Removing Oil Stains From Marble

Marble is one of the most luxurious choices for countertops and tabletops. However, it also requires special care. Oil can penetrate the porous surface and unattractive stains. To avoid damaging the surface, use these simple steps to remove oil stains from marble and keep your kitchen clean.

Use Corn Starch to Remove Oil-Based Splatters on Marble Surfaces

The best way to remove oil-based stains is to catch them quickly. If you spot a recent oil-based stain on a marble surface, attempt to clean it with corn starch. Corn starch can lift oil-based stains and grease off the marble surface if the stain has not had the chance to penetrate the marble too deeply.

Sprinkle corn starch on the affected area and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. Wipe the marble clean with a cloth to clean up the corn starch and stain.

Attempt to Lift the Oil Stain with a Soapy Mixture

Oil from peanut butter, cosmetics, creams, and other oil-based products can darken the surface of a marble counter. To remove these stains, you first need to attempt to draw the oil out of the marble.

Combine liquid dish detergent with a few drops of acetone or ammonia. Spray the soapy mixture over the affected area and allow to sit for at least 15 minutes. Blot the mixture with paper towels to lift as much of the oil-based stain as you can. Some or all the oil may transfer to the paper towel.

Use a DIY Cleaning Paste to Remove Oil Stains

If the oil stains remain after attempting to lift them with soap and paper towels, try using a homemade cleaning paste. Combine baking soda with several drops of water. Continue adding water until you have a spreadable pasty mixture.

Instead of baking soda and water, you can use liquid soap and flour. Use about a cup of flour combined with several tablespoons of liquid dish soap. Add more dish soap as needed to achieve the right consistency. The paste should have the consistency of yogurt or sour cream. Spread the mixture over the marble surface and cover with plastic wrap. Allow the mixture to sit for at least 24 hours.

As the paste starts to dry, it should lift more of the oil out of the marble. After the paste has completely dried, rinse it off with warm water, mild soap, and a clean cloth.

Avoid Using Vinegar or Lemon Juice to Clean Oil Stains

Vinegar and lemon juice are commonly used for home cleaning tasks. However, both ingredients are highly acidic, which can stain marble surfaces. Baking soda, liquid dish soap, water, and small amounts of ammonia and acetone are suitable for use on marble.

You should also avoid scrubbing the surface, as scrubbing may damage the marble and make the stains more difficult to remove. Simply use one of the cleaning solutions described, allow it to set, and then blot or wipe the marble.

Along with these home cleaning suggestions, you should ensure that your marble surfaces are sealed properly. Applying a sealant every few months helps protect against staining, allowing you to wipe most spills and accidents without further stain removal steps.

Author Profile

Mark Wisken

Mark is a managing director at Optima Cleaners, but copywriting has been one of his passions for many years. When he's not hunched over his keyboard, you'll find Mark exploring quaint bookstores for inspiration or sipping espresso at his favorite local café, always on the hunt for the next big idea to ignite a brand's success. With a pen in one hand and a coffee cup in the other, Mark continues to captivate audiences and breathe life into every brand he touches.

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