How to Remove Oil Stains From Ceramic Countertops

Ceramic countertops are a popular choice for modern kitchens and bathrooms, celebrated for their durability, style, and resistance to heat and scratches. They bring a sleek, polished look to any space.

However, despite their resilience, they are not completely immune to stains. Oily substances, if left unattended, can seep into the porous surface and leave behind stubborn, unsightly marks. This can be frustrating, especially after you’ve invested in maintaining a beautiful kitchen.

Fortunately, with the right approach and a little bit of effort, you can effectively remove these oil stains and restore your countertops to their original, pristine condition. This guide on how to remove oil stains from ceramic countertops will walk you through everything you need to know, from the necessary supplies to a detailed step-by-step process.

What Will You Need?

Before you begin, gather the following materials. Having everything on hand will make the process much smoother.

• Baking soda
• Water
• A small bowl
• A spoon or spatula for mixing
• Plastic wrap
• Masking tape or painter’s tape
• A soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works well)
• A plastic scraper or putty knife
• A clean, soft cloth or microfiber towel
• pH-neutral stone cleaner or mild dish soap
• Warm water

10 Easy Steps on How to Remove Oil Stains From Ceramic Countertops

Removing oil stains requires a specific technique that pulls the oil out of the ceramic. This method, known as creating a poultice, is highly effective. Follow these steps carefully for the best results.

Step 1: Immediately Blot the Spill

The most critical first step is to act quickly. As soon as you notice an oil spill, grab a dry, clean cloth or paper towel and gently blot the area. Do not wipe or scrub, as this can spread the oil and push it deeper into the pores of the ceramic. Your goal is simply to absorb as much of the excess oil from the surface as possible. Quick action can significantly reduce the severity of the stain and make the subsequent cleaning process much easier. Even if the stain has already set, it’s good practice to give the area a quick blot to remove any residual surface oil before you proceed with deeper cleaning methods.

Step 2: Prepare the Cleaning Area

Before applying any cleaning solution, you need to prepare the surface. Clear the countertop of all appliances, dishes, and other items to give yourself plenty of room to work. Next, clean the stained area with a bit of mild dish soap and warm water. Use a soft cloth to gently wash away any surface dirt, crumbs, or grime that may have accumulated over the oil stain. This ensures that you are treating the oil itself, not just a layer of dirt on top of it. Rinse the area thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue and then pat it dry with another clean towel. A clean starting point is essential for the poultice to work effectively.

Step 3: Create the Baking Soda Poultice

Now it’s time to create the cleaning agent. In your small bowl, combine baking soda and water to form a thick paste. The ideal consistency is similar to that of peanut butter or thick cake frosting. It should be thick enough to spread without running but wet enough to stay moist. Start by putting a generous amount of baking soda in the bowl (about half a cup should be sufficient for a small stain) and then slowly add water, mixing as you go. Add the water a little at a time to avoid making the mixture too thin. If you accidentally add too much water, simply mix in more baking soda until you achieve the right consistency. This baking soda paste will act as a poultice, drawing the oil out of the ceramic.

Step 4: Apply the Poultice to the Stain

Using your spoon or spatula, apply the baking soda paste directly onto the oil stain. Be generous with the application. The layer should be about a quarter-inch thick and should extend about an inch beyond the edges of the visible stain. This ensures that the poultice covers the entire affected area, including any oil that may have spread invisibly under the surface. Make sure the paste is applied evenly and completely covers the stain. Do not rub the paste in; simply spread it over the top. The poultice works through a process of absorption, and a thick, even layer is key to its success.

Step 5: Cover the Poultice with Plastic Wrap

Once the poultice is applied, cover it completely with a piece of plastic wrap. The purpose of the plastic wrap is to keep the paste moist, which is crucial for the cleaning process to work. A dry poultice will stop drawing out the oil. Press the plastic wrap down gently over the paste to ensure it makes good contact and seals the area. Make sure the plastic wrap also extends beyond the edges of the poultice. This creates a humid environment underneath, allowing the baking soda to work its magic for an extended period. This step prevents the paste from drying out too quickly and maximizes its stain-lifting power.

