Step 1: Identify the Stain
- Oil-based: cooking oil, ghee, cosmetics — darken the stone.
- Organic: tea, coffee, haldi, fruit, leaves — pink, brown or yellow marks.
- Metal/rust: orange-brown marks from tins and iron.
- Ink and dye: pens, markers, hair dye, mehndi.
- Water: dark patches (absorption) or white rings (minerals).
- Biological: mould and mildew in damp areas.
- Etching (marble only): dull spots — not a stain, needs polishing.
Step 2: Choose the Poultice
| Stain | Granite | Marble |
|---|---|---|
| Oil | Baking soda + water or acetone | Baking soda + water |
| Organic | Baking soda + hydrogen peroxide | Baking soda + hydrogen peroxide (light marble) |
| Rust | Stone-safe rust remover | Marble-safe rust remover |
| Ink | Alcohol or acetone | Hydrogen peroxide (light) / acetone (dark) |
| Mould | Diluted hydrogen peroxide | Diluted hydrogen peroxide |
Step 3: Apply the Poultice
- Clean the area and let it dry.
- Mix the poultice to a thick paste.
- Spread it about 5 mm thick, slightly beyond the stain.
- Cover with plastic wrap and tape the edges; poke a few holes.
- Leave for 24–48 hours until dry.
- Scrape off with a plastic spatula.
- Rinse and dry.
- Repeat if the stain is lighter but not gone.
Step 4: Reseal
Once the stain is removed and the stone is dry, reseal the area.
What Not to Do
- Do not use vinegar or lemon on marble or granite.
- Do not scrub with abrasive powders.
- Do not mix bleach with ammonia.
- Do not use general rust removers on marble.
When to Call a Professional
Deep, old or widespread stains, rust in marble, or stains combined with etching may need professional treatment. FB Marble offers stain removal and restoration in Lahore.
Talk to FB Marble
FB Marble & Granite has supplied and installed natural stone across Pakistan since 2001. Visit our showroom at 51 Y Jamun, Bedian Road, near the DHA Phase 5-6 Interchange, Lahore, or WhatsApp +92 323 4148908 with your measurements for a free quote. Browse our granite, marble, quartz, porcelain and onyx collections on fbmarble.com.
