I sprayed the sealer, waited for it to dry, then sprayed again waited and wiped excess off. The countertops looked like someone had sneezed andit dried! Not surprising since many sales people and others working in the stone industry have limited knowledge. The point is that granite is a natural product with wide variations in porosity, so there is no set rule for applying granite sealers or frequency for re-sealing. The only way to determine when/if to apply or re-apply a granite sealer is to perform the water test for sealing granite countertops. The granite sealer is a liquid, so it did not absorb, dried on the surface and left the hazy sneeze pattern, which sealers will do when not properly applied. I don’t know if the bottle instructions stated, but you should always wipe up all excess before it dries. Granite doesn’t etch easy, but dried sealer on granite countertops will often etch. It’s not likely the sealer absorbed much if at all into black granite, but wiping down until dry at least avoids creating a haze problem. For future reference not all granite or stone must be sealed. All you need to do to determine if any stone needs sealing is to water test for sealing granite countertops the surface in several places. Solvents won’t harm granite, but this is your best shot to remove the sealer haze. Every time she has a party she would have rings on here counter top. We have honed it agai n and put sealer back on it but it still gets rings and we are afraid to take the sealer off cause it could stain. Such drinks are often served at parties and the acids in the drinks corrode and etch the marble leaving the dull rings. Since it’s a honed surface you can sand them out or just re-hone it every so often. Usually this is a nasty job using the solvent methylene chloride. Because it is so dense with tiny pores and does not absorb anything, it is essentially stain-proof.

Choosing A Countertop Material by stonesource.com

Some people prefer a surface that will remain relatively unchanged over time, while others enjoy the inherent imperfections that come along with many natural materials. In this guide, we’ll help you determine what to expect with various countertop materials, so you can make the choice that works best for your project. They purchase new, modern furniture and appliances and install a 10’ island in their kitchen. The couple, who wanted a pristine countertop for their pristine home, becomes disappointed with their selection and is frustrated to learn about the maintenance required to restore it. It will etch when exposed to acidic foods such as lemons or tomatoes. Therefore, dark marble is not ideal for kitchen countertops. Basalt will stain when exposed to oil and highly-pigmented liquids. Some granites are resin-treated to enhance the color and fortify the surface of the stone. It will stain when exposed to oil and highly-pigmented liquids. All schists have a low abrasion resistance rating and are likely to scratch. To reduce the appearance of etching in kitchen countertop applications, choose a honed, white marble with a low-moderate absorption rating. If acid etching is an issue, choose a material with a minimal acid sensitivity rating. The quality of the repair is dependent upon the factory of origin, the fabricator of the stone and the installer. To reduce the appearance of staining in kitchen countertop applications, always wipe up spills immediately. Do not use resin-filled material outside, as the resin will discolor over time. Always use a grout that is similar in color to the stone to avoid a picture-frame effect. It can be used outside for countertops and requires minimal maintenance beyond cleaning the surface. Or, as we like to say, they appreciate that natural materials are perfectly imperfect. Marinara sauce (an acidic food) wears away and dulls the finish. To this couple, the white marble doesn’t look worn or imperfect. Just as we saw in the first example, wine spills and stains the counter, lemonade splashes on the surface and etches it, and platters drag across the surface and scratch it. When a person expects their kitchen countertop material to look relatively the same over time and wants a material that will require less maintenance, they are generally happy choosing an alternative to white marble. The “best” material for kitchen countertop applications is completely dependent upon the preferences of the owner. Whether white marble or alternatives to white marble are preferred, it’s important to know that all natural materials must be sealed prior to use and must be maintained over time. However, removing wine stains from marble is relatively easy to accomplish. This etching is less apparent on white marble and more apparent on dark marble. To reduce the appearance of staining, always wipe up spills immediately. For marble with a lower abrasion resistance rating, expect the material to patina. Oil and highly-pigmented liquids can penetrate and stain the stone and may need poultice to remove the stain. Choose cement-filled or unfilled materials as an alternat ive. It’s engineered to look like marble, concrete, metal and solid surfaces. Each of these popular countertop materials is stocked in one or more of our warehouses.

