How to Remove Stains from Granite Countertops: Effective DIY Solutions

Granite countertops are gorgeous and durable, but their natural porosity makes them vulnerable to stains from spills, oils, or everyday mishaps. Whether it’s coffee, wine, ink, or rust, acting quickly is key to preventing permanent marks.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to remove stains from granite countertops safely, avoid common mistakes, and protect your surfaces for the long term.

Table of Contents

• Step-by-Step: How To Remove Stains from Granite Countertops
  • Step 1: Identify the Type of Stain
  • Step 2: Test in a Hidden Spot
  • Step 3: Choose the Right Cleaning Method
    • Oil Stains
    • Organic Stains
    • Ink/Marker Stains
    • Rust Stains
  • Step 4: Apply Poultices for Stubborn Stains
  • Step 5: Rinse and Dry
• How to Remove Dark Spots on Granite Countertops
  • Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
  • Step 2: Apply the Acetone
  • Step 3: Seal and Wait
  • Step 4: Remove and Clean
  • Step 5: Reseal the Granite
• Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Granite
• FAQs About Granite Stains
• Next Steps in Granite Countertop Care

Step-by-Step: How To Remove Stains from Granite Countertops

To remove stain from granite countertops, follow these five-step cleaning procedure:

Step 1: Identify the Type of Stain

The first step is knowing what you’re dealing with:

• Oil-based stains: cooking oil, butter, cosmetics.
  
• Organic stains: coffee, tea, wine, fruit juice.
  
• Ink or marker stains: pens, Sharpies.
  
• Rust stains: from metal contact.
  
• Other surface marks: hair dye, curry, or cosmetic stains.
  

💡 Tip from users: Baking soda paste works wonders for oil stains. Mix with water into a paste, cover with plastic wrap, and leave overnight. Some users found multiple sessions removed even decades-old smoke stains!

Step 2: Test in a Hidden Spot

Before applying any cleaner, test it on a discreet corner. Granite is porous, and even safe solutions can sometimes discolor or etch the stone.

• For peroxide or alcohol-based cleaners, try a small area first.
  
• For commercial products like Hope’s Perfect Granite Spray, a hidden test ensures the finish won’t be affected.
  

User HagOfTheNorth shared that Hope’s Perfect Granite spray performed impressively, proving that specialized granite products can deliver “miracle” results.

Step 3: Choose the Right Cleaning Method

Oil Stains

• Baking soda + water paste.
  
• Apply to stain, cover with plastic wrap, leave overnight.
  
• Wipe off, repeat if necessary.
  

Organic Stains

• Hydrogen peroxide or a peroxide water mix, tested first in a hidden spot.
  
• Gently wipe after 24 hours.
  

Ink/Marker Stains

• Denatured alcohol on a soft cloth works safely.
  
• For black Sharpie stains, a paper towel soaked in vodka, layered over the stain for a day, has been used successfully by multiple users.
  

Rust Stains

• Rust Dissolver designed for stone surfaces.
  
• Avoid bleach unless the granite is white and tested in a hidden area.
  

General Tips:

• Hairspray can work on small ink spots — spray, rub gently, repeat.
  
• Combining mild cleaners (like Dawn dish soap) with soft cloths can help for light stains without scratching.
  
• Avoid harsh chemicals like standard bleach or strong acids on colored granite unless confirmed safe.
  

Expert note: Granite fabricators recommend using products made specifically for stone and always resealing afterward to prevent future staining.

Step 4: Apply Poultices for Stubborn Stains

• Mix a paste suitable for the stain type (baking soda for oil, hydrogen peroxide for organics).
  
• Spread over the stain and cover with plastic wrap.
  
• Leave for 24 hours or until the paste dries.
  
• Remove and rinse thoroughly.
  

💡 Tip from users: Multiple applications may be required for stubborn or older stains.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

• Wipe down the area with a clean, damp microfiber cloth.
  
• Dry thoroughly to prevent watermarks or streaking.
  
• Once dry, consider resealing granite countertops to restore protection.
  

How to Remove Dark Spots on Granite Countertops

Here’s a proven step-by-step process to remove granite stains and restore your countertops.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

You’ll need:

• Plain white paper towels
• Acetone
• Plastic wrap (like Saran Wrap)
• Tape
• Granite sealer

Step 2: Apply the Acetone

Soak plain paper towels in acetone and place them directly over the darkened granite spot. Acetone is strong enough to draw out trapped moisture or oils without damaging the stone.

Step 3: Seal and Wait

Cover the paper towels with plastic wrap and tape down the edges. This keeps the acetone in place and allows it to work effectively. Let it sit for about 24 hours.

Step 4: Remove and Clean

After a day, peel off the plastic wrap and allow the acetone to evaporate. Discard the dry paper towels and wipe down the countertop with a clean cloth.

Step 5: Reseal the Granite

Once your granite is completely dry, apply a granite sealer. This is a crucial step for preventing future stains and keeping the surface looking uniform.

👉 Pro Tip: Even if only one spot was affected, consider resealing the entire countertop at once. This ensures consistent color and a longer-lasting protective barrier.

Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Granite

Granite is durable, but improper care can dull its shine, cause streaks, or even damage the surface. Avoid these common mistakes:

1. Using vinegar, lemon juice, or strong acids directly on colored granite
   Acidic cleaners can etch the stone or fade the color. Stick to pH-neutral, stone-safe granite cleaners for daily use.
   
2. Scrubbing aggressively with abrasive pads
   Rough scrubbers can scratch the polished surface. Use soft microfiber cloths or non-abrasive sponges for cleaning.
   
3. Skipping the hidden spot test
   Even products labeled safe for granite can sometimes discolor the surface. Always test in an inconspicuous area before full application.
   
4. Sealing over stains before they’re fully removed
   Applying sealer over stains locks in the discoloration permanently. Always treat stains first using proper granite stain removal methods.
   

💡 Pro Tip: Gentle, consistent care preserves the natural beauty of granite while preventing long-term damage and costly repairs.

FAQs About Granite Stains

Can I remove all granite stains at home?
Most common stains can be removed safely with a poultice or stone-safe cleaners. Rare or old stains may require professional help.

Is bleach safe for granite?
Only on tested white granite; for colored granite, use products made for natural stone.

How long should a poultice stay on a stain?
Typically 24 hours, but stubborn stains may require repeated applications.

Will removing stains damage my granite?
If you follow recommended methods and test in a hidden spot, granite should remain intact and unetched.

Do I need to reseal after removing stains?
Yes. Stain removal can slightly open the granite’s pores, so resealing restores protection and prevents future absorption.

Next Steps in Granite Countertop Care

Removing stains from granite doesn’t have to be intimidating. By identifying the stain type, testing cleaners in a hidden spot, using poultices for stubborn marks, and avoiding harsh chemicals, you can restore your countertop’s beauty safely.

Now that your granite countertops are stain-free, keep them looking pristine with proper maintenance:

• Learn how to clean granite countertops without streaks to prevent residue or watermarks.
  
• Protect your surface with resealing granite countertops after stain removal.
  
• Incorporate daily granite cleaning and deep granite care into your routine for long-lasting results.
  

👉 If you also have marble or other stone surfaces, check out clean marble countertops without etching. For the entire kitchen, follow our step-by-step kitchen cleaning routine to keep all surfaces spotless.