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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.

If you would rather use vinegar to clean the stone fireplace instead of dish soap, this mixture should work fine. Vinegar is slightly acidic, however, so it may etch some kinds of stone without quite a bit of diluting. For a stone fireplace, dilute it to about one cup of vinegar for every gallon of hot water. It’s a smart idea to test the diluted mixture in an inconspicuous area of the fireplace and watch for etching. You can use vinegar to clean quite a few different items around your home, and it’s especially good at removing stains.

Yes, limestone often turns yellow over time when improperly cared for. The stone contains natural iron deposits, which can oxidize when exposed to water, acids, or harsh chemicals, such as bleach. Without exposure to water or chemicals, limestone should not turn yellow. Always seal limestone countertops to protect them from moisture, and only use gentle cleansers designed for stone.

Silestone® isn’t recommended for outdoor use because UV rays can damage the surface. Long-term exposure to direct sunlight can cause discoloration. Instead, choose an outdoor-friendly countertop material like tile, concrete, stainless steel, or natural stone. If you do choose a natural stone, make sure you either seal it or avoid highly porous stones. For example, choose soapstone over marble.