A harmless household item used by many could be responsible for thousands of pounds worth of kitchen damage if people do not act quickly, experts warn, here’s how to stop this from happening
Colder, rainy days are approaching as autumn arrives and experts are warning people that this unexpected household item that appears harmless could be responsible for thousands of pounds worth of kitchen counter damage.
Often most people think of certain items that can cause stains on surfaces like, red wine, or coffee or sauces. However, kitchen specialists have shared their research which shows that the reusable plastic bag is a culprit in this too.
According to experts, when a bag for life only costing 30p gets wet, the dye can transfer onto counters and worktops, seeping into the worktop surface and causing long-lasting stains and marks. This can take just a few minutes but lead to some costly damage.
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Liv Reed from Prestige Granite said: “What many don’t realise is that reusable plastic bags often use strong dyes in their design, which can easily transfer when the material becomes damp. On contact with a kitchen surface, especially porous stones such as granite, quartz or marble, the dye particles seep into tiny natural fissures and pores in the material.
“Once absorbed, these pigments bond beneath the surface. If the ink seems impossible to remove, the recommended course of action would be to first try a multi-surface spray. If that doesn’t work, a cream cleaner such as CIF or The Pink Stuff can be used, followed by Acetone if necessary.”
However, if this fails to work, “the result is a deep-set mark that doesn’t just sit on top of the counter but becomes part of it, often leaving homeowners with no option other than costly professional treatment or replacement.”
“It’s a silent risk that most households overlook, but simply leaving a wet bag for life on the worktop for a short time could trigger permanent staining, making it one of the most surprising and damaging culprits in the kitchen.”
However, Liv offers tips on how to combat these plastic bag stains:
Be quick to act
When you notice the dye transfer, use a clean, dry cloth to soak up the area where it has stained. Avoid rubbing it, as this can push the pigment into the surface deeper.
Use warm soapy water
Mix up mild washing-up liquid with warm water and gently clean the stained patch with a soft sponge or cloth. This can sometimes lift the dye before it gets into the surface.
Apply a baking soda paste
Stubborn stains may need a bit more work, so make a paste with baking soda and water. Spread it over the mark, leave it for 5-10 minutes and then gently scrub it in circular motions before rinsing it off.
Use a specialist cleaner
If the stain still does not go, use a non-abrasive stone or surface cleaner that is designed for granite, quartz, or marble. Test first on a hidden area before the bigger area, to avoid further damage.
Seek professional help if needed
Deep-set stains may call for professional treatment. Sometimes, the only use is calling in a surface specialist who can fully restore the appearance of the worktop.
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