Common Countertop Stains & How to Remove Them

Keep Your Countertops Spotless

Countertops are high-traffic surfaces, making them prone to spills and stains. Whether it's coffee, wine, grease, or ink, knowing how to properly clean each stain will help maintain the beauty and longevity of your stone surfaces. The key is to act quickly and use the right cleaning techniques to prevent permanent damage. Here’s how to tackle the most common countertop stains.

Removing Coffee & Tea Stains

Coffee and tea can leave dark, stubborn stains, especially on light-colored countertops. To remove them, mix baking soda and water into a paste, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before wiping clean. For quartz or granite, use a gentle stone cleaner to lift the stain without damaging the surface.

Tackling Wine & Juice Spills

Red wine and fruit juice contain natural acids and strong pigments, making them some of the most difficult stains to remove. Immediately blot (don’t rub!) the spill with a paper towel. For porous surfaces like marble, use a mix of hydrogen peroxide and mild dish soap to lift the stain. For sealed stone surfaces, a simple warm water and soap solution works well.

"The faster you clean a spill, the better the chances of preventing a permanent stain. Using the right method for each material is key." – Industry Expert

Removing Oil & Grease Buildup

Grease from cooking can leave a sticky residue that dulls your countertop’s appearance. For non-porous surfaces like quartz, use a mild degreaser or dish soap and warm water. For granite or marble, create a paste with cornstarch and water, apply it, and let it sit for 15-30 minutes before wiping it clean.

Ink, Marker & Pen Stains

Ink and marker stains are common in home offices and kitchens. For quartz or sealed stone, rubbing alcohol on a microfiber cloth can lift the stain without harm. For marble or unsealed stone, make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it for 10 minutes, and gently wipe it away.

Quick Stain Removal Guide:

• Coffee/Tea – Baking soda paste for 10 minutes, then wipe clean.
• Wine/Juice – Blot, then clean with hydrogen peroxide & dish soap.
• Grease/Oil – Use mild dish soap; for stone, apply cornstarch paste.
• Ink/Marker – Rubbing alcohol for quartz, baking soda paste for marble.
• General Spills – Clean immediately with warm water & mild soap.

Keeping your countertops stain-free is easier than you think. With the right techniques and quick action, you can prevent permanent discoloration and maintain your countertop’s beauty for years.

Need professional care for your countertops? Contact ArcherStone today for expert cleaning and restoration services!

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