Easy Ways to Remove Stains from Natural Stone Surfaces

Natural stone surfaces like granite, marble, or even limestone can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home. They’re durable, beautiful, and make any room feel a little more luxurious. But let’s be real – they can also be a bit tricky to maintain, especially when it comes to stains.

Whether it’s a surprise coffee spill in the kitchen or a stubborn rust stain from that metal soap dish in the bathroom, keeping natural stone surfaces spotless can sometimes feel like an impossible task. But don’t worry! I’ve got some easy, practical tips to help you handle these messes, so your stone surfaces can stay looking as fresh as the day they were installed.

At EDS Cleaning Services, we know a thing or two about keeping natural stone pristine. Let’s dive into some simple ways to tackle those pesky stains and keep your stone surfaces shining!

Why Do Stains Appear on Natural Stone Surfaces?

First off, why do natural stone surfaces stain in the first place? Unlike man-made materials, natural stone is porous. This means it has tiny holes and crevices where dirt, liquids, and other substances can get trapped. So, when you leave that glass of wine or cooking oil spill sitting for a bit too long, the stone soaks it right up!

Some common types of stains you’ll see on natural stone include:

• Oil-based stains: These are from things like cooking oil, butter, or even makeup.
• Organic stains: Think coffee, wine, fruit juices, or other foods.
• Rust stains: Metal items like cans or tools left on a wet surface can leave behind rust marks.
• Ink stains: Pens, markers, or any other ink can leave behind a dark, stubborn stain.

Now that we know the “why,” let’s talk about the “how” – as in, how to get rid of these stains!

Quick and Easy Stain Removal Methods for Natural Stone

1. Act Fast on Fresh Spills

First rule of thumb: the quicker you act, the easier it’ll be to clean. If you spill something on your stone surface, wipe it up right away! Use a soft cloth or paper towel to blot the spill – don’t rub it, as this can push the liquid deeper into the stone.

2. Use a pH-Neutral Cleaner

If you’ve got some everyday dirt or minor stains, stick to a natural stone cleaning service-approved cleaner that’s pH-neutral. This is key because acidic cleaners (think vinegar, lemon juice, etc.) can actually damage the surface of your stone.

For routine cleaning, mix a little pH-neutral cleaner with warm water, grab a soft cloth or sponge, and gently clean the surface. 

3. Try a Baking Soda Poultice for Tough Stains

Got a tougher stain, like from oil or ink? Don’t worry, you can make a simple paste with baking soda to pull the stain right out.

Here’s how to do it:

• Mix baking soda and water to form a thick paste.
• Apply the paste directly onto the stained area.
• Cover it with plastic wrap and tape down the edges to seal it in.
• Let it sit for about 24-48 hours. The baking soda will slowly draw the stain out of the stone.
• Once the paste has dried, gently scrape it off with a soft tool and rinse the area with warm water.

You might need to repeat this process a few times for really stubborn stains. If nothing seems to work, don’t panic—there are professional natural stone cleaning services that can handle even the most challenging stains.

4. Use Hydrogen Peroxide for Organic Stains

Organic stains, like those from coffee, wine, or food, can be a bit more challenging to remove. Luckily, there’s a simple solution: hydrogen peroxide. Just grab a 12% hydrogen peroxide solution and follow these easy steps:

• Apply it to the stain.
• Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes.
• Gently wipe away and rinse the area with water.

This method works wonders on lighter-colored stones, but if you have darker stone, test a small, hidden area first. Hydrogen peroxide can sometimes have a slight bleaching effect, and you don’t want to create a new problem while fixing the old one!

5. Don’t Forget the Grout!

Grout lines between your stone tiles can be just as susceptible to staining as the stone itself, so don’t forget to give them some attention too! Over time, grout can absorb dirt, oils, and grime, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

For this, using a natural stone grout cleaner is your best bet. Make sure the product you choose is safe for natural stone (no harsh chemicals or acids, please!). Here’s a quick way to tackle grout stains:

• Apply the grout cleaner to the dirty areas.
• Use a soft brush (an old toothbrush works great!) to scrub gently.
• Rinse thoroughly with water and dry the area.

Keeping your grout clean not only makes your stone surfaces look brighter but also helps prevent future buildup and stains.

Pro Tips for Keeping Your Stone Spotless

Once your natural stone surfaces are clean, it’s important to maintain them to avoid future stains. Here are some preventive tips to keep your stone looking pristine:

• Seal the stone: One of the best ways to protect your natural stone is by sealing it. A high-quality sealant creates a barrier, making it harder for liquids and stains to penetrate the surface. Depending on the type of stone and usage, you may need to reapply the sealant once or twice a year.
• Use coasters and trays: For countertops, place coasters under drinks and trays under items like oil bottles or soap dispensers. This prevents stains from forming in the first place.
• Wipe spills immediately: Whether it’s water, wine, or oil, always wipe up spills right away to avoid them soaking into the stone.
• Avoid acidic substances: As mentioned earlier, keep acidic substances like citrus fruits, wine, and vinegar away from unsealed stone surfaces.

When It’s Time to Call the Professionals

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, those deep-set stains just won’t budge. Or maybe your stone surfaces are due for a thorough, professional cleaning. That’s when it’s time to call in the experts.

At EDS Cleaning Services, we specialize in natural stone cleaning services designed to restore the beauty of your stone surfaces. Whether it’s your countertops, floors, or outdoor spaces, we’ve got the tools and expertise to give them a deep clean and bring them back to life.

Final Words

Maintaining your natural stone surfaces doesn’t have to be difficult! With the right cleaning techniques, a little preventive care, and the occasional professional treatment, your stone can stay beautiful for years to come. Remember, using pH-neutral cleaners, addressing stains quickly, and applying sealant when needed are all easy ways to keep your stone surfaces in top condition.

And if those pesky stains still won’t budge, don’t stress! EDS Cleaning Services is here to help with expert cleaning solutions tailored to your natural stone’s needs.

Contact us today for a professional clean that will leave your stone surfaces looking like new. You’ll love the results—and your stone will thank you!