Does water permanently stain granite?

• <div><p>Standing water can lead to surface discoloration if your granite countertops are improperly sealed. However, it’s possible to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-remove-hard-water-stains-kitchen-and-bathroom.htm">remove hard water stains</a> with a baking soda paste. Take more care with acidic liquids, such as fruit juice or red wine, which can leave more permanent stains. That’s why it’s so important to reseal these surfaces regularly.</p></div>

What can damage granite countertops?

• <div><p>Acid can seriously damage granite countertops and lead to etching and erosion. This is why cleaning with vinegar isn’t recommended. Other acidic items that you should keep away from your granite countertops include:</p><ul><li><p>Citrus</p></li><li><p>Acetone nail polish remover</p></li><li><p>Tomatoes</p></li><li><p>Ammonia</p></li></ul><p>In addition, always steer clear of using bleach on or around your granite as it will degrade the countertop’s sealant quickly.</p></div>

Get matched with top buffing and polishing pros in Gridley, CA

Q: Will Bar Keepers Friend remove the etching on stone counters?

• <div><p>Unfortunately, the product Bar Keepers Friend won&rsquo;t remove etching from stone countertops. In fact, it can make it worse. Bar Keepers Friend contains oxalic acid, which can cause further damage to natural stones like marble or limestone.</p></div>

Q: How long does stone polishing take?

• <div><p>Most jobs take 4-8 hours, but larger areas or heavily damaged surfaces may require multiple sessions.</p></div>

Q: How do I maintain polished stone surfaces?

• <div><p>Use pH-neutral cleaners, avoid acidic substances, and reseal porous stones periodically to maintain their finish.</p></div>

Enter your ZIP and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your buffing and polishing project in Gridley, CA?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Find Buffing and polishing pros in Gridley

Prime Mobile Detail

No reviews yet

Prime Mobile Detail

No reviews yet

Free onsite estimate

WE COME TO YOU PRIME MOBILE DETAIL (530) 517-1663 Bringing Mobile Detailing to you at your convenience AUTO'S * BOATS * TRUCKS * RV'S

Buffing and Polishing questions, answered by experts

Unfortunately, the product Bar Keepers Friend won’t remove etching from stone countertops. In fact, it can make it worse. Bar Keepers Friend contains oxalic acid, which can cause further damage to natural stones like marble or limestone.

Most jobs take 4-8 hours, but larger areas or heavily damaged surfaces may require multiple sessions.

Use pH-neutral cleaners, avoid acidic substances, and reseal porous stones periodically to maintain their finish.

Standing water can lead to surface discoloration if your granite countertops are improperly sealed. However, it’s possible to remove hard water stains with a baking soda paste. Take more care with acidic liquids, such as fruit juice or red wine, which can leave more permanent stains. That’s why it’s so important to reseal these surfaces regularly.

Acid can seriously damage granite countertops and lead to etching and erosion. This is why cleaning with vinegar isn’t recommended. Other acidic items that you should keep away from your granite countertops include:

Citrus
Acetone nail polish remover
Tomatoes
Ammonia

In addition, always steer clear of using bleach on or around your granite as it will degrade the countertop’s sealant quickly.

The homeowners guide to home care is here

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Samantha Hawrylack
•
Jul 15, 2025Jul 15, 2025
How Much Does Terrazzo Flooring Cost? [2025 Data]
Terrazzo may cost more than many other flooring options, but its longevity and high return on investment make it worthwhile.
Em Norton
•
Jun 20, 2025Jun 20, 2025
How Much Do Stained Concrete Floors Cost? [2025 Data]
Staining concrete floors can add a little something to a drab slab. Learn more about how much stained concrete floors cost and what factors impact it.
Dan Simms
•
Oct 20, 2025Oct 20, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Install Marmoleum® Flooring? [2025 Data]
Looking for a more eco-friendly flooring option? Learn how much Marmoleum® flooring costs and what factors can affect the price of installation.
Deane Biermeier
•
May 15, 2025May 15, 2025
How To Remove Baseboards in 4 Simple and Easy Steps
Learn these simple DIY tricks for how to remove baseboard trim for reuse without damaging it, the wall, or the floor.
Dan Simms
•
Mar 26, 2025Mar 26, 2025
How to Repair Laminate Flooring Water Damage: A Step-by-Step Guide
Has a leak or flood left you with ruined floors? Learn how to repair laminate flooring water damage to get your floor looking as good as new again.
Terri Beth Miller
•
Oct 20, 2025Oct 20, 2025
5 Alternatives to Baseboards That Don’t Skimp on Charm
Decorative baseboards add sophistication, but they’re often expensive. These are the best baseboard alternatives for a high-end look without the high-end price!