Maintenance and Care of Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are by far the most popular high end counter surfaces in use today.
Many people love the luxurious look and feel of real polished stone and, although it is certainly pricier than other options, the price is seen by many as worth every penny.
Granite counter tops, and other surfaces such as marble, travertine, quartz, and limestone are certainly durable.
Because the are sealed before using, they can also be stain resistant and easy to clean.
However, these beautiful countertops are not invincible. They can stain and crack.
There are simple do's and don'ts in granite countertop care that can keep your kitchen countertops looking absolutely beautiful for many years to come.
Granite Countertop Care
The best and easiest way to keep your granite looking beautiful for years and to eliminate potential problems before they happen is to develop habits that will prevent damage. For example:
Do Not Sit or Stand on Your Granite Counter Tops
Because granite, like other stones, is an extremely hard surface, we think of it as indestructible. But granite is not flexible and does not have a rigid backing on it like laminate countertops do. Because of this it can crack if someone sits or stands on it or places too much weight on it.
Clean Spills Immediately
Substances like wine, fruit juices, coffee, sodas and tomato sauce are acidic. If not wiped up immediately they can cause stains or actually etch your stone surface. Some cooking oils may also leave a stain and should be cleaned immediately.
Clean Countertops with a Soft Cloth or Sponge
Hot water and a sponge or soft cloth are best for most everyday clean-ups. You can also find specifically formulated stone cleaner. Regular dish soap (not dishwasher detergent) can be used on occasion as well, but will cause a buildup over time that will dull the shine on your stone.
Use Coasters
Different stone materials have varying stain resistant qualities. Marble stains quite easily, granite less so if it was sealed properly. Even so, it is wise to use a coaster under all bottles, glasses and cans. As we stated above, drinks and foods can contain acids that may etch or otherwise damage the surface of your countertop.
We all have times when dishes and glasses pile up a bit around the sink before they are washed or put into the dishwasher. Make sure they are rinsed out with water before sitting them on the counter, again to avoid the possibility of stains.
Always Cut on a Cutting Board
Hard granite surfaces can actually cause knives to become dull or damaged. To protect your knives, it is wise to always use a cutting board when cutting on your granite countertops. It also avoids any possibility of scratching the granite surface.
Use Trivets and Hot Pads
You can place a hot pot on granite with no immediate issues, but other stone surfaces are less forgiving. There are other issues to consider however. Bits of grit can get trapped under a pot's surface and scratch even granite counter tops.
Also, although granite is extremely hard, it does contain some softer minerals that could chip or scratch. Most chips and scratches in granite are easily repaired, but better to be safe than sorry as they say and use a hot pad.
Cleaning Granite Countertops
Never use cleaning products such as bleach, ammonia, glass cleaners, degreasers or lemon/orange type cleaners on your granite surfaces. All of these types of products contain acids and alkalis that can mar the surface or wear down the sealer, leaving your kitchen countertop more prone to staining. Bathroom cleaning products and grout cleaners will scratch and dull the surface.
Use hot water and a soft cloth for most everyday cleanups, or purchase special cleaning products that are made specifically for polished stone surfaces. Even vinegar can dull the surface after several applications.
If you develop good habits in the care of your granite countertops you will enjoy their beauty and durability for many years to come.
