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Granite countertops are generally an ideal addition, portraying modern elegance, and are renowned for their natural beauty and durability. They easily uplift the appeal of any kitchen or bathroom space. It is heat and scratch resistant, meeting the needs of busy households.
Unfortunately, granite is porous, so it absorbs oils, wine, and other spills, which can result in stains and dullness over time. Proper or professional care is all that is required to keep granite surfaces in their best shape. From tough stains to routine deep cleaning, Lazy Susans Cleaning offers expert solutions for home cleaning, restoring, and protecting your countertops with the highest professional precision.
To help you with that, we’ll tell you how to remove stains from granite and what you need to know before you start.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Here’s a list of basic tools and materials required to remove stains from granite, including eco-friendly options.
Cleaning Tools:
- Microfiber cloths for daily, gentle, non-abrasive wiping.
- Soft sponges are ideal for scrubbing and scratching.
- Use a spray bottle to apply homemade or store-bought cleaners.
- A plastic or wooden scraper to carefully lift away dried spills without damaging the granite.
Cleaning Materials
- Baking soda is a mild, natural, and key ingredient in poultices.
- Hydrogen peroxide is efficient in removing organic stains.
- Acetone is effective on oily and ink stains, but should be used cautiously and with ventilation.
- Plastic wrap and tape to seal puoltices and help them work overnight.
Understanding Granite
Granite is valued for its beauty and durability among natural stones. The unique and attractive feature of granite is that it absorbs liquid stains. Granite can be easily damaged by using inappropriate cleaning products or methods.
It requires a proper understanding of how to remove stains from granite using pH-neutral, non-abrasive materials. This will maintain the stone finish, prevent stains, and prolong the durability of your granite countertop.
Considering such care, granite can be a beautiful and functional feature in your home for many years.
How to Remove Stains from Granite Countertops
Let’s tackle different types of stains on granite. These stains can seep into the stone, leaving greasy, dark spots that can resist all ordinary cleaning methods.
The good news? With the proper method for removing a stain from granite, it is possible to restore its natural beauty. Follow this step-by-step instructions:
How to Remove Oil-Based Stains
Oil-based stains caused by cooking oils, butter, or greasy food can seep into granite and become very difficult to remove if left unattended. You must be wondering how to clean granite stains. Here’s how:
The removal process begins with applying some grease-blotting paper towels, which absorb some of the excess oil without rubbing the stain. Make a paste of baking soda and water or, if the stain is tough, a little acetone.
Spread some of this paste on the stain, cover it with plastic, and let it sit for 24 hours. Afterwards, rinse with some warm water, and repeat if necessary. This method can absorb the oil without hurting its seal or surface.
How to Remove Organic Stains
Stains caused by organic matter, such as those from coffee, tea, wine, or fruits, leave dark spots or patches on granite countertops. If you have ever spilled coffee on your countertop and are wondering how to remove stains from granite? Read on.
Make a poultice with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, or a commercial granite stain remover. Apply the paste to the stain and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it sit for 24 to 48 hours. Remove the paste, rinse with warm water, and dry with a soft cloth. You may repeat the procedure if necessary. Always test on an inconspicuous area first to avoid damaging the granite’s finish.
How to Remove Water Stains
Water stains cause cloudy spots on granite surfaces. They are caused by mineral buildup in water. Clean it gently with a soft cloth using a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water. Rinse the surface thoroughly, and then dry it off using a microfiber cloth to prevent future spotting. Also, regularly drying the surface after each use will help in avoiding water stains.
How to Remove Wine Stains
A wine stain on granite is a problem if it is not treated correctly. For those asking how to remove wine stains without harming the surface, this gentle method is safe and effective.
It’s better to clean the spill right away by blotting it with a paper towel. Make sure not to rub, as this will only spread the stain. Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to treat the stain. Spread it over the stain and cover it with plastic wrap.
Let it sit for 24 to 48 hours. When dry, scrape off the residue, rinse the area with warm water, and dry it thoroughly. You may repeat the process as necessary.
