soap stain in granite

[Barry Garsson]

A soap dispenser attached to my granite counter has been leaking liquid soap for several years, and has created a very dark ring around the opening (the opening through which the soap dispenser is mounted)- the darkened area is larger than the bezel of the soap dispenser so it shows and is unsightly. Ordinary cleaners (scouring powder, Barkeeper's Friend [oxalic acid], etc.) are not effective. I have left the dispenser out to hopefully allow the stain to dry out but after a week I notice no change. Would a stronger agent (like sulfuric acid) do any good? I am loathe to have someone grind the surface as it would create a change in the smooth top. Can you suggest anything?
Barry

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[Maurizio Bertoli]

Dear Barry:
Even you have the surface ground it wouldn't do you any good. :)
The soap has been absorbed into the stone from inside of the hole and it's soaked through and through. Trying to clean the surface won't even tickle it.
Unfortunately you waited too long (several years), therefore there's little hope that the stain can be removed. The ony thing that you can try to do is to put plenty of baby powder onto it for several weeks and keep your fingers crossed! :(
Ciao and good luck,

[Michael Meyer]

Hi Barry Remove your dispenser then use hot water paper towel poultices, several attempts may be required. Michael Meyer