How to Care For Your Granite Kitchen Countertops

Follow These Steps to Keep Your Kitchen Counters In Top Condition

Granite kitchen countertops are a popular choice for homeowners looking to combine beauty and durability in their kitchen remodel. Granite is known for its patterns and resilience. However, like any surface, granite requires proper care to maintain its appearance. Understanding how to care for your countertops will ensure they stay in top shape for years to come.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to caring for your granite kitchen countertops, so you can make sure they remain the striking focal point of your kitchen.

Granite Is a Unique Material With Unique Considerations

Granite is a natural stone, formed over millions of years. It’s this gradual formation process that gives each granite slab a unique pattern. Its natural properties mean that granite is highly durable and heat resistant, qualities that make it a popular option for residential kitchens.

To retain these properties, granite needs correct and appropriate care. Without proper maintenance, granite kitchen countertops can become susceptible to staining, chipping, or cracking, but when cared for they can last a lifetime, making them an excellent investment for any kitchen remodel.

For Everyday Shine, Clean Your Granite Kitchen Countertops Daily

No matter what kitchen countertop you have, a daily clean eliminates unsightly spills, stains, and crumbs, and keeps your kitchen beautiful and hygienic.

To clean your granite kitchen countertops appropriately, follow these easy steps for daily maintenance:

1. Use a gentle cleaner: Granite can be sensitive to harsh chemicals. Avoid cleaning products that contain vinegar, lemon juice, ammonia, or bleach, as these can damage the sealant and dull your granite surface over time.

Instead, opt for a pH-neutral cleaner or a mild dish soap mixed with water. Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the countertop after each use. You also can purchase cleaners designed specifically for granite.

2. Wipe up spills immediately: Although granite is less porous than some other natural countertop materials like marble and wood, it can still absorb liquid, especially if the sealant has worn down.

To prevent staining, quickly wipe up spills, particularly if the substance is acidic, like wine, coffee, or citrus juices. These can absorb into the surface and leave permanent marks if left untreated.

3. Dry the surface: After cleaning, always dry your granite kitchen countertop with a soft towel or cloth to avoid water spots or streaks. This step also helps prevent hard water deposits from forming.

Sealing Your Granite Kitchen Countertops

One of the cornerstones of granite countertop care is sealing. As a natural stone, granite is porous, which means it needs to be properly coated with a protective sealant, to prevent absorption of liquid and oils.

Usually, your granite countertops are sealed before installation, but this protective layer wears off over time and should be reapplied periodically. Follow these guidelines for recommended sealing practices.

• Most granite kitchen countertops need to be sealed once a year: Sealing frequency depends on how often you use your kitchen and the type of granite you have. High-use kitchens may benefit from sealing every six months, while less frequently used countertops may only need it every two years.

• Use the water test to determine if your kitchen countertop needs to be sealed: An easy way to check if your granite needs sealing is to perform a water test. Simply pour a few drops of water on the countertop and wait about 10 to 15 minutes. If the water beads up, your seal is still intact. If the water soaks into the stone or darkens the area, it’s time to reseal your countertops.

  If you’ve ever had natural stone countertops before, you might be familiar with this practice as it’s the same test used for sealing marble or quartzite kitchen countertops.

• Use a specialty granite sealant: You can purchase a granite sealant from most home improvement stores or online. Sealing your granite countertops is a simple process you can do yourself.

  Start by thoroughly cleaning the surface and allowing it to dry completely. After your countertop is clean, take a soft cloth or sponge and apply the recommended amount of sealant according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Let the sealant sit for 15 to 30 minutes (depending on the time specified in the instructions), and then wipe off any excess. Allow the countertop to dry for several hours before using it.

How to Care For Your Granite After It’s Sealed

After you’ve sealed your granite kitchen countertops, follow these steps to avoid damage and keep them in great condition for as long as possible.

• Keep an eye on hot objects: While granite is heat-resistant, it’s always a good idea to use trivets or hot pads when placing hot trays and pans on the countertop. Extreme temperature changes can potentially weaken the granite, or in extreme cases, create cracks.
• Use a cutting board: Always use cutting boards when preparing food. Although granite is scratch resistant, using a cutting board is key in avoiding damaging the countertop or dulling your knives.
• Use coasters: Although granite is resistant to many stains, it’s wise to use coasters under glasses, especially for beverages that can leave rings or stains, such as coffee, wine, and soda. This will keep your sealant strong for longer.
• Deep clean every one to two months: Although daily cleaning is important, performing a deep clean once a month can help maintain the sealant and preserve the shine of the granite. Doing so helps your kitchen countertops look like the showstopper that makes you love your kitchen.

Beautiful Granite Kitchen Countertops Start With You

Granite kitchen countertops are a stunning and functional centerpiece of your kitchen and can last for decades with proper care and maintenance. As long as you seal them as recommended and take care with spills, you’re likely to see a lifetime of service from this durable, natural material.