Granite countertops are a popular choice for many homeowners because of their durability and beauty. However, they can be stained if not properly cared for like all surfaces. In this article, we will discuss the most common things that can stain granite countertops and how to prevent them from happening. We will also provide tips on cleaning granite countertops if they do become stained.
Granite has pores making it one of the most porous countertop materials, and because of this, almost anything can stain granite countertops if it hasn’t been properly sealed.
There are a lot of things that can stain granite countertops, but here are some of the most common ones and how to remove them:
1. Coffee and Tea
Coffee and tea can easily stain granite countertops if they are not cleaned up quickly. Coffee and tea contain natural coloring agents that can penetrate the granite and leave a permanent stain if not removed timely.
The sugars in coffee and tea can also attract dirt and grime, leading to a stain. To remove coffee and tea stains from your granite countertops;
- Step 1: Use a clean cloth dampened with warm water and mild dish soap.
- Step 2: Rub the affected area in a circular motion until the stain is gone.
- Step 3: Rinse the area with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.
- Step 4: Allow the granite to air dry or use a hairdryer on the cool setting to speed up the process. Repeat these steps as necessary until the stain is gone.
2. Red Wine
Red wine can be a nuisance when it comes to stain removal because it can be difficult to remove if not dealt with quickly. In addition, the tannins in red wine are what cause the staining, and they can be tricky to get out.
The good news is that you can do a few things to remove a red wine stain from your granite countertops.
- Step 1: Blot the area with a clean cloth to remove as much wine as possible.
- Step 2: Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stain.
- Step 3: Let the paste sit on the stain for at least 30 minutes. Also, depending on how long the red wine stain has been on your granite, you can leave it overnight.
- Step 4: Scrap it off and wipe it away with a damp cloth.
3. Lemon Juice
Another thing that can stain granite countertops pretty badly is lemon juice. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is acidic and can etch or burn the surface of your granite if left for too long. Lemon juice can also discolor your granite countertops if not cleaned up quickly.
What makes this even worse is when the peels and lemon juice are left on the countertop for a prolonged time. It can be challenging to remove the stain when this happens, and you might even need professional help. To remove a lemon juice stain from your granite countertops;
- Step 1: Create a paste using baking soda and water.
- Step 2: Apply the paste over the lemon juice stain.
- Step 3: Cover the paste with a plastic wrap and let it sit overnight.
- Step 4: Remove the paste and rinse the area with clean water.
- Step 5: Wipe it dry with a soft cloth and repeat these steps as necessary until the stain is gone.
4. Oils And Grease
Oils and grease can be a nightmare to remove from granite countertops because they can easily penetrate the granite’s porous surface. In addition, oil and grease can build up on the surface of your granite countertop over a period of time and become difficult to remove.
Oil and grease stains are common in the kitchen, especially near the stove. To remove oil and grease stains from your granite countertops;
- Step 1: To blot the area, use a clean cloth dampened with warm water and mild dish soap.
- Step 2: Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a clean cloth and gently rub the affected area.
- Step 3: You can also use a grease-cutting cleaner to remove the stain. Follow the instructions on the label, and be sure to test it in an inconspicuous area first.
5. Makeup
Another common thing that can stain granite countertops is makeup stains. Makeup can be very difficult to remove from granite countertops because of the dyes and pigments used in the products.
Foundation, lipstick, and eyeshadow are the most common makeup products that can stain granite countertops. To remove makeup stains from your granite countertops;
- Step 1: Use a clean cloth dampened with warm water and mild dish soap to remove as much makeup as possible.
- Step 2: Make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste over the stain and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 3: Scrub the area with a soft-bristled brush and rinse it with clean water.
- Repeat these steps as necessary until the stain is gone.
6. Dirt And Grime
Dirt and grime can also stain granite countertops if they are not cleaned regularly. Dirt and grime can build up over time and become difficult to remove. To clean dirt and grime from your granite countertops;
- Step 1: Mix a solution of warm water and dish soap.
- Step 2: Dampen a clean cloth in the soapy water and wipe down the countertop’s surface.
