Natural stone countertops are a premium choice for kitchens and bathrooms because of their durability and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’ve chosen marble, granite, quartzite, or soapstone, your surface brings sophistication and function to your space. However, even the strongest stone isn’t completely immune to staining. When you spot a ring from a wine glass, a shadow from cooking oil, or discoloration from cosmetics, your first instinct might be to grab the nearest cleaner and start scrubbing—but that’s not always the best move.
In this blog, we’ll answer the question: Can you remove a stain from your stone countertop? We’ll explain the types of stains, what can and can’t be fixed at home, and when to call a professional like Stone Medics to safely and effectively restore your countertop.
Understanding the Type of Stain Matters
Before jumping to a solution, you first need to identify the type of stain you’re dealing with. Stone is porous, and different materials absorb substances differently. Here are the most common types:
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Oil-Based Stains: From cooking oil, lotion, or grease—these can darken the stone and are particularly common in kitchens.
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Organic Stains: Caused by coffee, wine, tea, fruit, or paper towels left sitting on the surface. These stains are often brown, pink, or yellow.
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Metal Stains: Rust from cans or metal trays can leave orange or reddish marks.
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Etch Marks (Often Confused with Stains): These occur when acidic substances like lemon juice, vinegar, or cleaners eat into the surface, especially on marble.
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Water Spots: Mineral-rich water may leave rings or marks when it evaporates, particularly around faucets or sinks.
Identifying the stain properly is the only way to know how to treat it.
DIY Stain Removal: What You Can Try at Home
If you’ve identified a light or recent stain, there are safe ways to attempt removal on your own—but only with care.
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Blot, Don’t Rub: Start by blotting the stain with a paper towel to absorb any residue. Rubbing can push it further into the stone.
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Use a pH-Neutral Stone Cleaner: Avoid generic kitchen cleaners or anything acidic. Opt for a cleaner specifically formulated for stone.
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Try a Poultice: A poultice is a paste made from an absorbent material and a chemical agent designed to draw the stain out of the stone. Different stains require different agents—baking soda and water for oil, hydrogen peroxide for organics. It’s applied, covered, and left for 24–48 hours before removal.
If the stain begins to fade after this process, you’re likely on the right track. However, stubborn or deep-set stains might not budge, and using the wrong poultice can do more harm than good.
When to Call in the Professionals
Many homeowners make the mistake of using harsh cleaners, abrasives, or acidic solutions to remove stains—especially when they don’t see results quickly. Unfortunately, this can permanently damage the stone surface. If you’re facing any of the following, it’s time to call the experts at Stone Medics:
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Stains That Don’t Respond to DIY Treatment
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Etching or Surface Damage
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Discoloration Spreading or Worsening
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Antique or High-Value Stone Surfaces
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You’re Unsure of the Stone Type or Finish
Our team uses professional-grade poultices, tools, and sealing agents tailored to the specific type of stone and stain. We can safely remove stains, polish etched areas, and reseal your surface to prevent future damage.
Preventing Future Stains
Once your stone countertop has been cleaned or restored, prevention is the next step. Here’s how to protect your investment:
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Seal Regularly: A high-quality sealant acts as a barrier, minimizing stain absorption. We recommend resealing annually or biannually, depending on usage.
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Wipe Up Spills Immediately: Especially oil, wine, citrus, and tomato-based products.
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Use Coasters and Trivets: Protect your counters from heat, oils, and condensation.
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Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Always use pH-neutral cleaners and avoid vinegar, bleach, or ammonia.
Stone countertops are low-maintenance when cared for properly, and preventive steps go a long way toward keeping them stain-free.
Trust Stone Medics to Restore the Beauty of Your Counters
If a stubborn stain is taking away from the elegance of your stone surface, Stone Medics is here to help. We specialize in professional stone cleaning, stain removal, restoration, and sealing for homes and businesses across the Cleveland area—including Chagrin Falls, Moreland Hills, Aurora, and beyond.
Our experts will identify the stain type, assess your stone, and recommend the safest, most effective solution to restore your countertop’s natural beauty. Whether it’s a single spot or widespread damage, you can trust us to deliver results that protect your investment and elevate your space.
Contact Stone Medics today for a free consultation—and let us help bring your countertops back to life.
