Known for their polished and shiny finish, granite countertops are the most common natural stone surface. If you love to cook in the kitchen, granite countertops are a great addition to your home. Granite is one of the most durable countertop materials on the market. It resists everyday wear and tear well and is scratch resistant. It also resists high temperatures well. Granite is a fairly dense but still porous material, so it tends to absorb liquids. To maintain the integrity of the granite stone, sealant is used over the countertops. If you apply the sealant annually, your granite countertop will last you for years, maintaining its pristine appearance. Sealant also protects granite countertops from stains and scratches. A common misconception among granite countertop owners is that they need professional services to re-seal their countertops. You can purchase a natural stone sealer and apply it yourself to preserve the natural luster of the granite and protect it from damage. Applying the sealant is not difficult. Just follow the instructions on the sealant package, and repeat the procedure at least once a year.
It’s important for homeowners to clean granite surfaces regularly, especially those that are used more, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. Cleaning your countertops regularly will help get rid of germs and give it a fresh and shiny finish. Keeping your granite countertops clean is just as important as sealing them. Below, we’ll tell you how to sanitize your granite countertops and make them shine.
You will need:
- Sprayer;
- Warm water;
- A soft cloth or paper towel;
- Dishwashing detergent;
- Essential oil (if desired);
- Medical alcohol.
There are two recommended ways to clean and disinfect granite countertops, each using items available to everyone. The first method, which we highly recommend, is antibacterial dishwashing detergent and water. The second method is a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water.
If you need a stronger cleaning solution, you can use rubbing alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol, commonly known as medical alcohol mixed with water, is an effective disinfectant solution for treating granite. You can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to add a pleasant fragrance. In a spray bottle, prepare a 50/50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water. One cup of alcohol and one cup of water is sufficient. Spray the entire rack with the water and alcohol mixture and wait five minutes. After five minutes, wipe the moisture from the countertop surface with a clean kitchen towel, using a wide S-shaped motion.
There are also special granite cleaners, so if you want to make the cleaning process quick and easy, you can purchase a granite cleaner. No matter which method you choose, remember that proper care of granite surfaces is the key to their longevity.
How do you keep your granite shiny?
If you have matte granite, using special granite shine products or polish is the best way to keep your granite countertops shiny. There are recipes online that use small amounts of vegetable oil to treat granite surfaces, but we don’t recommend it. Using a specialized polishing agent every two to three weeks will keep your granite countertops clean and looking like new.
Items to help preserve granite surfaces
Although granite countertops are extremely durable, resistant to heat, scratches and stains, it’s still best to be careful when using them to preserve the beauty of your granite.
Cutting boards: It is highly recommended to use a cutting board on granite surfaces. This will prevent marks on the surface itself as well as keep knives sharp. Because granite countertops are very durable, they will dull sharp kitchen utensils.
Coasters: using a coaster in the home will help prevent beverage marks on the surface of the countertop.
Hot Coasters: if you’ve ever had non-tolerant countertops, you definitely have a hot coaster. This is a great precaution, no matter what kind of countertop you have.
What not to use in the care of your granite surface, so that you don’t have to deal with unpleasant consequences later on?
Acidic, alkaline or aggressive cleaners should not be used to clean granite. Beware of common household products such as nail polish remover, glass cleaner and bleach. All of these products should never be used when cleaning or disinfecting granite countertops, as these substances can weaken the sealant of the granite surface.
What kind of stains can be on granite?
Granite is a low-maintenance countertop material. Granite is a very durable stone that is resistant to scratches, cracks and chips. Unfortunately, these countertops are not 100% stain resistant.
There are two types of stains that appear on granite surfaces: organic stains and oil-based stains. Organic stains are caused by spilled coffee, tea, wine, fruit juice or groceries. Oil-based stains caused by nail polish, cosmetics or vegetable oil. Fortunately, these stains won’t ruin granite countertops, and they are easy to remove.
How do I remove a stain from granite?
As with cleaning granite, there is a remedy for removing stains from granite at home that does not require the purchase of additional products. Make a paste of baking soda and water. Use the paste to clean the granite surface using a soft-bristle brush, sponge or washcloth. For stubborn stains, you may have to repeat the procedure a second time.
Steps for removing stains from granite
Step 1:
Apply a granite cleaner or baking soda and water paste. Leave it on for a few minutes or until completely dry.
Step 2:
Rub gently with a soft-bristle brush or sponge.
Step 3:
Rinse with warm water and wipe with a microfiber cloth.
Good products for cleaning and disinfecting granite: antibacterial soap, isopropyl alcohol, special granite cleaners
Bad granite cleaners and disinfectants: acidic cleaners (like vinegar), harsh cleaners (like Clorox Bleach, Windex and Lysol), alkaline cleaners (like sodium hydroxide).
And remember, granite countertops are an investment in your home, so take care of their appearance. Follow our simple recommendations and your countertop will last for many years without losing its shine.
