Granite is a popular countertop material partly because it’s easy to care for, but it does have a few special needs. Cleaning it incorrectly can leave behind scratches, stains, or etchings on the finished surface that are difficult to remove. To protect your granite countertop and keep it beautiful for many years to come, follow these simple cleaning tips.

Do:

Use the right cleaning products.

Granite can be sensitive, so you need only the mildest cleaners. A cloth or sponge with warm water and a few drops of dish soap is plenty for everyday cleaning; it will help you remove any dried or sticky food residue and sanitize the counter. 

Rinse with water afterward and wipe the counter dry to avoid water spots. For a more intensive clean, use a specially formulated granite countertop cleaner from a local hardware or grocery store.

Wipe up spills immediately.

The more quickly you clean up spilled liquids, the less chance they have to sit on the counter and soak. This is especially important for colored liquids like soap or oils, which can stain the surface, and acidic ones like orange juice or vinegar that can leave etchings. It’s also easier to clean up liquids while they’re fresh, and you’re less likely to scratch the countertop than if you try to remove dried-on residue later.

Don’t:

Use harsh chemicals.

Bleach and ammonia are popular multipurpose cleaners, but they’re not appropriate for a granite countertop. Both are corrosive and will eat away at the smooth finish of your counter. Not only does this create visible marks, but it also leaves the surface more porous, which means it’s more likely to harbor bacteria in the future. If you want to try a new cleaner, test a very small corner of the counter first before using it on a wider area.

Scrub with steel wool.

Harsh scrubbing tools like steel wool are harder than the natural stone of your countertop. This means they can leave scratches. Buffing out shallow scratches is difficult, and deep ones may never come out. Instead, if there’s a stubborn mess on your granite countertop, try soaking the area with clean water to loosen it.

If you want to add a granite countertop during your kitchen remodeling project, call Greenhill Monuments & Countertops in Florence, AL. Serving Lauderdale County for over 125 years, this small-town company offers a wide selection of high-quality granite, quartz, and marble products custom-made to your specifications. They also proudly offer a 10% discount for veterans. To get started, call (256) 272-0682 or learn more about their fabrication and installation services online.