You’re probably used to guests complimenting your granite countertops by now because they make your bathroom and kitchen look chic and complete. However, your countertops are likely covered in fingerprints and streaks by now, and you may be feeling too ashamed to show them off. Keep on reading to learn how to make your granite countertops shine.
What Happens If I Don’t Clean My Granite Countertops?
With proper care, countertops made of granite can last a lifetime. Granite is an investment for your home because of its durability, but as with anything else of value, it needs to be taken care of. If you neglect your countertops or use the wrong cleaning products, they’ll become dull and develop stains. It’s best to take care of stains while they’re fresh instead of waiting because then they’re challenging to remove.
These countertops don’t need much care, but part of your daily maintenance routine should be dedicated to giving them a light cleaning with a towel. Don’t worry about scrubbing them or using cleaning products; all you have to do is wipe away oil spills and any sauces left behind from cooking. A quick cleaning every day ensures there are no liquids left behind that can saturate into the stone.
Mitigate the risk of damage and stains by sealing your countertops to repel liquids before they can penetrate them. Avoid using everyday household cleaners because they contain corrosive or acidic chemicals, such as vinegar and lemon juice, which can damage your granite’s finish.
How Do I Clean My Granite Countertops?
Make it a goal to clean your countertops once a week thoroughly. You’ll need the following materials:
- Mild dish soap
- Microfiber cloths
- Baking soda
- Soft sponge
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Bowl
- Spoon
- Plastic wrap
Step 1: For weekly cleaning, your safest bet is sticking to mild dish soap that’s been diluted with water. Wet your sponge and squirt soap onto the center of it. Because granite scratches easily, you must apply the solution with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth. Avoid using an abrasive scrubber.
Step 2: Massage the sponge or cloth until you see suds. Wring it out, so you don’t compromise your surfaces. If you don’t wring it out, you’ll leave behind standing water that will discolor your countertops.
Step 3: Gently wipe across your surfaces in small, circular motions. Food splatter will require more elbow grease, but this non-abrasive method works well to clean off most gunk.
Step 4: Dry off your countertops to protect them from water damage and to eliminate streaks.
Step 5: Once you’re done with the mild cleaning, you’ll need to focus on removing stains. Mix baking soda with hydrogen peroxide in a bowl until it becomes a thick paste. Spread the mix over your stain and cover it with plastic wrap; leave it covered overnight.
Contact Granite 4 Less
If your granite countertops are a few decades old and are covered in scratches, then you should consider replacing them. Granite 4 Less specializes in granite countertop fabrication and installation. Discuss your ideas with us, and our team will turn your vision into reality. Contact us today.