Caring for Your Granite Countertops

The beautiful natural stone, bacteria resistance, and polished shine of granite countertops have kept them at the top of homeowners’ wish lists since the early 2000s. To keep it functioning at its best, however, granite requires a specific cleaning routine. If properly cared for, these countertops can last for decades, so it is important to know how to best keep them clean before you make the investment.

Five Easy Steps for Cleaning Granite Countertops:

1. Gather the Correct Cleaning Materials:
   The sealant on granite countertops is vulnerable to the ammonia and acidity commonly found in many cleaning products, so avoiding harsh chemicals is imperative when cleaning them. Consider buying a cleaning solution that is specific to granite countertops. Alternatively, you can make your own by mixing warm water, mild dish soap, and rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. To avoid scratching the stone, only use soft cloths, like microfiber, or sponges to clean and polish granite countertops.

2. Clean the Surface:
   Once you have gathered the correct cleaning materials, the next step is to apply them to the surface and scrub. The cleaning method you use will depend on the type of solution you choose. For a granite cleaner, spray the disinfectant on the surface, wait for five minutes, then rinse thoroughly. With a homemade solution, dip your cloth in the mixture, wring it out until it is damp, and use it to wipe the countertop in a circular motion. Be sure to rinse your cloth in water periodically to avoid spreading any food, dirt, or grease you pick up along the way.

3. Remove Stubborn Stains:
   If you encounter any stubborn stains in your granite, you can remove them without damaging the natural stone by making a simple baking soda paste. For an oil-based stain, mix baking soda with water, and to fight water-based stains, mix it with hydrogen peroxide. Then, apply the paste generously over the stained area and gently scrub the counter. For extra stubborn stains, cover the homemade stain remover with plastic wrap and leave it in place overnight. In the morning, rinse and wipe the surface with a soft cloth.

4. Dry the Surface Completely:
   Drying the surface completely is the last step in cleaning your granite countertops. After cleaning them, make sure to thoroughly wipe them with a dry, soft cloth. This will protect the material from water spots and damage, as well as eliminate any streaks. It will also leave the surface shiny.

5. Seal Your Granite Countertops:
   Due to their porous nature, granite countertops require a sealant to protect them from stains. While most installed granite comes pre-sealed, this process needs to be repeated every year. You can perform a water test to determine if it’s time to reseal your countertops. Spoon out a few drops of water onto the surface and wait for 15 minutes. If the water beads up, that indicates that the sealant is still strong. If it penetrates the granite, however, it is time for a reseal.

Install Granite Countertops in Your Home

Granite countertops can take the style of your kitchen or bathroom to the next level. At The Window Depot, we carry a large variety of home improvement products, including a selection of beautiful granite and quartz countertops. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the slab that is right for you. For a custom quote, contact The Window Depot today!