Congrats! You’ve done your research, considered all of the options for your kitchen counters, and have finally decided on granite countertops. It’s an investment that offers durability and timeless appearances that you won’t find with any other countertop option.
As you probably now know, they are also an investment that isn’t exactly the cheapest. Given their location in your home, general spills and wear and tear should be expected. But, how do you properly maintain and care for such a valuable kitchen asset to ensure that they last as long as you need them to? Sure, they’re durable, but granite countertops are porous, meaning that they are susceptible to stains, and that (over time) they can wear down just like any other surface.
Don’t make exceptions; give your beautiful countertops what they deserve! Here are some of the best ways to take care of your granite countertops.
GENERAL DO’S AND DON’TS
Here are some general best practices for maintaining your granite countertops.
- Never sit or stand on them.
- Always use a cutting board. Many times, people find it acceptable to use knives directly on the granite surface. While scratching is easier to avoid with a surface as strong as granite, a cutting
- board is an easy way to prevent unnecessary damage.
- Use coasters to combat scratching, spills, and stains.
- Avoid putting your countertops in direct contact with intense heat. A few seconds is okay, but prolonged contact can result in damage that leads to cracking.
Read More: Learn more with our guide to natural stone!
LIGHT DAILY CLEANING
When it comes to the small stuff, warm water, small amounts of dish soap, and a soft cloth will do the trick. Minor accidents may seem insignificant at the time, but being quick with the clean-up is more important for the longevity of your granite than you may realize.
DEEP CLEANING
Use a pH-neutral, granite-specific cleaner to tackle larger, more set-in messes or for periodic deep cleanings. Never use vinegar, bleach, or other household cleaning products designated for tile, grout, or bathrooms. Most of these contain harmful agents that can etch and discolor your granite surfaces over time. The longer that accidents sit unattended, the worse the damage can become, so act quick!
SEALING
Once you’ve completed the cleaning and made everything shine, now is the time to seal it! A seal acts as a barrier between your countertops and the outside world, including the many spills and happy accidents that come with it. This will protect the beautiful finish and prevent any foreign materials from seeping in. We recommend a professional sealing annually!
PROFESSIONAL CLEANING AND RESTORATION
While it’s not something that needs to happen very frequently (in most cases, DIY will do the trick!), it’s important to consider an annual professional cleaning and polishing. Regardless of the condition your granite countertops are in, professionals have the tools to make them shine like they’re brand new. This consists of a perfected process that includes routine cleanings, sealings, and polishing, as well as thorough and extensive restoration jobs.
As the proud owner of beautiful granite countertops, you need a way to ensure that the money you put into them is well-spent — this is it. For all the messes you can’t DIY, call Carpet Tech! Regardless of what you need for your natural stone, we have a solution. Click below to get started!
