Granite countertops possess an undeniable charm that transforms any space into a realm of elegance.
It is also the second most durable material, therefore it will last in your kitchen for a long time if you care for it properly.
Here is the proper way to clean your granite countertops to prevent staining, scratching, or cracking so that you can retain your granite’s natural lustre.
Preparing for Cleaning
To clean your granite countertops, you will need the following based on the level of usage:
- pH-neutral granite cleaner
- Microfiber cloths or soft sponges
- Gentle scrubbing sponge
- Granite-safe disinfectant
- Warm water
- Mild dish soap
Then, you should remove any loose debris or crumbs from the countertop using a soft cloth.
The Cleaning Routine
When you have all the items ready for cleaning your granites, it’s time to clean.
Here is a table in which we have summarized the dos and don’ts you should follow to ensure you do not damage the granite countertop
| Dos | Don’ts |
| Use pH-neutral cleaners for daily cleaning. | Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners, including vinegar and lemon juice. |
| Clean up spills immediately to prevent staining. | Don’t use bleach or ammonia-based cleaners as they can damage the surface. |
| Use cutting boards or mats when chopping or slicing food. | Avoid cutting directly on the granite surface to prevent scratches. |
| Use hot pads or trivets under hot cookware. | Avoid placing hot pans directly on the countertop. The sudden heat can cause cracking. |
| Use a soft cloth or sponge for cleaning. | Avoid using rough scrub brushes or steel wool that can scratch the surface. |
| Consult with a professional for any deep stains or damage. | Don’t attempt to remove deep stains or repair significant damage on your own without professional guidance. |
Dealing With Stains, Spills and Etching
Granite is prone to etching or oil-based, organic, and inorganic stains from improper cleaning.
Oil-based stains are mostly from grease, nail polish, cosmetics, milk or cooking oil:
- Create a mixture of baking soda with water
- Apply the poultice over the stain
- Cover it with plastic wrap and let it sit for a few hours but overnight is more effective
- Then gently remove the poultice as you clean the area
On the other hand, organic stains are from food, tea, coffee, wine, and juices while inorganic stains are from dyes, food colours, and inks.
This is how you clean these stains:
- Wipe the area with a clean cloth
- Apply a mixture of 1/3 cup of bleach or a mild concentration of hydrogen peroxide (12%) to 1 gallon of water
- Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water
- Then dry the surface
But how do you differentiate if it is a stain and not etching on your granite countertop?
A stain is a discolouration on the granite surface while etching is a physical change caused by acidic reactions.
Therefore etching has a different texture, if you run your fingers in the affected area, etching leaves a rough dull texture while stains remain smooth to the touch.
To clean an etch, you need a restoration expert since this is actual damage that affects the finishing of the granite countertop.
Sealing Granite for Additional Care and Maintenance
To ensure that you get the shiny, long-lasting lustre of your granite countertops lasting for long, you should seal the granite countertops, especially the one in the kitchen after cleaning.
Sealing granite involves applying a protective sealant to the surface to act as a barrier to prevent the absorption of liquids, stains or other substances. This makes the granite countertop stain resistant therefore easy to maintain.
Also, it makes the granite countertop more durable.
However, not all granite countertops require sealing as some varieties are naturally resistant to staining.
Therefore, before any installation, ensure you use a professional who understands granites so that they can recommend a variety that does not stain.
Get Granite Countertops to Enhance Your Space With Stunning Elegance
You don’t need to be wary of using granite countertops as you can clean them easily using the above tips.
You can also hire a professional to remove stains and etchings or install a high-quality granite countertop.
At ONYX, we have years of experience in granite installations that enable us to offer the best services. We also use high-quality granite slabs to create stunning countertops, custom-fit for your space.
Talk to us today for all your countertop installation needs, and we will ensure a flawless finish that showcases the true beauty of granite.
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