How Do I Clean and Care for My Granite Countertops?

Counters are a big investment, and like any good homeowner, you want to make sure that you keep that investment looking good. You also want to help it last a long time. The question is, how?  

Taking good care of your counters might seem daunting at first, and yes, granite does require diligent maintenance, but armed with a few basics, you will have no trouble keeping your counters looking good.  

First, sealing your granite with a quality sealer can help your granite last longer and can also make maintenance easier. It seals off the surface of the granite so that spills and dirt are less likely to seep into the porous structure of the stone (which is what causes damage and stains).

Sealing your granite will not make it indestructible or stain-proof, but that extra layer of protection can add a peace of mind that is well worth the cost. We suggest STONETECH sealers to our customers.

Here are a few do’s and don’ts that can give you some guidelines as to how to care for your beautiful countertops.  

DO’S:

• Do clean up spills immediately. Dampen a soft, non-abrasive cloth and blot the liquid instead of wiping it off (wiping is less effective as it smears the spill around.)
• Do clean often. Simply wiping down your counters using hot water and a soft cloth several time a day can go a long way with keeping buildup at bay and catching any spills you might have missed.
• Do use gentle cleaners on your counters. Cleaners made especially for granite are not required to keep counters looking nice, and regular dish soap can work if used occasionally, but it can also cause buildup over time. Buying cleaner specifically for your granite countertops can be a good small investment (granite cleaners are not very costly) to protect your big one. There are many good granite cleaners out there; we suggest STONETECH cleaners to our customers.
• Do protect your counters and your knives by using cutting boards.

DON’TS:

• Don’t let spills sit on your counter. This might seem like common sense, but leaving substances such as oil, juices, wine, and tea sitting on the granite can leave permanent stains.
• Don’t use an abrasive cleaner or scrubber. This can break down the sealer (if your counters are sealed) or scratch and damage the surface of the granite.
• Don’t use acids or alkalis on your counters. They also break down sealers and damage the counter finish. Vinegar and bleach are big no-no’s.