Removing Dye Stains from Countertops

Counters are great items to have around the home and office for use as work spaces. Since they were created to use for working, there seems to be an almost uncanny ability for these countertops to collect stains. Some of the most difficult stains to remove are the various kinds of dye stains that crop up from time to time. In the bathroom, it can often be hair dye. In the kitchen it can often be clothing dye or food dye...well, you get the idea.

Here are some wonderful items that you can use to help remove the dye stains. Even better, each of these items can be found in most homes. What this means is that you are going to be able to remove dye stains without spending a whole lot of money.

• Hydrogen peroxide. One of the best ways to get rid of organic dye stains (like henna) is hydrogen peroxide. However, caution needs to be used when employing this method. Apply some hydrogen peroxide onto a cotton ball. Gently rub, in a circular motion, beginning from the inside out.
• Baking soda. Create a paste out of baking soda and water. This paste should be similar to the consistency and appearance of toothpaste. Gently rub the paste onto the stain and allow it to sit on the stain for at least an hour. When that time has elapsed, use a damp soft cloth or sponge and wipe or gently scrub the stain off.
• Rubbing alcohol. Pour some undiluted rubbing alcohol onto a soft piece of cloth, like a sponge, and gently scrub the stain away. Start as near the center of the stain as you can, and work your way outwards. Use as much alcohol as you need, and repeat the process as often as necessary to remove the stain.
• Vinegar. As with rubbing alcohol, pour a little white vinegar onto a soft cloth and gently wipe or scrub until the stain begins to fade. You may have to rinse out the cloth a few times, but don't worry. Simply pour a little more white vinegar onto the cloth and repeat as necessary.

Whenever you remove any stains, but particularly a dye stain, do not use something that is going to leave scratches or damage the countertops in some way. As such, do not use a scrubby, steel wool, or anything that is a harsh abrasive. Harsh abrasives will leave scratches, even if they are minute, that will create an area of your counter more likely to attract stains in the future.