QUESTION

Coffee Stain in Stone - I have granite kitchen tops (which have been sealed). a large (12" square) coffee spill sat on the counter, un-noticed, for several weeks, while we were away. It left a very noticeable, mottled stain. Any suggestions? thank you

ANSWER

ANSWER - Even though you sealed your granite counter top it doesn't prevent staining if the coffee spill was left on for an excessive amount of time or if it wasn't cleaned completely. The stain should be removable. You can either employee a professional stone restoration company to do it for you who has experience or you can try yourself with caution.

The Marble Institute of America (MIA) states in their design manual that "Organic Stains, such as those caused by coffee, tea, tobacco, paper, food, urine, leaves, bark, and bird droppings may cause a pinkish-brown stain. For indoor stone stains, clean with 12% hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia."

There area also stain removers for stone called Poultices, which is a chemical or mixture of chemicals combined with an absorbent material, forming a thick paste. It is spread over the stain and left to draw out the stain into the absorbent material for 24 to 48 hours. You can purchase the poultices from one of the companies listed on our website in the resources and links section under Cleaners and Sealers.
Good Luck!