Granite countertops are a beautiful addition to any kitchen, but they can be vulnerable to staining. One of the most common types of stains on granite is rust. Rust stains can be difficult to remove, and if left untreated, they can become permanent.
Luckily, there are a few methods you can use to help get rid of rust stains on your granite countertops. So keep reading to learn more about how to remove rust from granite.
Can You Remove Rust from Granite?
Rust is generally extremely difficult to remove from materials, requiring powerful chemical cleaners or strong abrasives. Fortunately, granite is resistant to rust and can usually avoid any damage caused by rusting metals. It is possible, however, for steel or iron-based items placed on or near the granite surface to cause rust formation.
In this situation, you’ll need a product that is specifically designed to remove rust safely without damaging the stone surface. For example, you may want to consider a poultice powder that soaks up and draws out unwanted rust spots without harming your granite countertop or floor.
These products must be used carefully as some contain acidic compounds, which can further dull the smooth polish of the granite if not adequately covered by the poultice in an even layer. However, with safety in mind and proper use of these products, you can maintain your beautiful granite surfaces and keep them rust-free for many years!
Why Should You Remove Rust from Granite?
Rust can damage the granite and cause it to appear dull and lackluster. Therefore, removing rust from granite as soon as it is noticed is important to preserve its natural look.
Not only does removing rust help keep the integrity of your granite, but it also protects you and your family against the chemicals released from corroding metal and bacteria that can accumulate over time.
With a few simple steps and the right products, rust can be lifted from your granite surfaces quickly and efficiently, leaving behind a beautiful, shiny surface.
6 Methods to Follow on How to Remove Rust from Granite
Method 1: Baking Soda and Lemon Juice Paste
One of the gentlest cleaning methods is baking soda and lemon juice paste. Start by mixing equal parts baking soda and lemon juice in a bowl until you have a thick paste-like consistency.
Take a damp cloth or sponge, dip it into the paste and apply it directly onto the stain. Rub gently for about 5 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Repeat as necessary until the stain is removed.
Method 2: Oxygenated Bleach Solution
If the baking soda and lemon juice mixture do not work or the stain is particularly stubborn, you may need to use an oxygenated bleach solution. Mix 2 tablespoons of oxygenated bleach powder with 2 cups of water in a spray bottle, then shake well until all the powder is dissolved.
Spray this solution onto the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth or sponge. Rinse with clean water after each wipe down until all residue has been removed and dried off with a soft towel afterward.
Method 3: WD-40 & Steel Wool Pad
For tougher stains, you can try using WD-40 and steel wool pads. Start by spraying WD-40 on top of the stain, then take a steel wool pad and rub gently in circular motions over it for about 5 minutes or until all residue has been lifted off the surface area.
Wipe away with a damp cloth or sponge afterward, then rinse with warm water to remove any remaining residue from the countertop’s surface area before drying off with a soft towel afterward.
Method 4: White Vinegar and Baking Soda
If the stain still persists after using the above methods, you can try white vinegar and baking soda paste. For this method, mix three parts baking soda to one part white vinegar until it forms a thick paste. Once you have your paste, spread it over the rust stain and allow it to sit for up to 30 minutes before scrubbing with a damp cloth. Then, rinse the area thoroughly with water, and the rust stain should be gone!
Method 5: Commercial Rust Remover
If all else fails, you may need to use a commercial rust remover such as CLR or Iron Out. These products are specifically designed to remove rust from stone surfaces. Be sure to read and follow the directions on the package carefully, as these products can cause damage if not used correctly.
Protect your skin, eyes, and lungs when dealing with chemicals by wearing gloves, goggles, and a mask. Apply the product according to the instructions and wait for it to loosen the rust. Once it has loosened, you can scrub it off with a nylon brush or steel wool pad. Be sure to rinse the stone thoroughly after treatment and allow it to dry before applying the sealer.
Method 6: Pumice Stone
Using a pumice stone is one of the most effective ways to remove rust from granite surfaces. Start by wetting the affected area with warm water and then gently rub the pumice stone on the rust stain.
The pumice stone should be moved in circular motions and continue rubbing until the rust has been removed. Once finished, rinse off the affected area with clean water and dry it off to prevent future staining. With this method, you can remove rust from granite quickly and easily.
With these six methods, you can easily learn how to remove rust from granite countertops! Remember to be gentle when cleaning, as harsh chemicals or abrasive solutions may damage your granite surface. If you have any doubts about how to proceed, always consult a professional for advice.
Things You Need to Know Before Removing Rust from Granite
Removing rust from granite is a delicate job that requires you to have a solid understanding of the material and specialist products. Therefore, before tackling the task, it’s important to learn about the types of rust stains and the appropriate removal methods for each.
Lastly, make sure to try any potential cleaning solutions on an inconspicuous area first to check how they affect the surface before applying them on an open spot. Even with proper cleanup, rust stains may not disappear entirely but can be lightened significantly – so long as you do your homework beforehand.
Benefits of Removing Rust from Granite
Rust can be an eyesore, especially when it occurs on delicate materials like granite. Fortunately, there’s a simple way to clean rust quickly and safely. Removing rust from granite eliminates unsightly spots and helps protect and preserve the granite surface from future rust build-up.
This process removes all the rust to leave behind a smoother finish, restoring the stone’s original beauty. Furthermore, removing rust from granite can help prevent water damage, which is important for preserving any granite surface. Removing rust from granite can ultimately enhance its aesthetic beauty and ensure that it stays looking great for years to come!
6 Common Mistakes People Make When Trying to Removing Rust from Granite
1. Not Using the Right Tools
One of the most common mistakes people make when removing rust from granite is not using the right tools. Rust can be difficult to remove, and using the wrong tools can damage the granite or worsen the problem. The best way to remove rust from granite is to use a soft cloth and a mild abrasive cleaner.
2. Not Using Enough Pressure
Another common mistake people make when removing rust from granite is not using enough pressure. Rust can be stubborn, and you may need to apply a bit of pressure to get it to budge. However, be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can damage the granite.
3. Scrubbing Too Hard
Scrubbing too hard is another mistake people often make when removing rust from granite. While you need to use some force, scrubbing too hard can damage the granite or worsen the problem. Instead, focus on using gentle circular motions and let the cleaner do most of the work.
4. Not Rinsing Properly
After you’ve removed the rust from your granite, it’s important that you rinse it off properly. If you don’t rinse away all of the cleaners, it could leave behind a residue that will attract more dirt and grime. Be sure to rinse with plenty of water until the granite is completely clean.
5. Not Drying Properly
Once you’ve rinsed away the cleaner, it’s important that you dry your granite properly. If you leave it wet, this could cause more rust to form. Use a soft cloth to dry your granite, being sure to get into all of the nooks and crannies.
6. Not Sealing Properly
Once your granite is clean and dry, it’s important that you seal it properly to protect it from future rusting. Use a quality sealer designed for use on stone surfaces and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Conclusion
Rust stains are unsightly—but they don’t have to be permanent fixtures on your granite countertops! With some patience, you can easily remove rust stains from your granite without damaging its surface or leaving behind any harsh chemicals that could cause further damage in future cleaning attempts.
Try one (or more!) of these easy methods today for spotless countertops! Thanks for reading our post about how to remove rust from granite.