Granite countertops are trendy in homes and businesses across the United States, but they can be tough to maintain without ruining them. Besides, if you use the wrong cleaning products, you could erode the Granite’s surface and cause it to flake away or absorb liquids and discolor over time. Follow these five quick yet easy steps to clean your granite countertops without ruining them.
Tips To Clean Granite Countertops
- Understand why Granite needs special care
Granite is a special type of stone made from quartz and feldspar. Quartz naturally resists staining, but its hardness can be affected by high concentrations of acids. It’s also porous, which means that anything applied to Granite will remain on its surface unless a sealant is applied after cleaning it. For these reasons, acidic and abrasive cleaners should be avoided when cleaning granite countertops or at least used in moderation.
- Use mild soap and water to wipe it down with a microfiber cloth.
Like most stone products, granite countertops require a gentle touch. So when you’re cleaning your counter, avoid using steel wool or any abrasive material. Instead, opt for mild soap and water with a microfiber cloth. This is one of the best ways to clean granite countertops without ruining them and ensure you get them nice and shiny in no time.
- Use warm water and baking soda when you have tough stains.
When cleaning granite countertops, try a gentle mixture of warm water and baking soda. This simple solution can help loosen stains and get your counters looking brand new again. And, it’s easy on your Silestone surfaces, so you don’t have to worry about damaging or changing their original look. If you need more heavy-duty cleaning power, grab some vinegar or another natural stain remover for tough situations.
- Never use chemicals on your granite surface.
Like Silestone and Caesarstone, Ceramic products are often made from Granite, so you don’t have to worry about using chemicals on them. The porous stone will absorb any liquid residue into its surface, and it can be challenging to get rid of. This leaves your countertop looking dull and unattractive over time. Instead of chemical cleaners, opt for warm water with a mild soap.
- Never scrub your Granite too hard, or it will scratch.
Using too much pressure can damage your Granite when you clean, so always start by scrubbing gently. If a spill is particularly stubborn, spray it with warm water and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it up. When rinsing, avoid pouring water directly onto your countertop; if you need a lot of water to do an excellent cleaning job, use an old sponge or cloth instead.
- Never use metal on your surfaces, or you’ll scratch them badly.
If you don’t know how to clean granite countertops, your first instinct will be some rubbing. But that could ruin your countertop. When you use metal on Granite, it scratches it and leaves horrible brown marks in a concise amount of time. To clean granite countertops without ruining them, stick with natural materials—like wood or cotton—that can absorb liquids and won’t scratch up your surfaces.
The Bottom Line
Granite countertops are a beautiful and popular addition to any home, but they require special care to keep them looking their best. Moreover, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, and never scrub too hard, or you could scratch the surface. Instead, opt for mild soap and water with a microfiber cloth or warm water and baking soda mixture. With a bit of care, your granite countertops will stay shining and beautiful for years to come.
Moreover, if you need stone products for your home, check out our wide selection of high-quality granite countertops! We offer a variety of colors and styles to choose from. Our stone supplies are perfect for any budget, so you can find the ideal granite countertop for your home without breaking the bank. Contact us today to learn more about our products or place an order!