How do you fix a discolored countertop?

Author: Lura Bogisich MD  |  Last update: Monday, November 10, 2025

Make a paste made of baking soda and warm water. Allow the paste to rest for 5 to 10 minutes, then scrub into the countertop stain very gently. Baking soda is abrasive, and hard or prolonged scrubbing may damage some materials. Rinse with warm water and a reusable cleaning cloth.

How to fix countertop discoloration?

Make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain and let sit for five minutes, then rinse off with a soft cloth. Baking soda is a mild abrasive, so don't scrub. Repeat if necessary.

How do I make my countertops look new again?

You can use a commercial polishing compound or make your own using baking soda and water. Apply your polish with a solid cloth using rub down your countertop using circular motions. Once you have applied the polish, start wiping away any excess with a clean cloth.

Why is my countertop discolored?

The use of harsh cleaning agents or acidic substances can alter the chemical composition of the granite's surface, leading to discoloration or dark spots.

How can I resurface my countertops without replacing them?

One option is to use a countertop refinishing kit, which typically includes a bonding primer, decorative chips, and a topcoat. These kits are available in a variety of colors and can be found at home improvement stores. Another option is to use an epoxy coating, which can provide a durable, long-lasting finish.

Restore a Bleached or Faded Laminate Countertop - Rejuvenate

Can you rejuvenate laminate countertops?

You can repair your chipped and aging laminate countertops using simple techniques and, in some cases, common household products you probably have around the house. If you're looking to give your countertops a whole new look but are watching your budget, you can completely transform them for less than $300.

How can I change the color of my countertop?

  1. Step 1: Decide If It's Worth the Risk. If you like your existing countertops enough to live with them, you might want to pause before grabbing a can of paint. ...
  2. Step 2: Choose the Right Paint. ...
  3. Step 3: Prepare the Surface. ...
  4. Step 4: Coat the Surface with Primer. ...
  5. Step 5: Apply Paint. ...
  6. Step 6: Seal with a Top Coat or Resin.

How do I make my countertops white again?

Dilute household bleach with warm water according to the directions on the bleach. Wipe the countertops down with the solution using a reusable cleaning cloth. Rinse with warm water and a fresh cloth.

What does granite etching look like?

If the discoloration appears to be lighter in color (may look like “water spots” or “water rings”), it is probably an etch mark.

Can discolored granite be fixed?

Fortunately, the majority of discoloration, dullness, or staining issues are related to water and typically affect only the surface of the stone. These problems can be prevented with proper care and resolved with the right techniques.

Is resurfacing a countertop worth it?

The fact is that countertop refinishing can be a great way to transform the look of your kitchen, bathroom, or bar without breaking the bank. Refinishing can allow you to restore and preserve your current countertops without the mess, hassle, and expense of tearing them out and replacing them.

How to restore faded formica?

Again, the most practical way to clean and polish your counter or tabletop is with a dry, clean, non-abrasive microfiber cloth and a little elbow grease. You can also use Hope's Perfect Countertop spray and wipe wax to polish Formica® laminate and give it an extra shine.

How to fix discoloured laminate?

For minor surface discolouration caused by stains or build-up, try cleaning the area with a mixture of water and vinegar (one part vinegar to three parts water). Use a soft cloth to apply the solution, gently buffing out the stain. Avoid saturating the floor with water, as this can worsen the discolouration.

Can you repair a damaged countertop?

Most hardware stores carry a plastic laminate repair paste. The tube will set you back between $5 and $20, depending on the brand and the style of your countertop. Laminate repair pastes are best for chips, holes, and scratches that only measure a few inches but stand out like a sore thumb.

How to remove discoloration from quartz countertops?

Tea, coffee or fruit juice can stain quartz worktops if left for too long. To remove the stain, use a three parts baking soda, one part water solution. Apply the solution onto the countertop and let sit for a few minutes, after which you can gently rub with a soft cloth and wipe away.

Can etching be fixed?

Minor etch marks can be a DIY project if you want them to be. Stone polishes and etch removers are available for sale, and they're created specifically to restore shine and color. To apply, you'll need to rub it on using just a bit of pressure with a soft microfiber cloth.

Does vinegar etch granite?

Vinegar is made up of acids that can severely harm your granite. Even if it is diluted, vinegar may still leave acids on your granite countertops. This can cause your natural stone countertops to etch. You can tell that your granite countertops have begun to etch by seeing a small ring or some sign of a watermark.

What does fake granite look like?

Check Out the Color and Pattern

If the color appears same throughout the surface or the pattern repeats exactly, it is manmade. Also, while granite does appear in many colors, grays and browns predominate. Very bright or unusual colors, bold or repeating patterns almost always indicate fake granite.

How do you revive old countertops?

6 Easy Ways to Refresh Old Kitchen Countertops Without Tearing Them Out
  1. Reorganize Countertops.
  2. Consider a Kit.
  3. Try Contact Paper.
  4. Stain Countertops.
  5. Reseal Countertops.
  6. Redecorate Countertops.

Does white vinegar clean countertops?

Instead of an all-purpose or floor cleaner, use a diluted vinegar mix to clean countertops, floors, and other kitchen surfaces. For counters, use the 1-to-1 water and vinegar in a spray bottle. It works on most appliance surfaces as well, including refrigerator interiors, plastic, and glass.

How to remove iodine stain from countertop?

Mix dishwashing detergent in hot water and swish to make a great volume of suds. Dip a cloth in only the foam and apply to the iodine stain. Rinse with a clean cloth moistened with clear water. Polish or wax as soon as possible.

How to change the look of a counter top?

Break Out the Paint

It's a quick, easy way to update linoleum countertops, and the entire project will cost you well under $100. All you need is sandpaper, painting supplies, a paint of choice, and a sealer.

Can you change the color of solid surface countertops?

You can paint the Corian to a different color, and yes it can be practical. Corian is made up from a thick liquid solution of resins and pigments that is chemically reacted, then cast into a mold to create a solid material. I recommend using a high quality two component epoxy paint to the counter top.

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