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How to Remove Common Stains from Stone Surfaces

At Stone Guys NY, we understand that even with the best care, stains can happen. Knowing how to address them can make all the difference in preserving the beauty of your stone surfaces. Here’s a guide on how to remove common stains from stone surfaces, keeping them as immaculate as the day they were installed.

1. Organic Stains (Coffee, Tea, Wine, Fruit):

• Lightly Stained: Blot up any excess liquid immediately. Clean the area with a mild liquid detergent and water, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a soft cloth.
• Heavily Stained: Create a poultice with a suitable stone-safe absorbent material (like talc or diatomaceous earth) and a cleaning agent (like hydrogen peroxide for light-colored stones or acetone for darker stones). Apply it to the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and leave it for 24-48 hours. The poultice will draw out the stain from the stone.

2. Oil-Based Stains (Grease, Cooking Oil, Cosmetics):

• Clean the surface with a soft liquid cleanser, household detergent, ammonia, or mineral spirits. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
• For stubborn stains, a poultice made with an absorbent material and a degreasing agent may be necessary. Apply, cover, and leave as directed above.

3. Metal Stains (Iron, Rust, Copper, Bronze):

• Metal stains must be removed with a poultice. However, they are particularly challenging and might not be entirely removable. Iron or rust stains are orange to brown in color and follow the shape of the staining object. Copper and bronze stains appear as green or muddy-brown.
• For these stains, a poultice with diatomaceous earth and a commercially available rust remover is often recommended.

4. Biological Stains (Mold, Mildew, Algae):

• Clean with a mild bleach solution or hydrogen peroxide (for light-colored stones) or diluted ammonia (never mix ammonia and bleach). Ensure the area is well-ventilated.
• Apply the cleaner, scrub gently with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and dry.

5. Ink Stains:

• On light-colored stones, use bleach or hydrogen peroxide. For dark stones, use acetone or lacquer thinner.
• For stubborn stains, a poultice may be required. Apply, cover with plastic, and leave it for 24 hours before rinsing and drying.

General Tips:

• Test First: Always test the cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage the stone.
• Blot, Don’t Wipe: Blotting prevents the stain from spreading. Wiping can make it worse.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Any cleaning agent left on the stone can cause issues. Rinse and dry thoroughly after any stain removal process.
• Consult Professionals: For persistent or unclear stains, contact a professional. Stone Guys NY can provide expert advice or services to ensure your stone is treated correctly.

Conclusion

Remember, the type of stone and the nature of the stain will significantly influence the cleaning method. When in doubt, it’s always best to consult with professionals to avoid damaging your precious stone surfaces. For expert advice or professional stain removal services, reach out to Stone Guys NY at StoneGuysNY@gmail.com or (888) 786-6369. We’re here to help you keep your stone surfaces looking spotless and splendid.