Counter Top Issues
Wednesday, January 21st, 2009
Back on January 12th I asked you to send me a question or pose a housing related issue you would like to discuss. I received this question from Stacie about her new counter top …
Hi Steve,
I’ve got a new counter top and it keeps getting these white stains on it and I have no idea from what. It’s really noticeable and it won’t wipe off. Any idea how to remove the stains or if its a defective counter?
Stacie
Well Stacie, there could be a number of issues that may cause “white stains” on you new counter top. It would be helpful to know what material your counter top is made of, and whether you have any plants or food material stored in the area of the stain. But let me give you some general suggestions to get started.
Before trying to clean any counter top, always check with the manufacturer for a list of “safe” products to try for removing stains, as well as recommendations on sealing the material. (Note: do not use a sealer over an existing stain you want to remove!)
The key in stain removal is identifying what may be causing it. In what locations are the stains occurring? Do they take on a consistent shape or appearance? Is the stain near a plant, food service area or an area where cosmetics are used? Sometimes, an accumulation of hard water can create a white stain. The hard water stain can be buffed out with Steel Wool #0000.
I would also like to refer you to the Marble Institute of America, which addresses care for multiple types of natural stone surfaces. On their web site, you can find their consumer resources information by following this link.
I hope this information helps.
