How to Maintain Natural Beauty of Granite Counter Top?

A granite counter top is among the most popular work surface coverings chosen by homeowners not only for its natural beauty but also for its durability and versatility. But in order to keep a granite counter top looking shiny and beautiful, there are some key maintenance steps that must be followed.

If you spill your morning orange or Tomato Juice onto a granite counter top, leave dribbles from a bottle of wine, or top over your coffee mug, it’s important to blot up all liquids as quickly as possible. Use a soft rag or a damp sponge to soak up all the spilled liquid so that it will not stain your granite counter top. Get into the habit of placing a coaster under glassware and bottles when setting them atop any granite surface to avoid having liquid stain the surface.

Never use a steel wool pad or other abrasive cleaning cloth on a granite counter top as these can leave the granite looking dull. Chemical cleaners are also not advised because those containing acidic ingredients will make the granite counter top more porous to absorbing any spilled liquids. Dish detergents, especially those containing lemon, orange or ammonia ingredients, are also not recommended for cleaning a granite counter top. Invest in a stone cleaner designed for granite available from your local hardware supply store and apply it with a soft damp sponge prior to polishing the area with a soft cotton cloth or paper towel.

Never place a hot pot from the stove directly onto a granite counter top. Dirt, dust or grit that gets between the granite surface and the bottom of the pot might mar the counter top. And although granite is among the hardest of surfaces, extreme exposure to heat might cause it to crack.

If you notice your granite counter top absorbing moisture, it’s a good idea to apply a sealant, but no more often than once a year. Use a natural sealant containing fatty acids rather than something acrylic that won’t allow the granite to breathe.

After making a sizeable investment to install a granite counter top in your kitchen, taking daily steps to care for your granite counter top will keep it looking beautiful and new.