After cursing and slapping yourself, what’s the next best course of action?
Well, for an organic substance like coffee or tea, Stone Holding recommends one of the MiraSeal products such as Mira Clean #1, Tile & Grout Cleaner, Liquid Poultice or alternatively try 35% Hydrogen Peroxide. Pour directly on the stain and then add a few drops of ammonia. Leave on until the bubbling stops.
For oil-based stains, we like MiraSeal Mira Clean # 1, Tile & Grout Cleaner, Liquid Poultice, Mira Strip, Bleach, Household Detergent, Ammonia or Mineral Spirits. Follow with a poultice of one of the following: Mineral Spirits, MiraSeal Mira Strip or Methyl Chloride.
Note that some chemicals necessary for stain removal will remove the finish on polished marble, limestone, terrazzo and travertine. As a result, repolishing with abrasives or polishing compounds may be necessary.
In general, granite needs minimal care. Clean it with a soft white cloth and a neutral cleaner or household detergent such as Dove. Household cleaning products including Windex, Lysol Disinfectant and 409 can be used, but may leave a film. A solution of vinegar and water (1:10 vinegar to water) works great to remove streaking, smudges, and body oil on granite.
Spills should be wiped up immediately. Blot the spill with a clean paper towel. If the countertop stains, a poultice may need to be applied. See the Stain Removal guidelines that follow. Use the flat side of a razor blade for removing stuck on tape residue, dried paint, glue, dried food, etc.
Use #0000 or finer steel wool to remove dried water spots, smudges, hazy areas, and for general cleaning to bring out the shine. Do not use the steel wool wet. Use a pencil eraser to remove aluminum trails.
Of course if you’ve really made a mess of things and want our expert opinion, feel free to call Stone Holding Company at 800-341-1540. We’re happy to help.
Arandis dark, one of our many exotic granites at Stone Holding Company.
