Contemporary kitchens are incomplete without granite countertops. Unlike other stones such as marble, quartzite, or sandstone, granite countertops improve the aesthetic. They are also more beautiful, durable, and require low maintenance. That’s why people love to install them in their kitchens, floors, etc. However, it’s important to maintain them to retain their shine and elegance.
How Do I Maintain Granite Countertops? Quick Cleaning Tips
Granite is one of the most sought-after kitchen countertops among homeowners. With their sheer elegance, style, and sophistication, granite countertops are known to increase the value of any property. However, to avoid scratches and cracks, they must be maintained regularly.
Here are The Quick and Result-Proven Cleaning Tips
Wipe Them Down Regularly
The first step is maintaining the shine and cleanliness of your granite countertops. Post-using your kitchen, get a cloth and wipe it down to clean potential stains of liquids, acids, and sauces. Make sure to use a soft and damp microfiber cloth to wipe granite countertops to avoid scratches.
Remove The Stubborn Stain Carefully
It’s quite obvious to get stubborn stains on your granite countertops. It happens when they are exposed to acidic oils or substances. Don’t fret! Make a mixture of baking soda and water to apply with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth on the stain. Massage on the stain gently and rinse it carefully with water. Ensure to repeat the process until the stain is removed.
Reseal If Required
It is also an important process to maintain your granite countertops. Not every granite countertop needs to be sealed. One has to perform a check to start the resealing process. If you are not sure, then just spill some water on the surface to create a small puddle. In case water beads up instantly, it’s perfectly fine. If the water starts to sink while leaving a dark spot, then you have to reseal it before any further damage.
Add Oil To Retain The Shine
To enhance the shine of your granite countertops, you can add a little bit of oil to the surface while cleaning with a soft microfiber cloth. You need to wipe the oil across the countertop occasionally to keep staining at bay.
Use Coasters
When you choose to use coasters to keep glasses, cans, or bottles, then you smartly keep stains and scratches away from the granite countertops and keep them in good shape.
Use Cutting Boards
Instead of cutting or chopping right on the granite countertops, use cutting boards, as they may obtain scratches from the sharp knife’s edges.
Avoid Keeping Hot Pans On The Surface
Many people keep hot pans on the granite countertops. Although granite is a highly durable stone and hardly cracks, excessive and continuous heat can cause long-lasting damage to the stone.
What Should You Avoid While Caring For Granite Countertops?
There are certain things that one must avoid while using or caring for granite countertops.
Avoid Using Regular Cleaning Products
This is the biggest mistake that people make while cleaning granite countertops. If you want to retain the shine of your granite countertops, then don’t use any generic cleaning products. There are many cleaning products available on the market, such as bleaches, degreasers, etc., that are too harsh for granite countertops. They can cause potential damage in the form of stains, damage, or minimize sealer integrity. Consult professional countertops experts such as Stone Valley Work Surfaces.
Avoid Using Chemicals Or Mixtures
Many people use mixtures by blending some chemicals and ingredients, such as vinegar, orange, or lemon. Such alkaline or acidic substances can cause potential damage to the countertops. It’s better to use warm water for regular cleaning sessions.
Avoid Using Bathroom or Tile Cleaners
Bathroom or tile cleaners contain tiny abrasives that can potentially scratch or minimize the shine of your granite countertops.
Don’t Sit or Stand on Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are sturdy and durable. But it doesn’t mean you start sitting or standing on the surface. Since they don’t have a plywood backing, the excess weight can cause cracks in a particular area.
Refrain From Keeping Toiletries Or Liquids On The Surface
Last but certainly not least, don’t keep liquid bottles or toiletries on the surface. Bottles of perfume, cooking oil, etc. can leak and cause serious stains to the countertops. Hence, avoid them.
Why Choose Stone Valley Work Surfaces for Granite Countertops?
Stone Valley Work Surfaces is one of the leading and reputed suppliers of granite countertops in Manchester. The brand has years of experience in offering the best granite, quartz, dekton, Corian, cimstone, etc. work surfaces or countertops for kitchens all across the North West region of the UK. If you want to buy granite countertops in Bolton or granite worktops in Blackburn, then visit the store today. With a team of experts, the brand acts as a supplier and installation and maintenance expert in the UK.
