Blot the spill with a paper towel immediately. Don't wipe the area, as it will spread the spill. Flush the area with plain water and mild soap and rinse several times. Dry the area thoroughly with a soft cloth. Repeat as necessary.

Should you forget to reseal your stone and your spill absorbs into the stone leaving a stain, there are ways to remove it. Identifying the type of stain on the stone surface is the key to removing it. Surface stains can often be removed by cleaning with an appropriate cleaning product or household chemical. Deep-seated or stubborn stains my require using a poultice. **(Please see section on poultice for more information.)

Oil-based Stains: (grease, tar, cooking oil, milk, cosmetics)- This stain will darken the stone and normally must be chemically dissolved so the source of the stain can be flushed or rinsed away. Clean gently with a soft, liquid cleanser with bleach, OR household detergent OR ammonia OR mineral spirits OR acetone.

Organic (coffee, tea, fruit, tobacco, paper, food, urine, leaves, bark, bird droppings)- Outdoors, normal sun and rain action will remove the stains. Indoors, clean with 12% hydrogen peroxide (hair bleaching strength) and a few drops of ammonia.

Metal (iron, rust, copper, bronze)- Metal stains must be removed with a poultice.

Ink (magic marker, pen, ink) - Clean with bleach or hydrogen peroxide (light colored stone only!) or lacquer thinner or acetone (dark stones only!).