Stone backsplashes are a beautiful addition to any kitchen. However, their porous nature makes them prone to grease buildup over time. Grease stains not only look unsightly but can also lead to bacteria growth if left untreated. Fortunately, you can get grease out of stone backsplash using some simple cleaning methods and ingredients commonly found at home.
What Causes Grease Stains on Stone Backsplashes?
Grease stains occur on stone backsplashes due to:
- Cooking oils splattering on the backsplash during food preparation
- Residue from greasy foods sticking to the stone surface
- Smoke and grease released during cooking getting deposited over time
- Hand and fingerprints along with dirt buildup trapping grease on the stone
Stone materials like granite, marble, travertine, limestone etc. are porous, which allows the grease to seep into the microscopic pits and holes within the stone. This makes grease stains difficult to remove compared to non-porous surfaces like ceramic tile.
How to Clean Grease from Stone Backsplash
Cleaning grease from stone backsplashes requires a bit of patience and using the right cleaning solutions. Here are some effective methods you can try at home:
1. Use a Degreasing Cleaner
Specialized degreasing cleaners designed for stone are very effective at breaking down oil and grease. Some popular options are:
- Granite & Stone Cleaner: Spray this cleaner directly onto the stained area, let sit for 5-10 minutes and wipe clean with a soft cloth.
- Citrus Degreaser: Made from citrus extracts, this helps cut through tough oil and grease buildup. Apply using a sponge, let sit briefly and rinse.
- Dish Soap: Mix a few drops of dish soap like Dawn with warm water in a spray bottle. Spritz on backsplash, let sit for 5 mins and wipe clean.
2. Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda is mildly abrasive so it can lift grease without damaging the stone. Make a paste with 3 parts baking soda and 1 part water. Using a soft cloth, gently rub the paste onto the stains in a circular motion. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with water and drying with a towel.
3. Vinegar Solution
White vinegar helps dissolve greasy residue. Make a cleaning solution by mixing 1 part white vinegar with 1 part warm water. Use a sponge to apply the solution onto the greasy areas. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes before wiping clean with a soft cloth.
4. Rubbing Alcohol
Its solvent properties make isopropyl alcohol effective at breaking down oil and grease. Dip a soft cloth in undiluted rubbing alcohol and rub gently onto the stain. Once the grease is lifted, wipe the area clean with a damp cloth.
5. Steam Cleaning
For extensive grease staining, use a handheld steam cleaner on the backsplash. The heat and steam help loosen baked-on grease and oil. Wipe the area with a microfiber cloth immediately after steaming to remove the grease.
Tips to Prevent Grease Buildup on Stone Backsplashes
Preventing grease staining is easier than removing it. Here are some useful tips:
- Use exhaust fans while cooking to minimize oil splatters on the backsplash
- Immediately wipe any oil drips or spills to avoid residue buildup
- Clean the backsplash 1-2 times a week using a degreasing cleaner
- Use a protective stone sealer to shield the backsplash from grease absorption
- Avoid harsh cleaners and abrasive pads that can strip the stone’s sealant
- Rinse dishes well before placing them in the sink to limit food grease splashing on the backsplash
How to Remove Specific Grease Stains from Stone Backsplash
The cleaning method can vary slightly depending on the type of staining:
Bacon Grease Stains
- Scrape off any large bits of bacon residue gently using a plastic spatula.
- Apply a few drops of dish soap onto the grease spots and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Use a damp microfiber cloth and rub the area in circular motions to lift the bacon grease.
- Rinse with clean water and dry the surface thoroughly.
Cooking Oil Stains
- Blot excess oil immediately using paper towels to prevent seeping into stone.
- Make a paste with baking soda and water and scrub onto the stain gently.
- For tough stains, spray with degreasing cleaner and let sit for 10-15 minutes before wiping clean.
Cheese or Butter Stains
- Heat 1 cup white vinegar until warm and dip a cloth into it. Place the cloth over the greasy stain.
