Households have been issued a major warning over a silent threat destroying their kitchen counters.
When thinking of items that stain surfaces, red wine, coffee and beetroot usually come to mind.
However, new research from kitchen specialists has revealed that reusable plastic bags are emerging as a surprising culprit
Huge warning issued over silent threat destroying your kitchen
Prestige Granite explained that when a bag for life gets wet, its dye can transfer onto worktops, seeping into the surface and causing lasting marks.
As a result, a 30p shopping bag has the potential to cause thousands of pounds in damage in just a matter of minutes.
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.
“If this doesn’t 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.”
Five ways to tackle plastic bag stains on your kitchen worktop
Liv Reed has revealed how to tackle plastic bag stains on your worktop:
Act Quickly
As soon as you notice dye transfer, you should blot the area with a clean, dry cloth to soak up as much of the colour as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the pigment deeper into the surface.
Use Warm, Soapy Water
Mix mild washing-up liquid with warm water and gently clean the stained patch using a soft sponge or cloth.
This is safe for most worktops and can sometimes lift the dye if caught early, according to the expert.
Apply a Baking Soda Paste
For more stubborn stains, you can make a paste with baking soda and water.
This should then be spread over the mark, left for 5 to 10 minutes, then gently scrubbed in circular motions before rinsing away.
Try a Specialist Cleaner
If the stain persists, use a non-abrasive stone or surface cleaner designed for granite, quartz, or marble.
This should always be tested on a small, hidden area first to avoid further damage.
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Seek Professional Help if Needed
Deep-set stains may require professional polishing or treatment.
In some cases, only a surface specialist can fully restore the worktop’s appearance.
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