You may recognize a fine Granite countertop for its durability and resistance. Due to this reputation, many people overlook the care needed to preserve it.
However, like any high-quality material, it requires proper care and maintenance to keep its beauty and value over time.
With the proper techniques and materials, it is possible to ensure that these countertops remain pristine, avoiding costly repairs or replacements down the line.
This article explores essential dos and don’ts, tips, and guidelines for cleaning and preserving your Granite countertops.
Practices to avoid
Before figuring out what you need to do to keep your countertops looking as good as new, it’s essential to point out what you should avoid. Improper care can lead to damage, dullness, and the need for costly repairs.
Here are some critical don’ts to keep your stone surfaces in top condition:
Avoid acidic and abrasive tools
Granite countertops are sensitive to certain chemicals. It’s important to opt for pH-neutral cleaners designed for natural stone instead of harsh chemicals.
Acidic cleaners:
Avoid any cleaners containing acids, such as vinegar, lemon juice, or citrus-based products. While these are often recommended for general cleaning, they can chemically react with the stone surface.
The result can be the countertop’s discoloration, etching, or even corrosion, leaving permanent damage.
Beware of abrasive tools:
Utensils like steel wool, scouring pads, and rough bristle brushes may seem effective for tough cleaning, but they can cause irreversible damage to your countertop’s surface.
Granite is a durable material, but it is still susceptible to scratches. Steel wool and rough bristles contain tiny particles that can scratch your stone countertop when rubbed in.
While the damage might not be obvious initially, these scratches can gradually accumulate dirt and stains, making your countertop look dull and worn over time.
Clean spills immediately!
Whether it’s a glass of red wine, coffee, oil, or the acidic substances we mentioned previously, these liquids can quickly seep into the stone’s pores, causing difficult stains, if not impossible, to remove.
If your stone is lighter-colored, then you need to pay extra attention.
You might ask yourself, “Do I need to take care of it, even when my countertop is sealed?”. And the answer is: Yes!
Even if your Granite countertop is sealed, the sealant only provides a temporary barrier. Regular spills and delayed clean-ups can wear down the sealant over time, allowing liquids to penetrate the stone.
Protect against excessive heat:
When hot pots, pans, or baking dishes are placed directly on a stone countertop, the extreme heat can cause thermal shock.
This condition occurs when a rapid change in temperature causes the stone to expand or contract quickly, potentially leading to cracks or fissures. Over time, this can compromise the countertop’s structural integrity and affect its overall durability.
To remind you, the actions you should avoid to keep your countertop in great condition are:
- Avoid acidic and abrasive tools
- Clean spills immediately
- Protect against excessive heat
Here’s how to care for your countertop
Use recommended products for cleaning stone countertops:
Unlike generic cleaners that may contain harsh chemicals, it’s crucial to select products specifically formulated for natural stone surfaces.
Mild, pH-neutral cleaners
These cleaners are gentle on the stone, effectively removing dirt, grease, and other residues without compromising the countertop’s integrity.
Using a pH-neutral cleaner helps maintain the stone’s natural seal, preventing any potential damage that acidic products could cause.
Stone-specific cleaners
There are also specialized stone cleaners designed to cater to the unique needs of natural stones like Granite and Marble.
These cleaners are often infused with conditioners that help to enhance the stone’s luster while providing a protective layer against stains.
Establish a cleaning routine:
By establishing a daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning schedule, you ensure your Granite countertop remains beautiful and durable.
To help you, here are some suggestions for you to use as a template for establishing your routine:
Daily cleaning routine
Your stone countertops are exposed to various elements daily. To keep them in top condition, a simple daily cleaning routine is essential.
- Wipe down the countertop with a soft, damp cloth or sponge.
- Use a mild, pH-neutral cleaner for spills and residues.
- Dry the countertop thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Weekly deep cleaning
It is important to add a more thorough weekly cleaning to your routine.
- Use a stone-specific cleaner.
- Spray the cleaner evenly on the countertop.
- Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes.
- Gently scrub the surface with a soft cloth or sponge.
- Rinse with clean water.
- Dry the countertop thoroughly.
Monthly maintenance
Once a month, take the time to inspect your countertops for any signs of wear or damage. This is also a good time to reapply a stone sealer if necessary, depending on the type of stone and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Sealing your Granite countertop or other stone surfaces helps protect against stains and etching by creating a barrier on the surface. Ask a specialist for help with this application.
Additional tips for keeping your Granite countertop shiny and stain-free
While regular cleaning and sealing are essential, incorporating a few additional practices can make a significant difference in how your countertops look and feel over time.
FIRST TIP:
Consider using coasters, placemats, and trivets to protect your countertop granite from potential damage caused by beverages, hot dishes, and heavy pots.
SECOND TIP:
Consider using a stone-specific polish after cleaning your countertops. Polishing helps restore the stone’s natural luster, enhancing its color and pattern while adding an extra layer of protection against water spots and minor scratches.
Quick overview
Here’s a summary of the information you need to keep your stone looking like new:
| DOS | DON’TS |
| Use mild, pH-neutral cleaners | Use acidic cleaners (vinegar, lemon juice) |
| Use stone-specific cleaners | Use abrasive tools (steel wool, scouring pads) |
| Establish a daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routine | Leave spills unattended |
| Inspect for damage and reapply sealer monthly (if needed) | Place hot pots or pans directly on the countertop |
Would you like to know more specific tips for your stone countertops? The Classic Stoneworks team can help!
Contact us for personalized recommendations!
