How to Get Grease Stains Out of Granite Countertops – Step-by-Step Guide

Granite countertops are a kitchen favorite due to their durability, elegance, and natural beauty. However, even the sturdiest granite can develop grease stains from cooking, oil splatters, or food spills. Unlike minor spills that wipe away easily, grease can penetrate the pores of granite, making it tricky to remove.

The good news? With the right approach and a little patience, you can restore your granite countertops to their original shine. In this guide, we’ll cover proven methods to remove grease stains, including a poultice technique, everyday cleaning tips, and preventive measures to keep your granite spotless.

Why Granite Gets Grease Stains

Granite is a natural, porous stone, meaning it can absorb liquids, oils, and other substances if not sealed properly. Grease stains often occur in areas where cooking oils or fatty foods come into contact with the countertop. If left unattended, these oils can settle deep into the stone, creating dark, stubborn stains.

Common causes of grease stains include:

• Frying or sautéing food in oil
  
• Oily hands touching the countertop
  
• Spills from butter, salad dressing, or sauces
  
• Long-term buildup from unsealed or poorly maintained granite
  

Understanding how grease interacts with granite helps explain why specialized cleaning methods are often necessary.

Materials Needed to Remove a Grease Stain

Before tackling a grease stain, gather the following materials:

• Soft washcloths
  
• Mild dish detergent
  
• Warm water
  
• Paper towels
  
• Acetone (available in paint departments or hardware stores)
  
• Plastic wrap
  
• Masking or painter’s tape
  
• Baby powder or talc
  
• Unbleached flour
  
• Putty knife
  

These tools will help you safely remove grease without scratching or damaging your granite countertops.

Step-by-Step Guide: Removing Grease Stains from Granite

Here’s a proven method that combines surface cleaning with a poultice technique to lift even deep-set grease from granite.

Step 1: Prepare and Clean the Surface

1. Run your hand gently over the granite to check for any particles, dust, or debris.
   
2. Wipe the countertop with a damp cloth and a small amount of dish detergent.
   
3. Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth to remove streaks.
   

Tip: A clean surface ensures the poultice can directly target the grease stain without interference from surface grime.

Step 2: Make a Poultice to Draw Out the Grease

A poultice is a paste that pulls stains from porous surfaces. For grease, you can make one using either acetone with paper towels or a powder-based mixture.

Option 1: Paper Towel Poultice

1. Fold several layers of paper towels and soak them in acetone.
   
2. Ensure the paper towel covers an area larger than the grease stain.
   

Option 2: Powder-Based Poultice

1. Mix acetone with baby powder or unbleached flour until the consistency resembles peanut butter.
   
2. Spread the mixture slightly beyond the edges of the stain using a putty knife.
   

Why it works: The acetone interacts chemically with the grease, while the absorbent material pulls the oil from the granite’s pores.

Step 3: Apply and Cover the Poultice

1. Place the acetone-soaked paper towel or powder poultice over the grease stain.
   
2. Cover with plastic wrap and tape down the edges to keep it flat against the granite.
   
3. Ensure the poultice is in full contact with the stained area for maximum effectiveness.
   

Step 4: Let the Poultice Work

• Leave the poultice on the stain overnight to allow it to draw out the grease.
  
• For stubborn stains, you may leave it up to 24 hours.
  
• Once the time has passed, remove the plastic wrap carefully and allow the poultice to dry.
  

Tip: For powder-based poultices, the paste should dry like a hard layer that can easily be lifted off.

Step 5: Remove the Poultice and Clean the Area

1. Use a putty knife or soft cloth to gently remove the dried poultice.
   
2. Wipe the area with a damp washcloth to remove any residue.
   
3. Dry thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.
   

Expected Result: The grease stain should be significantly reduced or completely gone.

Step 6: Repeat if Necessary

Some stubborn grease stains may require a second application. Repeat the poultice process until the stain is fully removed.

Pro Tip: Patience is key. Deep grease can take multiple treatments to lift entirely from granite’s pores.

Alternative Methods for Grease Removal

While the acetone poultice is highly effective, other methods can help remove lighter grease stains:

1. Warm Soapy Water: Use a soft cloth and mild dish detergent for fresh spills.
   
2. Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda and water to form a paste and leave on the stain for 8–12 hours. This works best on light grease stains.
   
3. Commercial Granite Cleaner: pH-neutral cleaners formulated for granite can safely lift oil and grease without damaging the stone.
   

Avoid using abrasive pads or harsh chemicals like ammonia or vinegar, which can etch or dull granite surfaces.

Preventing Future Grease Stains

Prevention is easier than removal. Keep your granite countertops looking flawless by following these tips:

• Wipe up spills immediately: Don’t let oil or grease sit on the surface.
  
• Use trivets and cutting boards: Protect granite from direct contact with frying pans or oily cookware.
  
• Seal granite regularly: A properly sealed countertop resists grease and other stains more effectively.
  
• Routine cleaning: Wipe countertops daily with a damp microfiber cloth and mild dish soap.
  

By practicing these preventive measures, you can minimize the risk of future grease stains and extend the life of your granite countertops.

FAQs About Grease Stains on Granite

Q1: Can I use acetone safely on all granite types?
A: Yes, but always test in a small, inconspicuous area first. Acetone works on grease but should be used sparingly.

Q2: How long should a poultice stay on the stain?
A: Leave it overnight (8–24 hours) for maximum effect. Repeat for stubborn stains.

Q3: Can baking soda remove grease stains too?
A: Yes, for light or fresh grease stains. Baking soda acts as a mild absorbent and is safe for granite.

Q4: Are magic erasers safe on granite?
A: No. They are mildly abrasive and can scratch or dull the granite’s surface.

Conclusion

Grease stains on granite countertops can be stubborn, but with the right tools and methods, they are completely manageable. Using an acetone-based poultice—with paper towels or powder—can safely lift grease from granite’s pores without damaging the stone. For lighter stains, baking soda, warm soapy water, or commercial granite cleaners can also do the job.

By acting quickly, using proper cleaning techniques, and sealing your granite regularly, you can keep your countertops beautiful, spotless, and long-lasting. A little elbow grease combined with these proven methods ensures your granite will continue to shine like new.