Stone countertops bring a sense of luxury and natural beauty to any kitchen or bathroom, but they’re not immune to life’s messes. From wine spills to oil splatters, everyday use can leave behind unsightly stains that seem impossible to remove. If you’ve ever stared at a blemish on your granite or marble countertop wondering whether it’s there for good, the good news is: stains can often be removed—especially with professional help from Prestige Grout.
Here’s everything you need to know about stone countertop stains and what it really takes to eliminate them.
Understanding the Nature of Stone: Why Stains Happen
Natural stone—whether marble, granite, or quartzite—is porous. That means liquids and oils can penetrate its surface if it’s not properly sealed, leading to stains below the surface. Different stones have different vulnerabilities:
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Marble is highly susceptible to acidic spills like lemon juice, vinegar, or wine, which can cause both etching and staining.
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Granite is more resistant but can still absorb oils and darker liquids over time.
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Limestone and travertine are also very porous and easily discolored by everyday household products.
At Prestige Grout, we evaluate your specific type of stone to determine the best course of action for stain removal. Because no two countertops—or stains—are the same, a customized approach is essential.
Can You Remove Stains on Your Own?
You might be tempted to try store-bought stain removers or DIY solutions, but these often cause more harm than good. Abrasive powders, bleach-based cleaners, or even vinegar can worsen the damage—especially on delicate stones like marble. Some stains may fade with baking soda poultices or mild detergent, but others will set deeper over time if not treated correctly.
If a stain has been sitting for more than a few days, or if it’s from a tough source like oil, wine, or rust, it’s time to call in professionals like Prestige Grout. We use industry-grade poultices, professional tools, and years of experience to lift stains safely without compromising the surface.
The Professional Stain Removal Process
When we restore a stained countertop, we begin with a deep inspection of the stone’s finish, porosity, and the type of stain present. From there, our specialists apply a custom poultice—a paste designed to draw the stain out of the stone. This process can take several hours or even overnight, depending on the depth of the stain.
Once removed, we carefully clean and polish the surface to restore its original luster. In some cases, if the surface was etched in addition to stained (common with marble), we may also hone and re-polish the area to match the surrounding finish.
Sealing: Your Best Defense Against Future Stains
Once your stain is gone, sealing your stone is the most important step in protecting it from future damage. A high-quality sealer creates an invisible barrier that repels liquids and stains before they can settle into the surface. Many homeowners skip this step, only to find themselves battling the same problems again down the road.
At Prestige Grout, we apply commercial-grade sealants tailored to your specific stone type. Not only does this protect your investment, but it also makes everyday cleaning easier. Our sealing services ensure your stone stays beautiful, resilient, and stain-free.
Preventing Stains Before They Start
Even with the best sealant, no surface is completely invincible. That’s why prevention is still key. Here are a few simple habits that go a long way:
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Wipe up spills immediately—especially wine, citrus, coffee, and oils
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Use cutting boards and coasters to minimize contact with damaging substances
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Avoid harsh or acidic cleaners
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Schedule professional sealing every 1–2 years depending on usage
By following these steps and trusting Prestige Grout for your routine maintenance, your countertops will retain their natural beauty and resist staining for years to come.
Let Prestige Grout Handle the Stains So You Don’t Have To
Yes, many stains can be removed from natural stone—but only with the right tools and expertise. Whether your granite has absorbed oil, or your marble has dulled from acidic spills, Prestige Grout offers comprehensive stone countertop restoration services that erase stains, restore shine, and protect your surfaces moving forward.
Contact us today to schedule a stain assessment or learn more about our stone care and sealing solutions. Your countertops deserve expert care—and we deliver it.
