How to prevent and remove stains from slate worktops?

Slate worktops are always a beautiful kitchen worktop choice. These worktops are not only known for the beauty they bring along but also for their durability, and therefore, these worktops are not just a good choice for kitchens but also for bathrooms. It is so as slate worktops offer unique natural aesthetics along with a smooth matte finish.

Yes, slate kitchen worktops add beauty to the property and are durable, but the material is highly porous, and therefore, Slate worktops are highly prone to stains of oil spills and stains from other liquids. However, some good care and maintenance of these worktops is all that is needed.

Prevention of slate worktops against stains

• Regular Sealing

In order to protect slate kitchen worktops against stains, regular sealing of the worktops is the best solution. If the worktop is installed in a high-traffic kitchen, then sealing should be done once every 6 months – to 12 months. If the kitchen is not used much, then sealing the worktop once a year would be enough.

• Immediate Spill Cleaning

Cleaning up all the spills then and there from the worktop is the best choice if one wishes to protect their slate kitchen worktops against stains.

• Coasters, trivets, and cutting boards

In order to avoid getting stains on the slate worktop, one should always use coasters, trivets, and cutting boards on the worktop surface; nothing should be placed on these surfaces directly.

• Say no to harsh cleaners

Harsh cleaners that have high levels of bleach, ammonia, or any other acidic ingredients are not fit for slate worktop cleaning if one wishes for a stain-free worktop. So, for cleaning these worktops, one should always use a pH-neutral cleaner.

Removal of stains from slate worktops

Oil-based stains

• Form a paste by mixing baking soda and water
• The paste should then be applied to the stain and should be left on the surface as it is for 30 minutes.
• After 30 mins, the surface should be dried with a damp cloth.
• The process can be repeated if needed.

Water Stains and hard water marks

• If the slate is sealed, then one should get a mixture of equal white vinegar and water. If the worktop is not sealed then one should use distilled water for the mixture.
• Next, the stain should be gently wiped with a soft cloth.
• The surface should be further rinsed with clean water and get it dried immediately.

Food and Drink Stains

• Mix hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to make a paste
• Next, it should be applied to the stain and should be left as it is for 10 – 15 mins
• One should wipe it with a damp cloth and should further rinse it well

Ink and dye stains

• Rub alcohol on a soft cloth and wipe off the stain gently
• Rinse with water and dry off then and there
• If the stain remains, then you should use the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda paste.

Author:

Alan Nussbaum

Meet Alan Nussbaum, our Sales and Marketing Manager. With almost two decades of experience, Alan’s impressive track record includes creating one of the first online stone companies in 2012 and pioneering the acceptance of cryptocurrencies in construction in 2018 before co-founding The Worktop Library with Maria.
Alan’s work is featured in numerous Stone and Home Decor magazines. In addition, he collaborates with the industry’s leading stone brands, cementing his reputation as an innovator.
Before starting a thriving career in the stone industry, Alan honed his skills by overseeing luxury fashion brands such as Burberry, Matches Fashion, and Patrick Cox. With his unique blend of experience and expertise, Alan is a true trailblazer in the stone worktop industry. His passion for delivering exceptional service is evident in every aspect of his work.