The Ultimate Guide to Getting Rid of Stains on Your Granite Countertops

Hello Readers,

Here’s a question, we are often asked by our customers, “I’ve got dish soap rings on my granite countertop. Is it possible to remove that?”

Here, in today’s article, we take a look at the different types of stains on your granite kitchen countertops and ways to deal with them.

Granite is one of the most often used materials for kitchen and bathroom counters. Though granite is highly durable, there are plenty of occasions where it gets stained – dish soap rings, body soap residue, food spills and more.

When your granite counter gets stained, you have to pull out the stain completely from the porous surface. Here, we give you some of the best methods to remove stains from your granite counters.

Method #1: Using Neutral pH Cleaning Solutions

Remember that acidic cleaners are a big No when it comes to granite counters. The acids in these cleaners damage the surface of the stone and can dull and etch the surface of the stone. So, always make sure that you use pH neutral cleaning solutions.

Things Needed:

• Water
• Soft cloth-like microfiber kitchen towel
• Soft bristled brush. Avoid harsh metallic brushes
• Washing Soda
• Non-alkali regular household cleaner

Steps:

• Mix water with a small amount of washing soda or non-alkali cleaner to make a paste. Non-alkali (pH neutral) cleaners don’t damage the surface of the stone.
• Scrub the mixture on to the stain. Use a soft-bristled brush to work the mixture onto the grooves of the stone.
• Rinse with warm water.
• Wipe with a soft cloth and let the surface of the stone dry completely.

Method #2: Removing Stains with Rubbing Alcohol

Things Needed:

• Soft cloth
• Rubbing alcohol

Steps:

• Moisten a clean, soft cloth like a micro-fiber cloth with rubbing alcohol.
• Rub the wet portion of the cloth on the stain in small clockwise motions.
• Add more alcohol if needed. Work on the entire surface of the stain.
• Once the stain is removed, wipe the surface with a clean, dry cloth.

Method #3: Using Ammonia to Remove Stains

Ammonia is an effective cleaner and can cut through tough and stubborn stains. With that said, ammonia is a base and doesn’t have neutral pH. It can dull the surface of the stone with regular use. Make sure that you use only colourless ammonia. Using coloured ammonia can cause discolouration to the stone.

Things Needed:

• Water
• Clean, soft cloths
• Soft bristled brush
• Regular, household ammonia

Steps:

• Mix ½ cup clear ammonia with one gallon of water.
• Moisten a clean cloth in this mixture, and wipe vigorously on tough stains.
• You can rub over the stains with a soft bristled brush.
• Rinse the spot with clean water and wipe dry with a clean cloth.

Method #4: Apply a Baking Soda Poultice

A poultice is nothing but an absorbent material that has the ability to draw stains. It can soak up stains when left on top of the surface. Baking soda is one of the best ingredients to make a poultice. It’s pH neutral and is easily available.

Things Needed:

• Baking Soda
• Acetone (optional)
• Plastic wrap
• Old toothbrush
• Water

Steps:

• Make a mixture of baking soda, acetone, and water. If the stain contains oil, then acetone can help in cutting through it.
• Apply this paste with an old toothbrush on to the stain.
• Cover the area with plastic wrap.
• Leave it undisturbed for 24 hours or until the mixture dries.
• Wipe the area with a moist cloth.
• You may have to repeat the process until the stain is removed completely.

Further Tips to Remove Stains from Granite Counters

• If your granite countertop is unsealed, you can opt to seal it. By sealing the surface, you reduce the chances of stains and other liquids like dish soap from penetrating the surface of the stone.
• Make sure to clean your countertops regularly. If a spill occurs, wipe it immediately. Don’t leave it on the surface for long.
• When it comes to sealing, you can do it by yourself or hire professionals to get the job done.
• Additionally, you can also use commercially available granite polishes to add shine and luster to the stone.

Wrapping it up

To know more about caring for your granite counters, get in touch with our experts here at Décor Luxury Stones. And, don’t forget, we offer a wide range of granite counters in a broad array of colours, textures, and finishes.
Check our product gallery and get in touch with us to choose the right products for you.