How To Remove Every Type Of Countertop Stain by purewow.com

Your countertops aren’t only an investment purchase; they’re the pièce de résistance of your kitchen. We checked in with pros across the industry to bring you the very best tricks for successful countertop stain removal. So it’s important to seal your countertops to make them more stain-resistant. The only real fix is preventative measures (using trivets and extreme care). So keeping them looking their best (read: free of unsightly stains) is pretty darn important. Laminate’s biggest risk for damage comes from hot objects, which “stain” by burning the surface.

Avoiding Stains On Granite Countertops by marblecityca.com

Since granite is a solid natural element it’s very difficult to stain it, but it is still possible with prolonged exposure to certain substances. Reputable granite countertop manufacturers include sealing in their services, and sell granite countertops that are pre-sealed. The easiest way to clean a granite countertop is to use a neutral cleaner or a mild soap and water solution. A soft cleaning sponge dipped in mild soap and water can be used to gently scrub a granite countertop, then it should be rinsed with water and dried with a soft cloth. Lemon juice, vinegar and strong wine can leave unwanted color stains on a granite countertop, especially light colored countertops. Fresh meat should also be kept away from a granite countertop, because it can leave blood stains or an unpleasant odor that will stick in your countertop. This will help absorb some of the water and blood that seeps out of the meat, so as long as the countertop is wiped down afterward it should be safe. Cooking oil seeps between tiny pores in the granite surface and stains it from the inside out. Granite countertops are very durable and do resist most stains, but every surface has its natural enemies. Having kitchen countertops sealed at least once a year is the best way to avoid stains, which is one reason why this material is a bit more high-maintenance than other counter materials. Granite is made from magma that has flowed from hot temperatures to cooler ones, where it forms a crystalline rock of feldspar and quartz. Sealing granite countertops is important because its pores can open and absorb stains faster otherwise. Kitchen countertops should be cleaned after each use, especially if fresh meat, fish and produce has been prepared on it. Strong detergents and abrasive sponges or scrubs can scratch a granite surface, so these should be avoided. There are some substances that should always be kept away from granite slabs, such as acidic liquids from natural citrus fruits. If a recipe calls for use of these acidic liquids during food preparation, just remember to wipe down the granite countertop quickly with mild soap and water. This can happen even if it has been properly sealed, so home cooks should place a protective material like tin foil, plastic or parchment paper under the meat. Spilling oil can also damage a granite countertop; in fact, oil is the one liquid that stains granite countertops the most. This can be prevented by having granite countertops sealed on a regular basis, and by careful food preparation. Avoiding abrasive cleaners, fresh meats, acidic liquids and oils should help avoid most granite stains. The extra work is well worth the beauty it achieves, though.

How To Remove Stains From Granite Countertops » How To Clean Stuff.Net by howtocleanstuff.net

