Cleaning Granite Countertop - Home - Interior Design

Cleaning Granite Countertop

How to Clean a Granite Countertop

Homeowners looking to upgrade their kitchens are installing granite countertops for a durable, low maintenance work surface. Proper care of granite countertops ensures the durability and longevity expected from this premium product. But homeowners aren't always familiar with the proper methods for cleaning granite countertops, so we offer the following:

Cleaning Granite Countertops

As each natural stone or mineral surface can vary, your granite countertop may have specific cleaning requirements specified by the supplier or builder. The following method is a general guide for polished granite countertops:

For Everyday Cleaning

1. Do not use abrasives or harsh cleaners, as they can wear down and damage the polished surface.

2. Wipe the granite countertop down lightly with a dry, soft cloth to remove crumbs or debris.

3. Use warm water and a very small amount of ph-balanced dish soap and wipe down the surface.

4. Dry lightly with a dishtowel.

For Periodic or Weekly Cleaning

1. Wipe the countertop down lightly with a dry, soft cloth.

2. Spray a mist of recommended granite cleaner over the surface.

3. Let the product soak for approximately 1 minute.

4. Clean with a sponge or soft towel or rag.

5. Buff and dry the surface with a clean towel or paper towel.

Maintaining Granite Countertops

Granite is one of the hardest stone surfaces there is, second only to diamonds, but granite is created from molten rock, and can contain softer minerals. While granite countertops may be honed, in other words, have a flat finish, a polished surface is recommended for kitchen granite countertops.

1. Avoid letting acidic foods and liquids, such as wine, vinegar or lemon, set on the countertop, as it can affect the surface. Wiping down the countertop after use can help keep damaging products from being left in contact with the surface.

2. Use a cutting board for food preparation, do not cut food directly on the countertop.

3. Do not use powder cleaning products or harsh cleaning products.

4. Use a penetrating sealant recommended by your supplier or builder annually. Make sure the granite countertop sealant is one that actually penetrates the surface, otherwise a cloudy film may remain, and the surface may need to be stripped and resealed to get your shine back.

Removing Stains from Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are often chosen over marble since they are less porous and more stain resistant. But if you should happen to have a stain, remove it by mixing a 'paste' of:

* One Tablespoon of PH-balanced, mild dishwashing soap; * Cup of Flour

Add water to make a pasty consistency. Cover stain with the solution, and leave for one hour. Remove the hardened paste carefully using the edge of a credit card or wooden utensil. Rinse the area. If the stain remains, try the solution again, leaving overnight covered with a plastic wrap. Remove and rinse.