Acid Stain on Granite Countertop – 4 Causes & Fixes

Note: Granite damaged by acid is a common concern for many homeowners. This article aims to provide easy-to-understand information on the causes, solutions, and prevention of acid stains on granite countertops.

Granite countertops are a popular choice for their durability and aesthetic appeal. Acid stains on granite can be challenging to remove, but with the right approach, it is possible to restore your countertop’s original beauty and prevent future occurrences.

Acidic foods, while commonly used in cooking for their flavor-enhancing properties, have the potential to damage granite countertops. Although consuming these foods is generally safe for human health, they can leave behind stubborn acid stains on the granite surface. So how do you remove acid stains from granite countertop?

Here are the steps to remove acid stains from a granite countertop

1. Identify the stained areas.
2. Prepare a cleaning solution using baking soda and water.
3. Apply the solution to the stained areas using a clean rag or towel.
4. Gently scrub the affected areas.
5. Rinse the countertop with clean water.
6. Check the results and repeat the process if necessary.
7. Wipe down the countertop with a dry towel.
8. Apply a sealant to protect the countertop from future stains.

Now, let’s delve into the details of different causes of acid stains on granite countertops, their solutions, and effective prevention methods.

Does Acid Destroy Granite Countertop?

While “destroy” may sound severe, highly corrosive acids can indeed damage granite countertop. However, when it comes to acid stains caused by food, the most common concern, the damage is generally limited to surface discoloration. To prevent such stains, always use a chopping board when cutting acidic fruits and ensure prompt cleanup.

Causes of Acid Stains on Granite Countertops

Here are the causes of acid stains on granite countertops:

• Spills or constant exposure to vinegar, which is highly acidic, can lead to acid stains on the granite surface.
• Certain foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and pineapples, contain acids that can cause stains when they come into contact with the granite.
• Spills from wine, especially if the sealant on the countertop has worn out, can result in acid stains.
• In rare cases, contact with sulphuric acid, which is commonly found in laboratory settings, can cause acid stains on granite surfaces.

Acid Stain Caused By Vinegar

Vinegar, a versatile ingredient found in many kitchens, is highly acidic. Frequent spills of vinegar on your granite countertop can strip away the material’s sheen and create patchy acid stains. Fortunately, vinegar stains can be easily reversed with appropriate cleaning methods, but preventive measures should be taken to avoid recurrence.

Solution: baking soda and water

To remove vinegar stains from your granite countertop, create a solution using baking soda and water. Here’s how:

1. Prepare a small batch of the solution in a bucket or container.
2. Soak a clean rag in the solution and gently scrub the affected areas.
3. Rinse the countertop with clean water.
4. Wipe it down with a dry towel.

Prevention measures

To prevent vinegar stains on your granite countertop, avoid spilling vinegar and take precautions when using it as a cleaning agent. Vinegar’s acidic nature can dissolve the natural silica in granite, which gives it a glossy finish and water- and dust-repellent properties. If you accidentally spill vinegar, clean it immediately using a detergent and sponge to prevent damage to the granite.

Acid Stains Caused Acidic Foods

Certain acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and pineapples, can also cause acid stains on granite countertops. While it may be convenient to cut these fruits directly on your granite surface, it’s essential to be aware of their potential to stain the countertop.

Solution: Immediate cleaning

When acid stains from food occur, it is crucial to clean them promptly using the right techniques. Simply wiping the countertop with water and a cloth may not suffice, as it may not remove all the acid residue. Instead, create a mixture of detergent, water, and a small amount of baking soda. Follow these steps:

1. Prepare the mixture in a bucket.
2. Soak a sponge or towel in the solution and clean the granite countertop.
3. Use a dry towel to wipe it clean.

Prevention measures

To prevent acid stains caused by food, it is essential to identify the source of the problem and take preventive measures. When cutting acidic fruits, always use a chopping board to minimize damage and avoid direct contact with the granite countertop. By taking these precautions, you can save yourself the headache of dealing with acid stains later on.

Acid Stains Caused By Wine Spillage

Enjoying a glass of wine is a delightful pastime, but spills on your granite countertop can lead to acid stains. Merely wiping the wine stain may not suffice, as the stain can linger and gradually wear down the granite surface. However, there is a solution.

Solution: Cleaning and resealing

To remove acid stains caused by wine, use soap, a standard cleaner, or a cleaning solution specifically designed for granite. Ensure that the granite countertop is adequately sealed, as wine stains occur when the sealant is worn out. After cleaning, reseal the granite with a high-quality sealant to maintain its pristine condition.

Prevention measures

To prevent wine-related acid stains, always use coasters when placing glasses or bottles on your granite countertop. In the event of a spill, clean it immediately using a baking soda solution. Regularly resealing your granite countertop will help preserve its gloss and protect it from potential stains.

Acid Stains Caused By Sulphur

Although rare, situations involving sulphuric acid and granite countertops can arise, particularly in laboratory settings. It’s important to know that even aggressive acid stains can be salvaged with the right techniques.

Solution: Polishing

The most effective solution for removing sulphuric acid stains from granite is polishing. There are different methods to achieve this, including manual polishing, using power tools, or hiring a professional. For a DIY approach, follow these steps:

1. Choose either a dry granite polish powder or a wet granite polish paste.
2. Apply the powder or paste to the affected area.
3. Use a hand grinder or sanding machine to work the powder or paste into the granite, smoothing out the surface.
4. Repeat the process across the entire granite countertop until you achieve the desired result.
5. Remove any remaining powder or paste using clean water and a dry rag.
6. Restore the sheen and gloss by applying a silica-based sealant.

Prevention measures

Preventing sulphuric acid stains on granite countertops primarily involves avoiding spills. If a spill occurs, rinse it off immediately with plenty of water. Additionally, always use gloves when handling any acidic substances and ensure a clean and safe environment.

Final Note – Make Cleaning a Daily Habit

Reversing the effects of acid stains on granite countertops may initially seem daunting, but it can be easily achieved with some DIY know-how and the right materials. However, prevention is key. By adopting the preventive measures outlined in this article as daily habits, you can minimize the occurrence of acid stains on your granite countertop. With diligence and care, your granite countertop will retain its pristine appearance for years to come.