How to Remove Rust, Ink, or Metal Stains
Granite can hold stains, especially rust, ink, or metal stains, deeply. Apply the solution over the area, cover it with plastic wrap, and leave it on for 24-48 hours. Once the paste dries, gently scrub it away. Rinse the site with warm water and dry it thoroughly. Acidic or abrasive cleaners should not be used, since they can damage the seal on granite. For home cleaning tips, consider contacting a professional cleaning service, such as Lazy Susans Cleaning, and learn about our cleaning pricing in NYC.
How to Remove Stubborn Stains
Stubborn stains that don't dissolve after regular cleaning, such as old grease stains from engines, stains from spilled liquids, or certain organic stains, may require more intensive cleaning. How do you remove stains from granite when they have already set in? Let’s find out.
The first step is to identify the type of stain, after which a specific poultice should be used (for example, baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, or acetone, depending on the stain). Once applied, cover the area with plastic wrap and leave it in place for at least 24 to 48 hours. It is then removed, rinsed, and dried.
What not to use to clean granite counters
Using the wrong products or developing bad habits is one of the worst things you can do for removing a stain from granite. That's why understanding how to remove stains from granite is crucial. Here are some things that should be avoided:
- Acidic cleaners should be avoided. Cleaners containing vinegar, lemon juice, or other acidic compounds can etch the surface and dull the finish.
- Harsh chemicals should be avoided, these include bleach, ammonia, and strong cleansers that can deteriorate the sealant and damage the stone.
- Abrasive tools, such as steel wool, scouring pads, and rough brushes, should be avoided as they can scratch and wear down your granite over time.
Pro Tips for Daily Granite Countertop Maintenance
Here are some simple daily and weekly routines about how to remove stains from granite and maintain clean, stain-free surfaces.
Daily Routines:
- Wipe down surfaces: Use a soft cloth with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
- Dry immediately: After cleaning, dry water spots on granite with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots from forming.
- Clean spills ASAP: Acidic ones like lemon juice, vinegar, or wine can stain or etch the granite if left too long.
Weekly Routine:
- Deep cleaning: Use a pH-balanced granite stain remover to gently wash away accumulated dirt.
- Inspect for stains: If needed, gently scrub stained areas with a baking soda paste (made by mixing baking soda with water), rinse, and dry.
Bonus: Many homeowners aren’t sure how to remove stains from granite, here comes the role of professional cleaning services.
Call Professional Granite Cleaning Service
DIY methods can do a good job with everyday messes, but they often fall short with deeply stained or neglected surfaces, particularly in high-traffic areas like kitchen countertops. Grease buildup, stubborn food stains, and hidden grime can persist no matter what you do, it's time to go professional.
Lazy Susans Cleaning specializes in home and kitchen deep cleaning services designed to tackle tough stains. Let our trained staff get your granite back into spotless condition so that you can enjoy a cleaner and healthier home, stress-free. Complete your booking here!
FAQs - How to get stain out of granite
Can stains come out of granite?
Removing a stain from granite with a poultice is often a good option, as it penetrates the pores of the granite and lifts the stain.
What is the best stain remover for granite?
Detergent mixed with detergent and poultice is the basic granite stain remover. They are pretty absorbent and easily available at home.
Can I use OxiClean on granite?
For hard or non-porous countertops like granite, follow the disinfection directions on OxiClean™ 3-in-1 Deep Clean Multi-Purpose Disinfectant to lift stains.
How do you remove stubborn stains from granite?
You can treat stubborn stains with a paste of baking soda and water. Simply apply it to the affected area and gently scrub it with a soft-bristled brush. Then, rinse with water and dry with a microfiber cloth.
Wrap Up!
Understanding how to remove stains from granite is crucial for keeping your space looking its best, and regular cleaning services play a vital role in maintaining that pristine look. This will promote health and comfort.
However, calling in the pros from Lazy Susans Cleaning for those heavy-duty jobs is the ultimate option. Our experts are ready to tackle the tough stuff while you relax! Just be consistent, stay clean, and let Lazy Susans take care of the rest!