Granite is one of the strongest and most durable countertop materials available today. Moreover, its easier to clean and maintain than other materials, which tend to suffer even minor neglect. However, it is important to take the right measures to prevent granite from being damaged. Proper use, care and maintenance of this countertop will ensure it remains beautiful and shiny for many years to come. Here are some tips on how to use and maintain granite countertops.
Clean spills immediately
Avoid spilling acidic substances on these countertops as they can etch granite. Although substances, such as wine, tomato sauce, alcoholic beverages, fruit juices, soft drinks and coffee, may not etch granite as they do to marble, they may stain the countertop if neglected. In addition, cooking oils may also stain the surface if not cleaned up immediately.
Use soft cloth or sponge for cleaning
When doing regular cleanings and wiping up spilled liquids, it is advisable to use paper towels, soft cloth or sponge. You can use damp rags to get rid of sticky residues from the surface. Use dish soap and warm water to clean China granite, but remember, repeated and excessive use of the soap may turn the surface dull. Dont use steel wool and other related cleaning products to clean granite.
Dont add weight to the edges
Avoid putting excessive pressure on the countertop edges. Increased weight and pressure may damage the edges. Inappropriate activities, like climbing the countertop to reach a shelf or to clean something and grabbing onto it for balance, must be avoided. This may diminish the attractiveness of the countertop.
Use hot pads
Unlike other surfaces, granite is a very hard stone and so can withstand tons of abuse and heat, without getting damaged. But the granite is made of soft, thin granite strips which their surface area is not wide enough to absorb intense heat from hot pans and pots, making the lustrous surface to chip and scratch. Although scratches do not form easily, it is safe to use hot pads.
Dont use harsh cleaning products
Common household cleaners, like bleach, glass cleaners and kitchen degreasers, contain harsh chemicals such as acids and alkalis. These harsh cleaning products may degrade the sealer, making the granite surface susceptible to staining. Therefore, avoid bathroom, tile, tub or grout cleaners. Moreover, dont use ammonia, orange, lime or vinegar as cleaners.
Granite countertops are unique, durable, elegant and enhance the look of the kitchen. Including the aforementioned tips in your daily cleaning routine would keep them shining in the kitchen for many years.
Clean spills immediately
Avoid spilling acidic substances on these countertops as they can etch granite. Although substances, such as wine, tomato sauce, alcoholic beverages, fruit juices, soft drinks and coffee, may not etch granite as they do to marble, they may stain the countertop if neglected. In addition, cooking oils may also stain the surface if not cleaned up immediately.
Use soft cloth or sponge for cleaning
When doing regular cleanings and wiping up spilled liquids, it is advisable to use paper towels, soft cloth or sponge. You can use damp rags to get rid of sticky residues from the surface. Use dish soap and warm water to clean China granite, but remember, repeated and excessive use of the soap may turn the surface dull. Dont use steel wool and other related cleaning products to clean granite.
Dont add weight to the edges
Avoid putting excessive pressure on the countertop edges. Increased weight and pressure may damage the edges. Inappropriate activities, like climbing the countertop to reach a shelf or to clean something and grabbing onto it for balance, must be avoided. This may diminish the attractiveness of the countertop.
Use hot pads
Unlike other surfaces, granite is a very hard stone and so can withstand tons of abuse and heat, without getting damaged. But the granite is made of soft, thin granite strips which their surface area is not wide enough to absorb intense heat from hot pans and pots, making the lustrous surface to chip and scratch. Although scratches do not form easily, it is safe to use hot pads.
Dont use harsh cleaning products
Common household cleaners, like bleach, glass cleaners and kitchen degreasers, contain harsh chemicals such as acids and alkalis. These harsh cleaning products may degrade the sealer, making the granite surface susceptible to staining. Therefore, avoid bathroom, tile, tub or grout cleaners. Moreover, dont use ammonia, orange, lime or vinegar as cleaners.
Granite countertops are unique, durable, elegant and enhance the look of the kitchen. Including the aforementioned tips in your daily cleaning routine would keep them shining in the kitchen for many years.