Here are guidelines for determining the problem and the necessary steps to resolve it. Use these guidelines to determine whether the spots you are seeing are in fact stains or if they are areas of damaged stone. Not caused by the stone absorbing an agent, but rather caused by damage to the surface. Some examples of things that might cause these stains are toilet bowl cleaner or spilled white vinegar. It needs to be determined if the damage is to the stone or to the protective coating/sealant. Begin by mixing the poultice (ex: talc powder and hydrogen peroxide). Apply the mix to the stained area, keeping it only on the stain. Remove the tape and plastic wrap only, leaving the poultice in place. This can take anywhere from a couple of hours to a couple of days. If the stain remains, you may need to repeat steps 2-6 several times, especially for oily stains, each time removing more of the stain. The granite may darken or lighten in color when the water is absorbed into the stone. To prevent this absorption from happening in the first place, it is necessary to seal the surface of the granite with a high quality sealer. If hardwater stains occur, they can be removed by applying vinegar to the area using the same methods as above. You can also consult the location where you purchased your stone for advice and service options. If you have dark stains that are only around the faucet, these are usually caused by the oils in the plumber’s putty used to seal the faucet. You can try only removing the finish, however it is likely that the bleach has penetrated into the stone. It can be done, just be gently so you only remove as much stone as needed to remove the stain and no more. If the stains were scuffs, an eraser would work to remove them. However, since you described the stains as four circles, that sounds like oil stains. It appears shaving cream drips were left unattended for more than we week and now left dark spots. Dying granite is very tricky because the stone is made up of a variety of minerals, each of which would absorb the dye differently. However, a sealant will not prevent future damage, such as etching. I find it hard to believe that everyone is able to afford granite countertops, yet do not have the capacity/willingness to read the article above. The water coming from the outside of the glass caused the ink to bleed into the granite. We removed the faucet and have left it to dry for 5 days now and the stain is no different in color than when we started the drying process. We have a partially granite kitchen table; a glass of gin and tonic with lots of ice was put on it and now we have four ring marks and cannot remove the marks. What kind of poultice would be best to try to remove the stain? If that is the case, your best option is to darken the spot, rather than try to turn the entire counter back to the lighter shade. Granite is non-reactive and the soap is too mild to etch the sealer. Give it time and it will dry out and the stain will disappear. Would appreciate getting confirmation to use a cream of tartar and hydrogen peroxide poultice. Next, you need to determine what caused the stain so that you can apply the correct materials to remove it. If you are unsure, consult a professional before proceeding. Corrosion, typically caused by ac ids, leaving “rings” or “water spots” that cannot be removed. You cannot remove a “stain” that is actually damage as it requires repairing/removing the damaged area. The layer of paste should be about one fourth of an inch thick and overlap the stain about a half an inch. Allow this to remain on the stain until it is completely dry. When the paste is completely dry, use a plastic scraper to scrape away the paste. However, once the water evaporates, the color of the stone should return to normal. Did you get yours out, and if so, how did you do it? To remedy that, the area will need to be sanded down to below the stain. Art gum erasers work best, but any eraser can work – just don’t use a pink eraser as it may leave pink stains. There are other spotty areas which are mystery marks, but my guesses would be toothpaste, eye drops, as well as the identified shaving cream. Also, there is no guarantee that the dye would cover up the marks/stains. The sealer that you need depends on the particular piece of granite; some stones shouldn’t be sealed at all. Vague references to hydrogen peroxide and talk about methylene paint thinner isn’t much to go on. If you are that stupid/lazy, how did you afford the granite in the first place? How long do you have to let something sit and fester for that to happen? Over the weekend, we had many people in and out of the house and at some point, someone placed an empty glass on the art work. Worst part is no one noticed it for a day or so…the ink was blue and the granite is almost white! Would the hydrogen peroxide and talc be the best solution to try? I had granite counter tops installed about a month ago and we have noticed a water stain building up around the ring where the faucet is installed. I applied a poultice of talcum powder and acetone, covered it, and let it sit overnight. I was very nervous about applying the acetone onto the granite but it didn’t damage it at all! My guess is what you got is a water stain where water gets under the sealer and darkens the color.

Marble and Granite Stain Remover by countertopguides.com

If the mark is darker than the stone, it is a stain; however, if it is lighter than the stone, it is an etch. Allow to dry for a couple hours, or dry with a hair dryer for 15 minutes or so. Note that this product is only a stain remover will not fix an etch. For proper usage, make sure to remove any surface debris or residue before starting. Pictures make it much easier to see stains and how they change than it is to see in person. Place plastic wrap over the stain and press down lightly to retard drying time. If the stain is partially removed, repeat the process until gone.

Remove Etches Watermarks and Oil Stains From Marble Travertine and Limestone. Remove Oil Stains and by mystonecare.com

Whether it’s holes in your travertine, oil stains on your granite, or marble etches, we have what you need to fix it. Great for deep cleaning granite and marble counter tops, glass shower doors, and shower tiles. Provides a very high gloss, enhances color, and helps protect against etching and water spots. This product is ideal for removing oil and grease stains from kitchen countertops, and removing other colored, organic stains from all natural stones. In addition, the cooling vent plates can be removed for cleaning. If you can mix water in a cup, you can put an end to aggravating travertine fill problems!