- Step 3: Rinse the countertop with clean water.
- Step 4: Dry the countertop with a clean towel.
- If you have stubborn dirt and grime that won’t come off with soap and water, you can try using a mild abrasive cleaner.
Be sure to read the instructions on the cleaner before use and test it in an inconspicuous area first.
To prevent dirt and grime from building up on your granite countertops, be sure to wipe them down regularly with a damp cloth. You can also use a granite sealer to create a barrier on the countertop’s surface that will repel dirt and grime.
7. Mold And Mildew
Mold and mildew can also stain granite countertops. As I have mentioned before, granite is porous, and this creates room for moisture that can cause mold and mildew to grow. Mold and mildew can be difficult to remove from granite countertops, and it is important to act quickly when you see it. To remove mold and mildew from your granite countertops;
- Step 1: Mix a solution of 50/50 bleach and water in a spray bottle.
- Step 2: Apply the bleach solution to the affected area with a clean cloth.
- Step 3: Allow the solution to sit on the countertop for at least 5-10 minutes.
- Step 4: Rinse the area with clean water.
- Step 5: Use mild dish soap and warm water to remove any residual mold or mildew.
- Step 6: Repeat these steps as necessary until the mold and mildew are gone. You may also need to use a scrub brush to remove stubborn mold and mildew stains.
To prevent mold and mildew from growing on your granite countertops, be sure to clean them regularly and dry them thoroughly. You can also use a granite sealer to create a barrier on the countertop’s surface that will repel water and mold.
8. Ink
Like makeup, ink can be very difficult to remove from granite countertops because of the dyes and pigments used in the products. Ink stains can be caused by fountain pens, ballpoint pens, and Sharpies. To remove ink stains from your granite countertops;
- Step 1: Blot as much of the ink stains as possible with a clean white cloth.
- Step 2: Use acetone or alcohol on a cotton swab or ball to remove the remaining ink.
- Step 3: Continue scrubbing the granite with the acetone or rubbing alcohol until the stain is gone.
- Step 4: If the ink stain is still present, make a paste of baking soda and water.
- Step 5: Apply the paste to the ink stain and let it sit overnight.
- Step 6: Wipe away the paste with a clean cloth.
- Step 7: Repeat steps four through six as necessary until the stain is gone.
9. Rust or Metal Stains
Rust and metal stains can be caused by iron, steel, or other metals coming into contact with the surface of the granite. Generally, you should be able to use a granite rust stain remover to remove rust or metal stains. Simply follow the application and removal instructions on the product.
If you don’t have a granite rust stain remover, you can use a mild abrasive cleaner like white vinegar. To remove rust stains from your granite countertops using white vinegar, here’s how to go about it;
- Step 1: Make a paste of white vinegar and baking soda.
- Step 2: Apply the paste to the rust stain with a clean cloth.
- Step 3: Allow the paste to sit on the countertop for about 24 hours.
- Step 4: Wipe away the paste clean and see if the stain is gone.
- Step 5: You can repeat the process until the stain is removed.
If you can’t remove the rust or metal stains from your granite countertops, you may need to call a professional.
10. Hard Water Stains
Hard water stains are caused by water minerals that build up on the granite’s surface. These stains can be difficult to remove and may require special cleaners. Hard water stains are common around faucets, sinks, and drains.
You can find hard water stain removers at most hardware stores or online, but I got you covered if you’re interested in using some home remedies. Here’s all you need and how to go about it. To remove hard water stains from your granite countertops;
- Step 1: Mix a solution of equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Step 2: Apply the vinegar solution to the affected area with a clean cloth.
- Step 3: Allow the solution to sit on the countertop for about 15 minutes, and then wipe it away with a clean cloth.
- Step 4: Repeat these steps until the hard water stains are gone. You may also need to use a scrub brush to remove stubborn stains.
Final Thoughts
I hope this article was helpful in teaching you how to remove different types of stains from your granite countertops. As you can see, some stains are more difficult to remove than others. If you can’t seem to get a stain out, it’s best to call a professional. Thanks for reading!
