How to Keep Your Granite Countertops Looking as Good as New

Granite countertops are beautiful additions to any space. It adds a classy finish to your kitchen or bathroom and has many benefits, from durability to heat resistance. Not only is it beautiful and durable, but flexible as well. The volcanic rock also comes in various shades to suit your decor.

But if you fail to take good care of your granite countertops, they could quickly become lackluster. Learn how to take great care of your granite countertops and keep them looking as good as new.

Regular Cleans

With granite, dealing with spills should be straightforward. Here are tips for cleaning these stylish surfaces optimally:

In the absence of any meal prep, your counter will require only a wipe with a wet or dry microfiber cloth. But if you need to do more than dust-busting, you're going to need a cleaner that is granite-safe. Acidic products, including lemon or vinegar, don't fit the bill.

Mild dish soap will work just fine, though. Give your granite countertops a daily wipe-down with a soft sponge and warm, soapy water. 

Work on stubborn cooking oil stains by applying a mixture of flour or baking soda combined with a few tablespoons of mild soap. Let this rest under plastic wrap overnight before cleaning it off, rinsing, and drying. 

You can consider using a specialized stone cleaner spray or wipe weekly.

Keep Counter Color in Mind

It's worth noting that darker granite colors cut down on cleaning time as they are less likely to show dirt. But if you have your heart set on a lighter granite, the trick to getting rid of stains is to tend to them swiftly before discoloration sets in. Be particularly wary of acidic foods such as ketchup or wine.

Annual Checks

Only sealed granite is impermeable. The parts of your counter where you often set things down can become worn and porous, and the unsealed stone is susceptible to damage from juice and other products. You'll need to confirm if your counter needs resealing with an easy test or two. 

The Seal Test

Sprinkle some water on your counter. The water should bead up. If it flows, you've got some maintenance to do. Alternatively, wait ten minutes after splashing water and see if the counter has darkened after you wipe the water away. 

Fixing Problems

Your granite provider should be able to tell you whether you can apply a sealant solution from the hardware store by yourself or whether you need to enlist help for repairs. You may also be able to do a DIY rust removal or patch a divot after conducting spot tests. 

However, be sure to call a reliable professional if you notice significant scratches or cracks on your countertops to prevent further more costly damage.