Okay, so you didn’t exactly follow your stone expert’s instructions with sealing and now you have a deep, stubborn oil-based stain on your stone. Now what? Often times a natural stone “poultice” can help bring your stone back to its original condition.

So what’s a poultice? It’s basically a soft, moist, and porous paste. The word comes from the Latin puls or pultes meaning “porridge.” In the medical field, a poultice is basically a “drawing salve” used on cuts or wounds to remove inflammation and draw out puss or contaminants. In the natural stone world, a poultice is a mixture that can actually help “reverse” the staining process.

Custom floor pattern and cabinetry by Rooms with a View; photo via Houzz

Since marble and granite are porous materials, if not treated properly, they can stain. But this is also why stains can be removed. Since the stone has literally absorbed the stain, a poultice simply re-absorbs the stain into a different material.

A poultice is something that you can easily make at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

• StoneTech 3 oz Oil Stain Remover 

• A tool for mixing and applying the poultice (such as a plastic or wooden spatula)

• A tool for removing the poultice (a brush)

• Mineral spirits

Before you begin, make sure that the stained surface is clean, dry, and free of waxes and coatings. Using a plastic or wooden spatula, stir the ingredients thoroughly to mix. You’ll want to apply a ¼-in. thick layer of paste to the stain. (We suggest that you test a small, inconspicuous area first just to make sure that your desired result will be achieved.) Make sure the paste extends at least one to two inches beyond the edge of the stain. Leaving the paste uncovered, allow it to completely dry to a powder. This will take about two to three days. Once it’s a powder consistency, sweep it up with a dry brush and discard. Let the poultice completely dry from the stone. If the stain isn’t completely re-absorbed, repeat the process. Once the stain is removed to your liking, clean up the residue and tools with the mineral spirits.

To prevent future staining, reseal the area. We recommend using StoneTech 24oz Natural Stone Sealer, but as always, be sure to follow the advice of your stone expert. Use the above as a guide, but also be sure to follow all label instructions. Remember that regular cleaning with a neutral maintenance cleaner specially formulated for stone, such as StoneTech Revitalizer, will help keep your stone surface looking like new as the years go by.

Marble and Granite, Inc. has always remained committed to providing every piece of information from buying to maintaining natural stone products and this tradition will continue with your constant support. We welcome you to  purchase the products mentioned above and more by visiting our website.