How To Remove Stains From Granite Countertops by finishing.com

I just wiped it off with a wet towel, and it’s gone! For most granite stains apply 50% bleach to 50% water in a poultice powder. One area did require two applications, but really cannot say [enough about] how good this was. I was transporting hot grease from a metal container to a plastic container. I did clean it up immediately but the next day two stains appeared. If you could help me with this dilemma it would greatly be appreciated. Is there a final solution to getting the oil stains out? Still, there are light & dark granites; porous & polished granites; unsealed, factory-sealed, & site-sealed granites; and there are stains of a 1001 varieties. The pot was stainless steel and had oil stains on the bottom. We have now experienced the same stain and am wondering what to do? We had granite installed last week and it is already stained. Just about everything stains it, even if you try like mad to keep it spotless. They came well recommended and were not even close to the cheapest bid. Attempting to see if she has had difficulty finding resolution through said company? One thing to always remember is that every granite is different based on country, color, grade, & pattern. The entire end area where my son eats is a darker, dull color now, and same situation around the cooktop. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to sit overnight or longer. I will continue to apply the baby powder over the next couple days. For oil and other stains try placing a hot wet terry cloth towel on the stain with a iron on full steam right on top, then try the common poultice, the steam will help breakdown the residue and the poultice will draw out the stain. It has been a huge nightmare, trying poultice after poultice. This inadvertently soaked the granite from underneath and a dark stain spread to the top and lip of the countertop overhanging the sink. My husband dropped and broke a bottle of olive oil on our granite counter while cooking. People have told us what worked for them, and others have responded that they worked in some cases but not in others. The hot pot, which was only on the granite for a few seconds, left a white mark. There does not seem to be an answer to this type of stain request. In our kitchen, there are some patched created on the black granite because of hot pots put on it. Can anyone suggest some quick solution to get rid of the white patches? Does anyone know how to remove embedded coffee stains on granite? Can anyone tell me how to get coffee stains out of a new, light-colored granite counter? Precautions must be taken with chlorine as it has powerful bleaching effects and it must not come in contact with any acids. The granite shop isn’t returning my phone calls after we had words over the quality of the seam and polishing. I do know for sure, do not get discouraged about some stains. Our table in the kitchen, connected to island is the same brushed granite. Alas, the black granite power kitchens of the late 80’s, early 90’s got us to love granite but not the black color. I think the new granites must be lower grade and not properly sealed to have all the problems described here.

How To Remove Stains by dallasmarblestone.com

Stubborn stains might need a poultice to draw out the stain. Sealer makes the surface of granite, limestone, and marble more stain resistant. Soapstone doesn’t need sealing; applying a mineral oil darkens the stone but doesn’t protect it from stains. Heat, cuts and scratches didn’t harm granite in our tests and polished and matt finishes resisted most stains when properly sealed. We can’t wait till next time to get our bathroom customized by them. Then clean the spot with a solution of water mixed with a clear dish detergent, and rinse several times. The more people in a kitchen, the more opportunity for spills. It’s best to deal with stains immediately, but what if you don’t notice that wine spill until the next day? Always try cleaning solutions on an inconspicuous spot first and check for damage. Never use products that contain lemon, vinegar, or other acids because they can etch or mar the surface. A poultice is a liquid cleaner or chemical mixed with a white absorbent material to form a thick paste that is spread over the stained area, covered with plastic, and left to work for 24 to 48 hours. Put a few drops of water on stone and let it stand for 15 minutes.

