How to Remove Rust from Granite Countertop? – 4 Methods to Do It

You can remove rust from granite countertops using granite cleanser, hydrogen peroxide, or poultice. When you’re using a cleanser, all you have to do is scrub it on the rusty area and rinse it away. When it’s hydrogen peroxide, spray it and let it sit on the spot for a day, and then rinse with water. However, if the rust is stubborn and out of your hand, then call the professionals. 🛠️

The above is just a glimpse of this article. To completely get involved in cleaning, you’ll have to learn about the ways in detail. Don’t worry, I’ve explained everything in this article. So, let’s move forward. 🧼✨

Why Does My Granite Countertop Get Rusty?

Before I get into the solution, I’m going to explain the reason you found your countertop rusty.

The formation of rust comes from water that has mixed up with iron and oxide and created a brown/red color. Most of the time, we see rust around a faucet. A very common reason can be a leaky faucet.

Again sometimes we don’t clean the countertop even after it gets into contact with water. The water sits on the surface, and time by time, it forms rust, and your granite countertop shows a rusty color.

4 Easy Methods to Remove Rust from Your Granite Countertop

This is the main segment, and by reading this segment, you’ll understand how to get a rust stain out of a granite countertop. There are generally 5 ways to do it. Before getting into the main methods, a quick overview of the methods is given below.

Method 1: Using Granite Cleanser

The first method I would suggest is by using a granite cleanser. A granite cleanser is highly effective in removing rust and stain from different kinds of stone countertops, such as granite, quartz, soapstone, and Silestone. Besides, the cleanser removes the rust without stripping off the sealer.

You can also try to clean stains from quartz countertops. However, you can read this article to clean stains from a quartz countertop properly.

Back to our topic, now let’s see how to use granite cleanser to remove rust from a granite countertop.

1. First, get the cleanser and apply it to the rusty areas following the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Now, get a nylon brush or a scrubbing pad and scrub the cleanser using a circular motion.
3. Next, rinse away the granite paste and inspect whether the rust has gone or reduced. If it’s getting lighter, then repeat the same process.
4. Finally, when the rust is gone, seal the granite perfectly.

Method 2: Trying Hydrogen Peroxide

The next method is also quite easy and effective though there are downsides. I’ll talk about this later because first, I’ll discuss how to use it.

1. Get a spray bottle and pour 4% hydrogen peroxide into it.
2. Now spray it on the rusty location.
3. Next, just like the previous method, use a nylon brush and scrub the area. Let the hydrogen peroxide sit on the rusty area for 24 hours
4. Finally, rinse away the hydrogen peroxide, and hopefully, there will be no more rust.
5. When the granite is clean, apply the sealing, and it’s done.

Method 3: Remove rust from granite with baking soda🌱

Using baking soda can be a safe and effective way to remove mild rust stains from your granite countertop. Here’s how to do it:

Materials:

• Baking soda
• Water
• Soft cloth or sponge
• Plastic wrap (optional)
• Spray bottle (optional)

Instructions:

1. Make paste: Mix baking soda with water for a peanut butter-like consistency.
2. Apply: Spread generously over rust stain, using more for stubborn stains.
3. Let sit: Leave for 15 minutes to 24 hours; cover with plastic wrap if needed.
4. Rinse and scrub: Wet cloth or sponge, scrub gently in circular motions, rinse frequently.
5. Repeat if necessary: Reapply if stain persists.
6. Rinse and dry: Clean with water, dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.

Tips:

• Test in inconspicuous area: Ensure no discoloration before applying to entire stain.
• Gentle scrubbing: Use a soft cloth or sponge to prevent scratching.
• Patience is key: Stubborn stains may require multiple applications.
• Seal granite: After removing the stain, consider resealing for future protection.

Important to avoid:

• No harsh chemicals: Avoid bleach, vinegar, or lemon juice to prevent surface damage.
• No metal tools: Avoid steel wool or abrasive tools to prevent scratching.
• No pressure washing: Avoid to prevent water forcing into the surface and causing cracks.🧽✨

Method 4: Call The Professional

If you fail after trying all of the above methods, then it’s time for you to call the professionals. It’s not actually any method. It’s a way to remove rust from granite by getting help from professionals.

Things to Keep in Mind While Removing Rust from a Granite Countertop?

This time here are some warnings for you before you get into the cleaning task. Let’s get them below.

1. Very often, we hear acidic things are helpful in removing stains and rust. It’s true, but not for natural stones like granite. It can damage the countertop to quite an extent. So, steer clear of acidic solutions such as vinegar, lemon juice, etc.
2. At the time of scrubbing, never use any metal or steel brushes. It can be disastrous for the natural stone. Its true granite countertops are highly durable and last for a long time, still, they can create scratches.
3. When you’re using hydrogen peroxide, make sure you maintain the % of the solution. Using more than ideal (3-4%) can highly damage the stones.

What If You Don’t Take Care Of the Rust?

Ignoring rust on your granite countertop isn’t harmless. In fact, it’s a costly mistake with damaging consequences. Here’s what can happen if you leave the rust unchecked:

Progressive Damage

Untreated rust worsens over time, etching deeper into the granite and causing permanent scarring. This damages the stone’s integrity and reduces its value.

Discoloration

Rust interacts with the minerals in granite, leading to unsightly discoloration. The once vibrant surface becomes dull and stained, compromising its aesthetic appeal.

Spread

Rust is like a weed, it doesn’t stay confined. It can spread across the countertop, further enlarging the damaged area and requiring potentially expensive restoration.

Remember, preventing problems is always easier and cheaper than fixing them. Taking swift action with the baking soda method I mentioned earlier can save you from these negative consequences and keep your granite countertop looking its best.

How to Prevent Rust Formation on Granite Countertops?

Once you have removed the rust from the countertop, you might not get them back again. For that, this segment is for you.

• To prevent rust on the countertop, always keep the countertop clean. After every cooking session, make sure to clean it.
• Whenever there is any water, try to wipe it as soon as possible.
• If your kitchen sink or faucet has any leakage, never be late to repair it.
• Sealing your countertop is another great way to remove rust formation on the granite countertops. In the same way, resealing is also necessary.

Last Words

I am at the end of the article, and hopefully, you are now clear – how to remove rust from granite countertop.

I’ve explained 4 methods; among them, the easiest one is using the granite cleanser. However, it’s not a guarantee the 3 DIY methods will be enough to clean the rust. If the case is the worst, don’t delay calling a professional.

And finally, I request you follow the prevention tips. To inspire you a little more, I am sharing information. If you can properly take care of your granite countertop, it can last up to 30 years or more.

Besides, You may read our popular Countertop related article;

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