Maintenance of Granite Countertops for lasting elegance
Your granite countertop unit adds elegance to your kitchen. Without proper maintenance your granite countertops are likely to be affected by materials that contain citrus or alcohol content. Acidic food items and very hot objects are detrimental to granite countertops. Use mats or trivets to keep plates and other containers on the granite countertop to prevent scratches and heat damage.
Tips for granite countertop maintenance
Granite countertops are very durable and relatively easy to clean with mild cleaning solutions. However unless the proper cleaning method is applied and the right cleaning materials are used, the surface of granite countertops can be damaged with scratches resulting in the loss of luster and elegance.
Use mild detergent and soft cloth for cleaning
In order to maintain the shine and beauty of your granite countertops, we strongly recommend that you use only a soft cloth and neutral cleaner or stone soap or a mild detergent and warm water. Do not use any abrasive items to clean the surface of granite countertops to prevent scratches.
Stain Removal
In the event of spills or stains on granite countertops units, use a paper towel immediately and gently blot the spill. Use plain water and mild soap and rinse several times. Dry the area thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Oil Based Stains
Oil based stains on your granite countertop surface can be removed using a soft liquid cleanser, soft cloth and warm water. Organic stains such as tea, coffee or citrus stains can be removed using 12% hydrogen peroxide solution and a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and use a dry soft cloth to wipe off the moisture.
Metal Stains
Metal stains must be removed using a poultice or it may become permanently stained. With a plastic or wooden scraper you can remove curdled paint or sludge. Stains of oil-based paints, linseed oil, putty, and sealants can be removed with mild detergents and soft cloth.
Biological Agents Stains
Stains due to biological agents such as mildew, or mold and ink stains can be cleaned by using dilute hydrogen peroxide solution and a soft cloth.
Water Spots / Hard Water Stains
If you notice water spots and rings caused by the accumulation of hard water on your granite countertop surfaces you can buff it using dry steel wool. Sometimes a white powder deposit called efflorescence appears on granite countertop surfaces. You can remove it using a dust mop or you can vacuum the powder.
Etch Marks Removal
Mild etch marks from the surface can be removed by moistening the surface and polishing using marble polishing powder. Polish with a soft, damp cloth or with a buffing pad until the etch mark disappears.
Oil Based Stain Removal
To remove oil based stains and organic stains from granite countertop units, a poultice may be used. This is followed by cleaning with light detergent using a soft cloth.
Your beautiful countertop is an asset for your kitchen. By following these tips and careful maintenance of your granite countertops, you can retain its beauty and for a long time.