How To Remove Stains From Granite Countertops by granitecarepro.com

You have proven methods of removing stains from granite and other natural stones, many times with great results. Included are instructions for stain removal from granite, marble, limestone, and other natural stones. Wear gloves and keep in mind that the acetone evaporates rapidly. Clean stains with hair-bleaching strength hydrogen peroxide (12%) and a few drops of ammonia. Do not use bleach or hydrogen peroxide on darker stones for fear of bleaching out color. You can remove small paint stains with lacquer thinner or scrape off with a razor knife. These strippers may contain lye or caustic soda and can “etch” your stone surface. Often water stains are rings appearing “in the granite sealer” (especially on black granite). Repeat this several times but do it quickly, as the alcohol evaporates fast. It really depends on the hardness of the stone for steel wool to have any effect. Clean the area with mild soap and water, rinsing several times. Use a putty knife or wood shim to spread the poultice evenly. During drying, the stain is drawn out of the stone and into the poultice material. Rinse the area with distilled water and buff dry with a soft cloth. I have seen some really tough stains take up to 5 applications of a poultice. If you have cleaned your granite tops with dish soap repeatedly, you probably have a soap film build up. Here’s a granite stain removal guide with proven directions to restore your granite countertops to their original beauty. Dawn brand dishwashing soap, washing and drying the area repeatedly. Acetone may require multiple cleanings depending on how deep the oil has penetrated. On darker stones, try a solvent like lacquer thinner or acetone. Simply spray it on and rub in circles with a clean cloth, changing the area of the cloth you are using frequently. A poultice consists of a cleaning agent combined with a stain absorbing agent. The paste is applied to the granite stain and allowed to dry for 24 – 48 hours. You can also try using gauze pads, white paper towels or white cotton balls. Rust stains are probably the most difficult stains to remove. If using paper, soak it in the liquid cleaning agent and let drain. Apply the poultice to the stained area about ½ inch thick, extending the poultice material beyond the stained area by approximately one inch. After about 24 hours, remove the plastic and allow the poultice to dry for another 24 hours. Lift the poultice from the stain using a wood or plastic scraper if necessary.

Granite Stain Removal Guide by granite-countertop-info.com

To prevent a granite stain from becoming an issue in the first place, simple granite care and maintenance is required. Small amounts can be removed with lacquer thinner or scraped off carefully with a razor blade. Repeat this several times and go quick because the alcohol evaporates fast. Deeper scratches and nicks should be repaired and re-polished by a professional. A poultice is a liquid cleaner or chemical mixed with a white absorbent material to form a paste about the consistency of peanut butter. Do not use whiting or iron-type clays such as fuller’s earth with acid chemicals. A poultice can also be prepared using white cotton balls, white paper towels or gauze pads. Care of granite countertops is simple and not time consuming. Clean with 12% hydrogen peroxide (hair bleaching strength) and a few drops of ammonia. Copper and bronze stains appear as green or muddy-brown and result from the action of moisture on nearby emb edded bronze, copper, or brass items. Oil based paints, linseed oil, putty, caulks and sealants may cause oily stains. Often water stains are rings of granite sealer (especially on black granite). The poultice is spread over the stained area to a thickness of about ½” with a wood or plastic spatula, covered with plastic, and left to work for 24 to 48 hours. Poultice procedures may need to be repeated to completely remove a stain. If using powder, mix the cleaning agent or chemical to a thick paste the consistency of peanut butter. Apply the poultice to the stained area about ¼ to ½ inch thick and extend the poultice beyond the stained area by about one inch. Use the wood or plastic scraper if necessary to lift the poultice off the stain. Chances are granite stains will never be a problem and your tops will look great year after year.

How To Remove Stains From Granite Counterops by archcitygranite.com

But if you don’t notice, if the foreign substance remains on the granite for more than 20 or 30 minutes, you’re likely to wind up with a stain. Lucky for you, the experts have advice to help people like you remove all types of stains from their granite countertops. Always use a coaster for your glasses and cups, wipe up any spills immediately and make sure to seal your countertops on a regular basis. Stains happen, and when they happen on your granite countertops it’s important to take the necessary steps to remove them as soon as possible. If you’re lucky enough to notice, you can quickly wipe up the spill and prevent a stain. The hydrogen peroxide will work its way into your countertops and remove the stain. The compound will work its way into your countertops and remove the substance that is causing the stain. Scrub the countertop surface gently, and the water rings and stains will disappear before your eyes. If you find that the stains don’t come out with your initial efforts to remove them, don’t panic. They have experience dealing with granite countertops that can help you if you need to replace areas that have been permanently damaged.

