Granite

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

1. Daily Cleaning: Clean the surface regularly using a soft cloth or sponge and a mild cleaner diluted in warm water to help keep your surface looking pristine every single day.
2. Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Cleaners containing acids or harsh chemicals can dull the finish or dampen the granite sealer. Use a pH-neutral solution safe for use in natural stones.
3. Prevent Scratches and Heat: Even though granite is hard, use cutting boards and hot pads to protect the surface from heat exposure or impact from sharp objects. 
4. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Constant exposure to direct sunlight will darken granite countertops over time. Use window shields or curtains to minimize damage.
5. Seal the Surface: Apply a high-quality sealant so that your granite countertops are less likely to penetrate liquids, develop stains, and scratch the surface.
6. Regular Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance tasks such as dusting or wiping down the surfaces. Consider resealing at regular intervals, typically twice a year.

How to Protect Granite Countertops

Clean Spills Promptly: Wipe up spills as quickly as possible to prevent potential staining. Blot the spill using a dry, neat cloth and rinse the area with a mild cleaner and water.

Use Trivets or Hot Pads: Placing hot kitchen utensils directly on your granite countertops may discolor the stone. Using trivets or hot pads is one way to avoid heat damage, especially in kitchen countertops.

Avoid Impact Damage: Despite being a hard surface, your granite countertops may not survive the impact of intense pressure. Exercise caution when dealing with heavy objects to prevent unsightly chips or cracks.

Use Cutting Boards: Even though granite countertops are safe to use knives or sharp objects directly, placing cutting boards can ensure the best protection for your surface despite high use.

Regular Cleaning: Don’t forget to keep your granite countertops neat and clean after every use. Spills or certain substances left to sit for a while can potentially stain or discolor the surface.

Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Using harsh chemicals like bleach and acidic cleaners or scrubbing with a hard brush is enough to damage the sealant and the stone’s glossy shine.

Avoid Placing Hot Objects Directly: Your granite kitchen countertops are at a higher risk of discoloration or cracks if too much heat comes in contact frequently. Use protective mats when placing hot pans or utensils on the surface.

Avoid Scrubbing Forcefully: Scrubbing your granite surfaces with too much force is rarely recommended, use only soft cloths or brushes to wipe down

Avoid Standing or Sitting on Your Granite Countertops: Despite being hard, granite is not a flexible stone. Preventing excess weight load on your countertops may avoid potential cracks or impact damage.

Avoid Putting Harsh Chemicals Directly on the Surface: Despite being acid resistant, granite can etch from prolonged contact with acidic products or harsh chemicals. Make sure to keep them away from your granite surfaces.

How to Clean Unusual / Stubborn Stains

Organic Stains (e.g., Coffee, Wine)

• Make a paste with baking soda and water; apply on the stained area.
• Let the paste sit for several hours or overnight to absorb the stain.
• Scrub the affected area using a soft brush or sponge.
• Rinse the stained area thoroughly and leave it to dry.

Oil Stains (e.g., Grease, Cooking Oil)

• Apply a poultice made of flour or baking soda and a small amount of hydrogen peroxide.
• Spread the poultice over the stained surface and cover it.
• Allow the poultice to sit overnight to draw out the oil.
• Remove the poultice, rinse it with clean water, and let it dry.

Ink Stains

• Apply rubbing alcohol or acetone to a clean cloth.
• Gently blot the stained area with the cloth until the ink disappears.
• Rinse the stained area with water and leave it to dry.

Water Stains/Hard Water Deposits

• Make a paste with baking soda and water or a mixture of vinegar and water.
• Apply the paste or solution to the stained area and let it sit for several minutes.
• Scrub the stained surface with a soft brush or sponge.
• Rinse the affected area with clean water and keep the surface dry.

Rust Stains

• Apply a commercial rust remover specifically designed for use on stone surfaces.
• Read the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.
• Rinse the rust stains with water and let it dry.

Etch Marks (e.g., from Acidic Substances)

• Etch marks are difficult to remove and may require professional restoration.
• If the etch mark is minor, try polishing the area with a marble polish powder.
• For severe etching, better consult a professional stone care specialist.