While granite is a resilient and durable option for kitchen countertops, it is a material that still requires proper care to keep its shine and beauty. Cleaning granite countertops should be done with caution because using the wrong products or techniques can damage the surface.
At Express Cabinet & Granite, we’ve put together a few tips on properly cleaning and caring for your granite countertops to prevent damage and keep your countertops looking great!
The best method for daily or weekly cleaning is to use diluted mild dish soap and a soft wet sponge. Granite can scratch easily, so be sure to use a soft sponge or a microfiber cloth. Avoid using any type of abrasive scrubber.
Massage your soapy sponge or cloth until it begins to show suds, then be sure to wring it out. Granite is highly absorbent and can become discolored by excess standing water, so you do not want to clean it with an excessively wet sponge.
Once you have prepared your sponge, gently wipe across the countertop using small, circular motions. If you have dried-on foods, you may have to scrub a little harder, but you will still need to avoid abrasives.
Once you have finished cleaning, be sure to completely dry your countertops to protect them from water damage and eliminate streaks to ensure you achieve the beauty and shine you want.
The last thing you want to see is a stain on your pristine granite countertops, but the good news is, stains can typically be removed using everyday household items. Regardless of the type of stain, start the removal process with baking soda. If you are cleaning a water-based stain, mix baking soda with a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to form a paste. For oil-based stain, you will want to mix baking soda and water to make a paste.
For both water-based and oil-based stains, spoon the paste over the stained area and cover it with plastic wrap. Tape down the edges and leave it on overnight. Remove the plastic wrap, then rinse and wipe down the area.
A sealant typically protects your granite countertops, but this sealant will need to be reapplied regularly. You can determine if your granite is sealed by putting a few drops of water onto the surface. If the water beads up, the granite is sealed and protected. If the water penetrates the granite, it needs to be resealed. Be sure to address this water stain if it penetrates that granite.
If you continue to experience stains that you can’t remove, it is likely that your sealant is failing and needs to be redone. In this situation, it is best to contact a professional to have your countertops cleaned and resealed to prevent further staining.
At Express Cabinet & Granite, we offer a variety of granite countertop options for Pittsburgh homeowners. We also offer expert installation to ensure you get the look and quality you desire. You can reach us on our website, or by giving us a call. Contact us today to learn more!
