Are you contemplating adding granite countertops into your home? Great choice. But it’s important to know how to maintain your countertops so you can get a long lifespan out of them. Failing to take care of your granite counters can shorten their useful life, so heed these do’s and don’ts for a beautiful, durable end result that lasts for decades.

DO

• Use the right cleaners. Granite kitchen countertops are very easy to keep clean. But you have to use cleaners that are approved for use on granite. Look for labels that say “specifically formulated for granite countertops” so you know you’re using the right kind of product that won’t harm your surfaces.  
• Seal your granite kitchen countertops. Sealing your countertops offers them the highest level of protection, particularly if you have a high-traffic kitchen or bathroom that gets a lot of abuse. Not sure if it’s time to seal your counters? Simply place a drop of water on the surface and see if it beads up. If it does, you’re good. If it gets absorbed, it’s time to apply sealant.
• Inspect the slab prior to installation. Because granite is a natural material containing many variations, it’s important to hand-select your specific slab if you can.
• Use a mild solution of water and soap: In order to safely remove dirt and grime on a daily basis, just use some soap and water. For deeper, less frequent cleans, use the specialty formulas. Always use a soft cloth or sponge, not an abrasive brush.
• Call a natural stone repair and cleaning company when you see scratches, chips or minor damage. Professionals can make these repairs, thus ensuring a longer lifespan for your countertops.  

• Use hot pads or trivets. Granite is heat-resistant but you should still place hot pans on pads or trivets rather than directly on the surface to be safe.
• Use coasters for cups, glasses and bottles. Take special care especially with glasses that contain alcohol or acidic beverages. Granite is tough in relation to other natural stones, but you still want to take all possible precautions for protection.

DON’T

• Use your granite countertops as a cutting board. While granite is very durable, you could dull your knives if you cut directly on the stone surface.
• Clean your countertop with lemon juice, oil, or acidic substances. While granite doesn’t dull or etch very easily, you still want to be safe.
• Use harsh cleaners or abrasive scrubbing tools. While they won’t necessarily hurt the stone itself, they can weaken or scratch the sealant. Stay away from acidic cleaners or abrasive sponges and pumice stones.
• Store lotions and creams on your countertop. While not as harmful as acidic substances, these products can leak and infiltrate the granite, leaving stains. Instead, keep these toiletries in the bathroom.
• Spill acidic substances such as tomato sauce, wine or coffee on your countertop. If a spill does occur, wipe it up immediately with a soft cloth.
• Use your countertop as a worktable. Don’t put your tool box on your countertop or do crafts on your countertop. If you must do so, place a thick blanket on the surface and don’t drag or drop your tools.
• Allow your pets to sleep on your granite countertop. While it may seem cute or harmless to let your cat snooze on your counters, they can scratch the surface with their claws, plus they can transfer dirt from their paws.

Contact Granite Guy

Now that you know the proper maintenance steps to ensuring beautiful, durable granite countertops, it’s time to set up an appointment with our Newton stone installers. Get a free quote and schedule a consultation when you contact us at 508-460-7900.