How To Get An Olive Oil Stain Off Of My Granite Countertop by quora.com

Regular cleaning or scrubbing won’t work as stains are from substances that have absorbed into the granite. A poultice is a paste that functions to draw out the stain from the granite or stone. The ingredients will vary depending on what (oil, ink, rust, etc.) stained the granite. For an oil stain… acetone or mineral spirits is the key ingredient. Apply the poultice paste to the stain so it overlaps the stain by 1/2 inch. It’s during this period that the stain is being drawn out of the granite. Depending on the severity of the stain you may have to repeat this process 2–3–4 times. A poultice is needed to remove any stain in natural stone. The trick is knowing what ingredients go in the poultice. There is no single poultice recipe that will work for all stains. Cover the poultice with plastic wrap and tape down the edges. During this time the acetone is absorbing into the g ranite and interacting / binding with the oil. This could take 24–48 hours, but just leave it be until completely dry. When poultice is completely dry, carefully remove it and inspect the stain. If at some point it appears the stain has not lightened or improved, then that is likely the best result you’ll get. For specific info on how to remove all types of stains check out this granite & marble stain removal ebook. Is there a good alternative to granite countertops to save money? How do you get car oil stains off of concrete after an oil change? What is the best way to repair a chip in a granite countertop?

Natural Stone Institute by naturalstoneinstitute.org

Flush the area with plain water and mild soap and rinse several times. Outdoors, with the sources removed, normal sun and rain action will generally bleach out the stains. Paint strippers can etch the surface of the stone; re-polishing may be necessary. Protect yourself with rubber gloves and eye protection, and work in a well-ventilated area. Rub the powder onto the stone with a damp cloth or by using a buffing pad with a low-speed power drill. Contact your stone dealer or call a professional stone restorer for refinishing or re-polishing etched areas that you cannot remove. It is caused by water carrying mineral salts from below the surface of the stone rising through the stone and evaporating. Do not use water to remove the powder; it will only temporarily disappear. The liquid cleaner or chemical will draw out the stain into the absorbent material. Do not use whiting or iron-type clays such as fuller’s earth with acid chemicals. A poultice can also be prepared using white cotton balls, whitepaper towels or gauze pads. Use a wood or plastic scraper to spread the poultice evenly. Allow the poultice to dry thoroughly, usually about 24 to 48 hours. After about 24 hours, remove the plastic and allow the poultice to dry. Repeat the poultice application if the stain is not removed. If the surface is etched by the chemical, apply polishing powder and buff with burlap or felt buffing pad to restore the surface. If the stain remains, refer to the section in this brochure on stain removal. Deep-seated or stubborn stains may require using a poultice or calling in a professional. Indoors, clean with12% hydrogen peroxide (hair bleaching strength) and a few drops of ammonia. Copper and bronze stains appear as green or muddy-brown and result from the action of moisture on nearby or embedded bronze, copper or brass items. Use only wood or plastic scrapers for removing the sludge and curdled paint. Oil-based paints, linseed oil, putty, caulks and sealants may cause oily stains. Continue buffing until the etch mark disappears and the marble surface shines. You may have to do this several times as the stone dries out. If the problem persists, contact your installer to help identify and remove the cause of the moisture. Deeper scratches and nicks in the surface of the stone should be repaired and re-polished by a professional. The poultice is spread over the stained area to a thickness of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch with a wood or plastic spatula, covered with plastic and left to work for 24 to 48 hours. Poultice procedures may have to be repeated to thoroughly remove a stain, but some stains may never be completely removed. Approximately one pound of prepared poultice material will cover one square foot. If using powder, mix the cleaning agent or chemical to a thick paste the consistency of peanut butter. ] Apply the poultice to the stained area about1/4 to 1/2 inch thick and extend the poultice beyond the stained area by about one inch. Cover the poultice with plastic and tape the edges to seal it. The drying process is what pulls the stain out of the stone and into the poultice material.

Stain Removal Techniques For Natural Stone by stonecareonline.org

If patches remain untreated after drying, repeat the treatment as necessary. Remove the dirty liquid and rinse the area again with clean water. Once completely dry brush off the hardened poultice or lightly scrape off using a plastic paint scraper or spatula. The moisture may cause it to appear darker, but once dry it will return to previous appearance. Remove the dirty liquid and rinse the area thoroughly with clean water.