How to Remove a Candle Wax Stain on a Stone Fireplace

Q. I accidentally left a candle on my wood burner, lit a fire and the wax melted. The candle was on a saucer which collected most of the wax. When I moved the candle and placed it on the hearth, I spilt the wax. After it had cooled down I lifted the saucer, it left a tan mark on the stone under the wax. I have tried rubbing alcohol which has made a slight difference but can you suggest anything else which will get the stain out?

A. The first step will be to remove the candle wax from the porous surface of the stone. The second step will be to remove any staining the wax my leave behind. For wax removal, use a plastic scraper to scrape the solid wax material off the stone. Make sure you don‘t use metal or any sharp object to remove wax as it may scratch the finish of the stone. Use white paper towels and a hot iron (some wax may end up on your iron) to lift whatever wax remains. Repeat as needed, replacing waxy towels with clean towels. Use a moist, clean cloth to clean the surface. If any discoloration remains, apply a few drops of degreaser or ammonia to the cloth and clean the area again. Rinse the surface with water and allow it to completely dry. For stubborn staining, apply a poultice. Your poultice ingredients will be 40 volume hydrogen peroxide, available at beauty supply stores, and a dry ingredient, such as poultice powder, diatomaceous earth, or flour. If the stain fades at all, keep reapplying the poultice until the stain is completely removed. If the stain does not fade, try applying a poultice of paint thinner and a dry ingredient.