Call nowGranite countertops are a go-to choice for homeowners looking for a next-level countertop for their kitchen or bathroom. The material is durable and can last anywhere from 10-15 years if they’re cared for properly.
However, granite requires extra care and attention if you want to maintain its natural beauty of the stone. If you let stains sit for too long or you aren’t using the right granite countertop cleaner, they may not last nearly as long as you want them to.
We’re here to walk you through everything you need to know to maintain, clean, and care for kitchen granite countertops.
Let’s take a closer look:
Everyday Cleaning Tips
Have the Right Cleaning Products
If you didn’t know: Most regular household cleaning products aren’t suitable for granite countertops. They typically contain abrasive chemicals that can take away from the beauty of your granite.
Avoid using glass cleaners, bleach, vinegar, or other generic cleaners you have around the house. Instead, you’ll want a granite countertop cleaner specifically formulated to clean stone.
This is because a stone-based cleaner has low acidity and is pH neutral.
Keep Up With the Upkeep
We get it. Life gets busy. It’s easy to put granite countertop maintenance at the low end of your priority list. However, if you want to properly care for your kitchen granite countertops and maintain their natural beauty, you’ll want to set aside time to give them the upkeep and care they need.
Clean Spills As Soon As They Happen
If you leave spills, they turn into stains. Stains can be tricky to remove from your granite countertops, so you’ll want to act quickly and efficiently.
Tackling Common Types of Stains
Oil Based Stains
Oil-based stains are caused by grease, milk, or oil. They can be tricky to remove from your countertops if they sit too long.
Here’s how to remove these stains:
- Mix baking soda and water in a bowl until it’s a paste consistency
- Apply the paste over the stain and wrap it in plastic wrap.
- Poke holes in the plastic wrap for ventilation
- Let this mixture sit for several hours
Rust Stains
If you have a rust stain on your counter, it will typically look the color of copper and have a metallic look. If you aren’t sure, run your finger against it.
Rust stains have a rough texture. These are some of the hardest stains to remove from granite. You’ll want to look for a rust remover liquid.
Paint Stains
Stains caused by paint, ink, or permanent marker can be removed using a razor blade. Hold the razor blade flat on the counter and chip away the excess paint until it’s gone.
Water Stains
If your granite isn’t properly sealed, you could run into issues with water-based stains. These are stains caused by common liquids such as juice, wine, coffee, water, and other drinks.
If any liquid is left overnight or longer, it could result in a water-based stain. The best way to eliminate these stains is with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. You’ll want to wrap it in plastic wrap, the same way you would with an oil-based stain.
Resealing Your Granite Countertops
If you’ve had your granite for some time and stains are starting to become a problem, it may need to be resealed. To check, you’ll want to pour a small amount of water on the counter. Let it sit for 10 minutes. If the water beads, your counters won’t need to be resealed. If the water sinks down, you’ll want to reseal your counters.
Here’s what to do if they need to be resealed.
Find a Sealer
Finding a trusted sealer is essential. You’ll want to do your research and check reviews before going with a random sealer you find online. If you aren’t sure which to use for your granite, you can get in touch with us for a FREE estimate, and we will repair it for you.
Cleanse Your Countertops
Before you reseal, cleanse your countertops as you would any other day. You’ll also want to remove everything from the counter.
Apply The Sealer
Next, it’s time to apply the sealer. Follow the instructions on the product label. Most require you to coat your countertop with the sealant and let it sit for 5-15 minutes. Depending on how quickly it absorbs, you may need to add an additional coat. After 5-15 minutes, wipe off the sealer and let your counters sit for 24 hours.
Work with a professional granite countertop repair service
Sometimes, cleaning and upkeep is not enough. If your granite has dings, cracks, or scratches and needs to be replaced, get in touch with us and we will repair it for you. We will be able to help you replace your granite countertops and bring your counters back to life.
For over 15 years, Affordable Granite Concepts has been helping homeowners in the Orlando and Central Florida area with fabrication, installation, and replacements.
Contact us today if you need a granite countertop repair service or are ready to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom.
