Granite is one of the most popular choices for stone countertops in kitchens and bathrooms. Why? Because it’s strong, hard – and endlessly customizable. You can choose any color or shape you want. So now you’ve found the perfect granite countertop, here’s how to care for it and keep it in showroom condition.
Remove any spills or stains
Granite is tough, but it can stain if you leave messes on the countertop for too long. So the first step is to make sure your granite countertop stays clean. Wipe up any spills with a paper towel as soon as they happen. Then clean the counter with one of our recommended methods in the next step.
Use recommended cleaning products
To maintain your granite countertop, it’s important to use the right cleaning products. Don’t use harsh chemicals which could bleach, stain, or erode the stone. That includes any cleaning products with ammonia, lemon, or vinegar. Use soft clothes or sponges instead of steel wool or scourers.
Try one of these methods to clean granite countertops, instead:
- warm water and dish soap for general cleaning
- rubbing alcohol and water for disinfecting
- soft towel, chamois or microfiber cloth for drying
Avoid using too much water to clean the countertop. You should use enough liquid to wipe the surface down – no more than that.
Add a protective layer
You have to be careful when cleaning granite, because it can be damaged by too much moisture. When your kitchen or bathroom countertop is installed, it will be finished with a professional-level sealant.
However, you still need to maintain the sealant, and make sure that it is working from time to time. If your countertop gets stained, then the sealant has stopped working. You can also test the granite by dropping some water on the surface: if it goes into the stone, instead of staying on top, then you need to re-seal the countertop.