- As the stone absorbs the heat, it will draw the butter or cheese grease to the surface.
- Once cooled, use a clean damp cloth to wipe away the lifted grease.
Salad Dressing Stains
- Apply some undiluted lemon juice onto the stain and allow to sit for 3-5 minutes.
- Use a nylon scrub brush and rub gently to lift the oil-based dressing stain.
- Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a soft towel.
Grease Stain Troubleshooting Tips
- If using vinegar, baking soda or citrus solutions, rinse backsplash thoroughly after cleaning to prevent etching.
- For stains that have set in, repeat the cleaning process 2-3 times to remove all the grease from the stone pores.
- If stains persist even after multiple cleaning attempts, consider polishing the stones using a granite polishing compound.
- Avoid harsh bleach, alkali cleaners, or abrasive pads as these can damage many stone surfaces.
- Always test cleaners in an inconspicuous spot first to check for possible discoloration or damage.
- If stains are recurrent, consider sealing the backsplash again using a good quality stone sealer.
Following these grease removal techniques and regularly cleaning your backsplash can help maintain its appearance and prevent permanent staining over time. Be patient when treating tougher stains and use mild cleaners to protect the integrity of the stone. With some diligence, you can keep your kitchen backsplash looking sparkling clean.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Grease from Stone Backsplashes
What is the fastest way to remove grease stains from stone backsplash?
Using a degreasing cleaner specifically formulated for stone is the quickest method. The strong solvents in these commercial cleaners can dissolve oil and grease rapidly from stone surfaces when applied correctly.
Does toothpaste remove grease from stone?
Yes, toothpaste can work to remove grease stains from stone backsplashes. The abrasives in toothpaste can help lift grease from the stone pores. Use a non-gel toothpaste, apply directly onto the stain, allow to sit briefly before rinsing and drying the area thoroughly.
What removes old grease stains from stone?
Baking soda mixed with water into a spreadable paste is effective for removing old, stubborn grease stains from stone. Apply the paste and let it sit for 20-30 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing away. The mild abrasive action of baking soda dissolves the greasy residue.
Does bleach remove grease stains from stone?
Bleach is too harsh to use on stone surfaces as it can discolor, pit, and damage the material. Acidic cleaners like lemon juice, vinegar or commercial stone cleaners are safer grease removers for stone backsplashes.
Is Windex good for cleaning stone backsplash?
Windex and other glass cleaners contain ammonia which can stain, streak or etch certain stones. It’s best to avoid Windex and instead use a specially formulated stone-safe cleaner. Check the stone manufacturer’s care guide before using any cleaning product.
How do you maintain a stone backsplash?
- Seal granite, marble or other porous stones annually to prevent staining
- Use microfiber cloths and avoid abrasive scouring pads
- Rinse soap residue thoroughly after cleaning
- Stick to stone-safe cleaners instead of multi-surface cleaners
- Dry any spills or splatters quickly to avoid buildup
- Clean backsplash routinely to prevent grease buildup over time
Does vinegar damage stone backsplash?
Straight undiluted vinegar can etch certain acid-sensitive stones like marble or limestone. However, when diluted with water, it is generally safe for cleaning most stone surfaces. Rinse the surface with water after cleaning with vinegar solution to prevent any possible etching.
What is the best homemade stone backsplash cleaner?
An effective homemade cleaner is:
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 tbsp dish soap
- Warm water
Mix the ingredients in a spray bottle. Spritz over the stone backsplash and wipe clean with a soft cloth for a streak-free shine.
Conclusion
Grease stains don’t have to be permanent headaches for your precious stone backsplash. With some gentle cleaning methods and safe ingredients like dish soap, baking soda, or vinegar, you can effectively tackle the oil and grease buildup. Just be cautious of harsh chemicals and abrasives that can damage the stone. Set up a regular maintenance routine to keep grease from accumulating and absorbing into the backsplash. Roll up your sleeves, gather some basic supplies, and those pesky grease stains will be history in your beautiful kitchen backsplash.