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Homeowners have been warned about an easy mistake that could end up costing them a lot in kitchen repairs. Experts at kitchen specialistsPrestige Granite have revealed that a 30p household item could do "thousands of pounds" worth of damage your work surfaces.

When thinking of items that stain surfaces, red wine, coffee, and beetroot usually spring to mind. But there is another surprising culprit - reusable plastic bags. According to experts, when a bag for life gets wet, its dye can transfer onto worktops, seeping into the surface and causing lasting marks. 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." She said that 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.

Reed went on: "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."

How to tackle plastic bag stains on your worktop, according to Prestige Granite

• Act Fast: As soon as you notice dye transfer, 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.

• Apply a Baking Soda Paste: For stubborn stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Spread it over the mark, leave for 5-10 minutes, then gently scrub 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. Always test on a small, hidden area first to avoid further damage.

• Seek Professional Help: Deep-set stains may require professional polishing or treatment. In some cases, only a surface specialist can fully restore the worktop's appearance.