The kitchen is one of the most used places in our home, where something happens almost every part of the day, either dishwashing or cooking. Granite countertops are one of the most used countertop materials for kitchens, as they offer numerous benefits while adding to the overall area’s value as well. These countertops, for their exceptional properties, can also last for years, but do you know what matters the most?
The new feeling and clean countertops. But how to achieve that with the stain marks? We can’t stop the usual hustle and bustle in the kitchen, and we cannot always be cautious while working. It is usual to spill something while working. But what’s most important is knowing how to handle it. So do you have any idea how to remove stains from granite slabs?
If not, then this blog is for you, as in this we will explain in detail the technique of removing stains from granite countertops to make them look like new and pristine for years.
Types of Stains
Before understanding the process of how to remove stains from granite countertops, let’s learn how many types of stains there are that can leave marks on your countertop:
Water sports
Water spots usually sit when the water is left on the surface for a certain period, such as the white cloudy spots you see on your car’s glass. If you are keen to learn how to remove water stains from granite then they are the easy spots that can be removed easily.
Oil-based stains
Oil-based stains can be found in places for cooking and can be recognized by a yellowish color stain mark specifically on a white countertop surface such as Viscon white. They are usually hard stains that require some brushing to deal with.
Food and drink stains
Food and drink stains can be defined by the leftover food marks that pile up on the countertop’s surface, while drink marks can be of the particular color that the drink is. So if you are thinking about how to remove stains from granite from food or drink, then they usually are moderately cleaned.
Ink stains
Ink stains can be from the things you put on the countertop, such as an oven or something else that might leave the color when it comes in contact with water. These marks can be moderately cleaned.
Rust stains
In the process of learning how to remove stains from granite countertops, the most stubborn type of stains are rust stains, left on the countertop due to metal rust and require thorough cleaning.
Methods of Stain Removal:
If you are thinking about how to remove water stains from granite countertops, then below are some cleaning methods that you can use to achieve the desired result on your natural stone material, which include:
Everyday cleaning
To maintain the new look and pristine beauty of your granite countertops, everyday cleaning is a must, which includes removing the spills with the use of mild detergent. Here’s how you can do it:
- In case you have spilled something or are done with your work or cooking, start with cleaning the surface using a dry cloth.
- Remove any debris or dust from the countertop material using a soft brush or dry cloth.
- If there are no such stains and it can be cleaned with that, you can just wipe it with a damp cloth, and regular cleaning will be done here, but in case of spills, let’s move further.
- Take a mild detergent or a specific cleaner and mix it with some warm water.
- Apply the mixture onto the spill and surface and scrub gently using a soft brush or cloth.
- Wipe the mixture with a damp cloth and then rinse the surface.
- Wipe the granite countertop with either a soft, dry cloth or a small wiper.
Recommendations:
While learning how to remove stains from granite countertops, keep in mind:
- Do not use any harsh cleaner.
- Do not leave the water on the surface, and dry it properly.
- Do not scrub the countertop’s surface as it might leave a scratch mark.
- Use stone-specific cleaner if available to achieve the desired result while cleaning countertops, such as granite or quartz slab.
Poultices Cleaning
Apart from regular cleaning, paultices cleaning is a special type of cleaning method or technique that includes the use of a mixture to remove the stains or marks from the countertop’s surface.
- Begin with mixing the granite cleaner or chemical in a paste.
- Ensure the paste format is accurate and then apply it on the stain and cover the whole area.
- Put plastic wrap on the paste to ensure that it remains wet and then leave it for at least 24 to 48 hours at least.
- After the time is over, gently remove the wrapper and then remove the stain using a damp cloth.
Rinse the surface thoroughly and then dry it off using a dry cloth or small wiper.
Recommendations:
- Make sure to extend the paste beyond the stain to clean it properly.
- You may require repeating the process to deal with some stubborn stains to remove them completely from the countertop surface of granite or Invisible White porcelain.
- While learning how to remove a stain from granite countertop, you can also learn to make the poultice with easily available products at home as well.
- Apply the paste on a small area before applying it onto the stone surface to check if it’s not harming it.
Chemical cleaners
Another effective method of cleaning the granite countertops is using chemical cleaners, as they are made for it only. It usually includes:
- Take a cleaner or a specific stone cleaner (the one made to clean granite) and mix it well with warm water.
- Take a soft, dry cloth or a brush and dampen it with cleaner.( You can use same process to remove stains from wall claddings also).
- Start scrubbing the surface with the same and ensure that every corner and stain is covered.
- Rinse it properly with clean water.
- Dry the surface with a dry, soft cloth or a small wiper.
- Repeat the process in case any stain is left behind.
Recommendations
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or adhesives that contain acidic solutions.
- Make sure to apply it on a small area before applying it directly onto the stone’s surface.
- While learning how to remove water stains from granite countertops, you need to make sure to not scrub the surface harshly.
- Do not leave the water on it and dry the surface thoroughly.
Professional cleaning
The last option for knowing how to remove stains from granite countertops is hiring professional cleaners for them. It will save you a lot of time and will ensure deep and complete surface cleaning by the experts. As they have skills and understanding of different types of stains and how to deal with them, it helps with effective cleaning.
You can hire professionals to clean not only granite countertops but also other are and stepping stones such as Tandur grey limestone or garden pathways, as well.
Tips and Tricks: How to remove a stain from granite
Here are some tips and trips for effective cleaning of granite countertops:
Act quickly when spills occur.
To protect your countertop or any other surface, either flooring, wall, or vanity top, when you make a spill, act quickly in that case and wipe it off using a damp cloth. This way you can refrain from letting the stain sit on the stone’s surface.
Use coasters and placemats.
To avoid the stains, you can also use coasters and placemats. onto the stone’s surface to refrain from direct contact with the food products. This will protect your surface for a long time and will help make it look like new for years.
Avoid using harsh chemicals.
Harsh chemicals are a total no for natural stone materials such as granite, Raj green sandstone, or even engineered porcelain slabs as well. They can harm the stone’s surface and can result in potential damage or discoloration.
Seal your countertops regularly.
While learning how to remove water stains from granite, you must keep in mind that granite is a natural stone and requires additional sealing to prevent it from spilling penetration. As it is a porous material, it is necessary to apply the stone’s specific sealant to ensure longevity.
Conclusion
So here in this blog, we have discussed in detail the different types of stains and how to deal with them with different cleaning methods and recommendations. We have also shared with you tips on how to clean a stain from granite countertop to make your kitchen space look like new for years to come.
Keep in mind that usual spills are a part of working, and it is completely normal, but what matters most is how you deal with it and how quickly. So consider all the above solutions and tips and make your cleaning process hassle-free.
In case you require any further assistance, do not hesitate to contact us, as we will be more than happy to assist you with the purchase or cleaning of any natural stone or engineered stone material, either porcelain, quartz, or quartzite stone.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Purnima Kaushik is a seasoned content writer and editor with over a decade of experience in the stone and real estate industries. As a leading voice at MPG Stone, she shares insights on installment processes, project insights, design guides, and much more
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