Few things match the excitement of seeing your beautiful newly installed granite countertop for the first time. A kitchen or bathroom countertop is definitely one of the visual highlights of a remodel.
Your next thought was probably “How do I keep it as beautiful as it is today?”?”
We will guide you through the steps necessary to keep your granite countertop looking as gorgeous as the day it was installed.
Regular cleaning
There are a myriad of products in the cleaning aisle, and choosing the right one can be overwhelming.. Some of these products claim to be safe on granite countertops, but we always recommend sticking with as natural and gentle a solution as possible. Mild dish soap and warm water will take care of most daily spills and accidents. Always rinse the area thoroughly after cleaning to avoid soap buildup on the counter.
Stubborn Food Stains
Accidents will happen and it’s important to wipe up any spills immediately. . Granite is a porous substance and will absorb things like grape juice or wine if not cleaned up right away. If a spill is missed and is left overnight, there is still hope to get that ugly purple ring out of your beautiful countertop. Here’s what to do:
- Carefully pour a small amount of Clorox bleach onto the stain.
- Lay plastic wrap over the stain and let it sit overnight.
- Usually, by the next morning the stain will begone.
- Remove the plastic wrap and thoroughly wipe off the area.
Dried Spills
Never t use abrasive cleaning pads like steel wool or rough sponges on a granite countertop as they can damage and dull the finish. The best approach is to use a plastic putty knife to scrape off any dried food, and then clean the spot as you normally would.
Metal Marks and Rust
If the unthinkable has happened and a metal can or object has been left to rust on a granite countertop, don’t panic. Just follow these steps:
- Pre-clean the area with soap and water.
- Next, mix a rust remover like Iron Out with flour to create a paste. The more significant the stain, the more paste you’ll need.
- Cover the stain with the paste and cover the paste with plastic wrap. Leave for 24 hours or until the paste is completely dry.
- Once it is dry, scrape it off to determine if the stain is gone.
- If the stain is still visible, repeat the above steps as necessary.
Chemicals & Cleaners to Avoid
Windex and acidic cleaners such as vinegar, lemon, and lime are all things that should be avoided when caring for your countertop. Do not use ammonia and only use bleach in desperate situations. Using these types of corrosive cleaners repeatedly will weaken and dull the finish of a granite countertop, making it more susceptible to stains and fractures in the future.
Heat Resistance
Granite is very heat resistant, but it is not heatproof. Because different patterns are created with varying types of stone, some are inherently more resistant than others. A more ornately patterned granite could crack over time if exposed to extreme heat on a regular basis. It probably won’t damage your granite to set a hot pan down occasionally, but it’s best to protect your countertop with heat pads or a towel. Sealing
Granite is a porous substance and will need regular sealing. How often sealing is required will depend on the type of sealant used and the particular stone’s actual porosity. Some sealers require treatment once a year, but newer products on the market l come with a lifetime guarantee. Do your research and find the best fit for you.
Whether your granite countertop is brand new or already in your home, it requires special attention to stay looking its best. Follow these rules, and you’ll be sure to enjoy your gorgeous countertop for many years to come. If you have any questions about specific stains that we didn’t cover here, don’t hesitate to call or email us.
