How to Clean and Maintain Your Granite Surfaces Without Damaging Them
Granite is a popular choice for kitchen countertops because of its durability, beauty, and variety of colors. However, granite also requires some care and maintenance to keep it looking its best and prevent damage.
In this blog post, we will share some tips on cleaning and maintaining your granite surfaces without damaging them.
Understanding Granite Surfaces
Granite’s toughness and resilience, primarily composed of quartz, mica, and feldspar, make it resistant to scratches and abrasions and able to withstand high-traffic areas in homes and businesses. Also, it can resist heat, making it ideal for use in kitchens.
One of the main reasons for granite’s popularity is its elegance. Each slab is a natural work of art, with intricate patterns and a spectrum of colors that can complement any decor style, ranging from deep, rich blacks and blues to vibrant reds and earthy browns.
However, granite has its challenges, particularly its porosity. Though less porous than other natural stones, it can still absorb liquids, which can lead to stains if not properly sealed and maintained. Moreover, harsh cleaning chemicals or abrasive materials can dull its polished finish, which takes away its natural sheen. Therefore, understanding these challenges is crucial in preserving the beauty and functionality of granite surfaces.
The Risks of Improper Cleaning
When it comes to granite maintenance, the line between keeping it pristine and inadvertently causing harm can be finer than one might expect. Understanding the pitfalls of improper cleaning is crucial to ensure the longevity and beauty of your granite surfaces.
One of the most common mistakes in granite care is the use of inappropriate cleaning products. It’s a natural instinct to reach for that powerful, all-purpose cleaner under the sink, but this is where caution is needed. Many of these cleaners contain harsh chemicals like ammonia, vinegar, or lemon juice. While effective on other surfaces, they can be detrimental to granite. These acidic substances can etch the surface, leading to dull spots known as “glass rings,” and can break down the sealant, making the granite more susceptible to staining.
Similarly, abrasive cleaners or scrub pads are a no-go for granite. While granite is known for its hardness and durability, its polished finish is not immune to the scratches and dullness that abrasive materials can cause. The aim is always to preserve the smooth, glossy sheen that makes granite so visually appealing.
Another often overlooked risk is letting spills sit for too long. Granite’s porosity varies, but even well-sealed granite can absorb liquids if they’re not promptly cleaned up, especially if the liquid is oil-based or highly pigmented, like red wine or coffee.
Benefits of Using the Right Products
Cleaning products can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to the care of your granite surfaces. The importance of selecting the right cleaning products cannot be overstated. Using the appropriate cleaner not only preserves the strength and beauty of your granite but also extends its life.
MARBLELIFE® Granite Countertop Cleaner is a game-changer in granite maintenance. This product stands out from regular cleaning products in several key ways. Firstly, it is specifically formulated for granite, ensuring that it cleans effectively without causing any harm to the stone. Unlike acidic or abrasive cleaners, MARBLELIFE® Granite Countertop Cleaner is non-acidic, which means it cleans without etching the surface or diminishing the sealant.
Moreover, its unique formulation is designed to tackle the specific types of stains and spills that are most common on granite surfaces, ensuring that your countertops remain spotless and hygienic without any residue.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Granite Surfaces
- Pre-cleaning Steps: Begin by gently wiping down your granite with a soft, dry cloth to remove any loose debris or crumbs. This step prevents any abrasive particles from scratching the surface during the cleaning process. Next, assess the surface for any tough stains or spills that might need special attention.
- Using MARBLELIFE® Granite Countertop Cleaner: For the cleaning process, spray a modest amount of the cleaner directly onto the granite surface. Using a clean, soft microfiber cloth, wipe the surface in a circular motion, ensuring even coverage. The beauty of MARBLELIFE® cleaner is its efficiency — it requires no harsh scrubbing, as its formula is designed to lift dirt and stains gently.
- Tips for Thorough but Gentle Cleaning: Always use a soft cloth to avoid scratching the granite’s finish. For stubborn stains, allow the cleaner to sit for a few minutes to penetrate the stain before wiping it away. After cleaning, it’s advisable to rinse the surface with water to ensure no cleaning residue remains, and then dry with a separate clean cloth. This final step will enhance the stone’s natural shine and prevent any water spots.
Professional Care and Restoration
While regular maintenance and the right cleaning techniques can go a long way in preserving the strength of your granite surfaces, there are times when professional expertise becomes indispensable. Understanding when to seek professional help for restoration is key to ensuring your granite maintains its timeless elegance and durability.
When to Seek Professional Help?
If your granite surfaces have deep stains, chips, cracks, or have dulled significantly, it’s time to call in the professionals. These issues often require more than just surface cleaning; they need specialized treatment that only experienced professionals can provide.
Also, if your granite has lost its shine or the sealant has worn off, professional resealing and polishing are necessary to restore its protective layer and luster.
Are you unsure about the condition of your granite surfaces, or are you considering a professional restoration? MARBLELIFE® offers a free consultation to assess your needs and provide expert advice. Contact us today to ensure that your granite surfaces receive the best possible care.