Step 6: Secure the Plastic Wrap with Tape

To ensure the plastic wrap stays in place and the poultice remains sealed, use masking tape or painter’s tape to secure the edges of the plastic wrap to the countertop. Tape down all four sides, creating an airtight seal. This prevents air from getting in and drying out the paste. A secure seal is especially important if the countertop is in a high-traffic area or if you need to leave the poultice on for a long time. This simple step ensures the poultice remains effective throughout the entire duration of the treatment, giving you the best chance of completely removing the stubborn oil stain.

Step 7: Let the Poultice Sit and Work

This is where patience comes in. The poultice needs time to draw the oil out of the ceramic. You should leave it undisturbed for at least 24 hours. For older or more stubborn stains, you might need to leave it for up to 48 hours. During this time, the moisture in the paste helps to dissolve the oil, and the baking soda then absorbs the dissolved oil, pulling it out of the pores of the countertop. You may notice the poultice changing color as it absorbs the oil. Resist the temptation to peek under the plastic wrap, as this can break the seal and disrupt the process.

Step 8: Remove the Poultice

After 24 to 48 hours, it’s time to remove the poultice. Carefully peel off the tape and lift the plastic wrap. The baking soda paste will likely be dry and hard. Use your plastic scraper or putty knife to gently scrape away the dried paste. Be careful not to use a metal scraper, as it can scratch your ceramic countertop. Work slowly and apply gentle pressure to lift the hardened paste off the surface. Once you have removed the bulk of the poultice, you can use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away any remaining residue.

Step 9: Clean and Inspect the Area

With the poultice removed, it’s time for the final cleanup. Mix a solution of pH-neutral cleaner or mild dish soap with warm water. Use a soft cloth dipped in this solution to wash the area where the poultice was applied. This will remove any leftover baking soda residue and lingering oil. After washing, rinse the area thoroughly with a clean cloth dampened with plain water. Finally, dry the countertop completely with a microfiber towel. Once dry, inspect the area carefully. The stain should be gone or significantly lighter.

Step 10: Repeat if Necessary

For deep-set or particularly stubborn oil stains, one application may not be enough. If you can still see a faint mark after the first treatment, don’t be discouraged. Simply repeat the process from Step 3. Create a fresh batch of baking soda poultice, apply it to the remaining stain, cover it, and let it sit for another 24 hours. Some tough stains require two or three applications before they are completely gone. Patience is key, but this method is highly effective and will eventually restore your countertop’s flawless finish.

5 Things You Should Avoid

To keep your ceramic countertops looking their best, avoid these common mistakes when dealing with oil stains:

1. Using Harsh Chemicals: Avoid acidic or alkaline cleaners, such as vinegar, lemon juice, or ammonia. These can damage the sealant and etch the surface of the ceramic.
2. Scrubbing with Abrasive Pads: Never use steel wool, scouring powders, or abrasive sponges. These will scratch the countertop and dull its finish, making it more susceptible to future staining.
3. Wiping, Not Blotting: When an oil spill occurs, always blot it gently. Wiping smears the oil around and can push it deeper into the material’s pores, making the stain harder to remove.
4. Applying Heat: Do not use a hairdryer or heat gun to try and dry the oil or the poultice. Heat can cause the oil to set deeper into the ceramic and may even cause thermal shock, potentially cracking the countertop.
5. Letting Spills Sit: The longer an oil spill sits, the deeper it penetrates. Clean up spills as soon as they happen to prevent them from becoming stubborn stains that require extensive effort to remove.

Conclusion

Oil stains on your beautiful ceramic countertops can be a discouraging sight, but they are not a permanent problem.

By following this guide on how to remove oil stains from ceramic countertops, you can effectively lift and remove even the most stubborn marks. Remember to gather your materials, act with patience, and avoid common cleaning pitfalls.

With a little care and the right technique, you can easily restore your countertops to their spotless, elegant state and keep your kitchen looking its best for years to come.