How to Remove Dye Stains from Marble

Dye stains can be caused by products that contain dyes, such as candles, drinks or food products, as well as from items that actually are dyes themselves, such as food coloring used for cooking or hair dye. The process below can be used on any type of dye stain and requires no scrubbing. Follow the steps below and your marble will be dye-free in a jiffy.

• Isopropyl alcohol
• An absorbent powder (choose one):
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Cornstarch
  • Talcum powder
• Plastic wrap
• Tape

1. Mix together some isopropyl alcohol and an absorbent powder (choose one from the list above) in a bowl. Do not use rubbing alcohol as it contains other additives, including dyes, which could stain or damage the marble. The amount of each ingredient that you will need depends on how large the stain is, but the mixture should be the consistency of toothpaste or peanut butter.
2. Spread a thick layer of the paste over the stain.
3. Cover the area with plastic wrap. This will help to hold in the moisture.
4. If needed, tape down the edges of the area using a weak tape like masking tape or Scotch tape. Do not use a strong tape like duct tape or you may end up with a stain from the tape adhesive.
5. Leave the mixture on the area for several hours or overnight.
6. Remove the plastic wrap.
7. Wipe off the area to remove the powder.
8. If the dye stain remains, repeat the process but do not put the plastic wrap on. Allow the powder mixture to fully dry before removing it.

• If the above method does not work to remove the stain, try using acetone instead of alcohol. However, test the acetone in a small hidden area of the marble first to look for any adverse reaction.