So you just bought granite countertops for your kitchen, and they look fabulous. It is only reasonable that you would want to keep this look for as long as possible. Some people think that maintaining the aesthetics of their granite countertops costs a lot of money. Some homeowners even shied away from the idea of buying and having granite counters installed for this purpose. Nothing could be farther from the truth.
In just a few simple steps, you can keep the exterior surface of your granite looking as fabulous as it did the day it was installed, and maintain this appearance for many years to come. You will not have to worry about the stone losing its polished, high sheen or becoming pockmarked from dents, chips, and scratches. Here are some guidelines to help you extend the longevity of your granite countertops.
- Make sure you are using the right products for the job of cleaning granite countertops.
Some people think that you need expensive cleaning solvents to maintain the appearance of your granite countertop. While it is true that you should have the stone professionally sealed on a regular basis, for day-to-day cleaning all you need is warm water and a light-colored, mild dish soap that is phosphate-free, fragrance-free, and biodegradable. Using plain soap and water can leave behind soap scum which builds up on the surface of the granite.
Avoid using powdered cleaning agents. These products often contain pumice stone. That is right – the same thing used to scrape dry skin off the soles and heels of feet during a pedicure. You should never use an abrasive cleaning product on your kitchen granite counters. Also avoid acid-based cleaners, which could contain the ingredient ammonia which also eats away at the granite.
Instead of using a rough scrubby-type sponge or dish rag to clean your counters, use a soft, white cloth. When you are done, wash it like normal and put it away, and then only use it for cleaning the granite countertops in the kitchen or bath.
- Clean up spills on granite countertops in the kitchen or bathroom as soon as possible.
Whether you are preparing food on a granite countertop in the kitchen or getting ready to begin your day in the bathroom, if you have a granite countertop in one of these two rooms then something could spill on it. Because the stone is slightly porous, acidic liquids and solids can eat through the glossy surface, leaving behind the look of etched glass.
Some popular items that cause the most damage to granite stone are wine, mustard, oil, citrus products, toothpaste, or anything with chemicals. In the event that something does stain your granite countertop, you can take the following steps to try and remove it yourself.
- Marker stains – On dark granite wipe away using acetone. On light granite, try hydrogen peroxide.
- Colored liquids (non-oil) – Mix flour, dishwashing soap, and water to make a poultice. Spread over the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and leave overnight. The poultice should draw the liquid from the stone. Scrape the poultice off the next morning with a wooden spoon.
- Oil – Mix flour, dishwashing soap, and hydrogen peroxide to make a poultice. Spread over the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and leave overnight. The poultice should draw the liquid from the stone. Scrape the poultice off the next morning with a wooden spoon.
- Organic food stains – Try mixing up the poultice for colored liquids, but add a few drops of ammonia, and follow the directions as stated. You could also sprinkle cornstarch on the stain and let it sit for half a day to 48 hours. Vacuum up the cornstarch at that time. If the stain lingers, repeat as necessary until it is gone.
Water will stain your granite countertop. It will make the stone look darker. Have you ever seen pavers after a rain storm? The water on your granite is very similar when it gets wet due to its porous nature. The dark stain spilled water leaves behind will eventually fade and then disappear completely as the stone dries out. Having your granite countertop professionally sealed, however can reduce how much liquid the stone absorbs.
- Have your granite countertops for the kitchen or bath professionally sealed.
When you order granite countertops for your home, ask the salesperson about sealing. Some people will tell you that you can easily apply some type of natural stone sealer to your own granite countertops and achieve the same results. The reality is that the retailer has workers who are specially trained in the artistry that is granite countertops. These people have the knowledge and experience required to do the job right the first time.