How to Remove Oil Stains from Granite

Why Oil Stains Are Tricky on Granite

Granite is porous, and oil — whether from cooking, butter, lotion, or olive oil — can seep below the surface and leave a dark, greasy mark. The good news: oil stains are one of the most treatable granite stains, especially when caught early. The key is using a method that draws the oil out of the stone rather than pushing it deeper.

What You'll Need

• Baking soda — the core of the poultice method
• Dawn Platinum Dish Soap — excellent at cutting through grease
• Microfiber cleaning cloths
• Spray bottle
• Weiman Granite Cleaner
• Plastic wrap and tape

Method 1: Dish Soap (For Fresh Oil Stains)

If you catch the oil stain while it's still fresh, dish soap alone can often do the job.

1. Blot up as much oil as possible with a dry microfiber cloth. Don't rub — blot.
2. Apply a few drops of Dawn dish soap directly onto the stain.
3. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to break down the oil.
4. Gently scrub with a damp microfiber cloth in small circular motions.
5. Rinse with warm water and dry immediately.
6. Repeat if the stain is still visible.

Method 2: Baking Soda Poultice (For Set-In Oil Stains)

For oil that has already soaked into the granite, a poultice is the most effective solution. It works by drawing the oil back out of the porous stone as it dries.

1. Mix baking soda with a small amount of dish soap and just enough water to form a thick paste (like peanut butter).
2. Apply a generous ¼-inch layer of paste over the entire stain.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and seal the edges with tape to slow the drying process.
4. Leave for 24–48 hours.
5. Remove the plastic wrap and allow the paste to dry completely.
6. Gently scrape off the dried paste with a plastic scraper or your fingers.
7. Rinse the area with warm water and wipe dry.
8. Follow up with Weiman Granite Cleaner to restore shine.

Repeat if needed — deep oil stains may require 2–3 poultice applications.

What NOT to Use on Granite Oil Stains

• Vinegar or lemon juice — acidic, will etch the stone
• Bleach or ammonia — damages sealant and discolors stone
• Abrasive scrubbers — scratch the polished surface
• WD-40 or solvents — can spread the stain and damage the finish

After Treatment: Check and Reseal

Oil stains often indicate a weakened sealant. After the stain is gone, test your seal: drop a few beads of water on the surface. If they absorb within a few minutes instead of beading up, it's time to reseal with Weiman Granite Sealer. A fresh seal will prevent future oil penetration.

Preventing Oil Stains on Granite

• Always use a cutting board when working with oily foods.
• Wipe up cooking splatter immediately after it happens.
• Keep your granite sealed — a good sealant is your best defense.
• Avoid placing oily bottles (olive oil, lotion) directly on the granite surface.

Final Thoughts

Oil stains on granite look alarming but are very treatable. Fresh stains respond well to dish soap; older stains need the poultice method. Either way, patience and the right products will restore your granite to its original beauty.