Granite Worktop Cleaning and Maintenance: How to Keep Your Worktops Looking Like New
Granite worktops are a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, natural beauty, and resistance to heat and scratches. However, without proper cleaning and maintenance, granite worktops can lose their lustre or even worse, become susceptible to stains. Here we provide a comprehensive guide on how to properly clean and maintain your granite kitchen worktops so you can keep them looking like new! From daily cleaning tips to troubleshooting common cleaning challenges, you’ll learn everything you need to know in order to keep your granite worktops in top shape for years to come.
What You’ll Need: Granite Cleaning Tools and Materials
When it comes to cleaning and maintaining your granite worktops, it’s important to have the right tools and materials on hand. This helps make the process easier, more efficient, and more effective. Basic items that you’ll need include a mild detergent or stone cleaner, a soft cloth or sponge, and a clean, dry microfibre cloth for buffing. You may also want to consider a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for granite, as well as a sealer to protect the surface. Tougher stains might require a specialised cleaner or a poultice. Make sure that you have all the necessary tools and materials ready before you start cleaning your granite worktops!
Preparation: How to Prep Your Granite Worktops for Cleaning
To prepare your granite worktops for cleaning, first clear any clutter or items on the surface. Next, mix a mild detergent such as dish soap with warm water and use a spray bottle for the mixture. Spray the solution onto the worktops and use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the surface, paying extra attention to any stains or tough grime. After you’ve completed this, simply rinse the worktops with warm water and dry with a clean cloth.
Daily Cleaning: Quick and Easy Granite Maintenance Tips
When it comes to daily maintenance, wipe down your granite worktops with a damp cloth or sponge and a mild detergent solution to quickly remove any spills as they happen. This will prevent stains from setting in. Whenever you’re cleaning your worktop, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the granite’s surface. It is a good idea to use a specialist granite cleaner, which will help protect the seal on the worktop, keep it looking like new and extend its lifespan!
Using trivets or coasters under hot pans, and a chopping board rather than cutting directly on the granite surface is also advisable to prevent scratches and heat damage to your worktop.
Removing Stains and Spills on Your Granite Worktop
With granite, it’s crucial to address stains and spills as soon as they happen to prevent them from setting in and becoming harder to remove. Removing stains and spills from granite worktops can be a tricky task, but with the right solutions and techniques, it can be done effectively. For oil-based stains, such as cooking oil or makeup, apply a small amount of baking soda to the stain and then add a few drops of mild washing up liquid. Gently rub the mixture into the stain with a soft cloth, and then wipe it away with a damp cloth. This should do the trick to remove the stain from the surface.
When it comes to water-based stains, such as coffee or tea, use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Apply the mixture to the stain and let it sit for several minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth. If you’re dealing with very tough stains like those created by red wine or ink, you might need to call a worktop professional for help.
Deep Cleaning: How to Restore Your Granite Worktops to Like-New Condition
Deep cleaning your granite worktops is an important step in maintaining their appearance and prolonging their lifespan. To deep clean your worktops, start by clearing the worksurface and wiping it down with a mild detergent solution. Next, use a granite-specific cleaner to thoroughly clean the surface, paying extra attention to any stains or tough grime. Rinse the worktops with warm water and dry with a clean cloth. Afterwards, if your worktops are looking a little dull, you can use a granite-specific polisher to restore their shine. To do this, apply a small amount of polisher to a soft cloth and work in circular motions until the desired shine is achieved. It’s important to deep clean your granite worktops at least once a year to keep them looking like new!
Sealing and Protecting: How to Keep Your Granite Worktops Looking Great
Sealing and protecting your granite worktops is a crucial step in keeping them in good condition and prolonging their lifespan. Granite is a porous material, which means that it can absorb liquids and stains if not properly sealed. Sealing your granite worktops will not only help protect them from stains, but also from damage and bacteria!
To seal your worktops, use a granite-specific sealer that’s appropriate for the type of granite you have in your kitchen or bathroom. Apply the sealer according to the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure to reapply it as needed, which is usually once a year.
What Products Should Be Used to Seal Granite?
There are several different types of worktop sealers you can use to protect your granite surfaces, which are as follows: –
- Penetrating sealers: Are designed to penetrate the granite and form a barrier against liquids and stains. Often made from silicone or other synthetic ingredients, this type of sealer is easy to apply with a brush or roller.
- Topical sealers: Form a protective layer on top of the granite that repels liquids and stains. They’re typically made from a blend of waxes and polymers and are easy to apply with a cloth or brush.
- Impregnator sealers: Work similarly to penetrating sealers, but they’re not visible on the surface and provide extra protection compared to penetrating sealers.
Before applying any sealer it’s essential to first test a small, discreet area of your worktop, and especially if you’re unsure about the sealer’s reaction to your specific granite surface. Also remember to check the manufacturer’s instructions and follow the recommended application method and frequency. You should keep in mind that no sealer will make granite completely immune to stains, but it will make make cleaning and maintaining them much easier!
Troubleshooting: How to Handle Common Cleaning Challenges
One of the most common challenges people encounter when cleaning their granite worktop is dealing with tough stains that don’t come out with regular cleaning methods. In cases like these, it’s important to use a specialised stain remover specifically formulated for granite.
Another common challenge is restoring the shine to dull worktops. To keep your worktops looking their best, use a granite-specific polisher to buff out any scratches and bring back their natural shine! It’s also important to be aware of the appropriate cleaning products and methods for granite. Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaning products that might damage the surface. When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional to ensure that you’re using the right cleaning methods and products for your specific type of granite.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Granite Worktops
Cleaning granite worktops can be a worry, so here are some answers to frequently asked questions to help make the process easier for you:
- Can I use regular cleaning products on my granite worktops? It’s best to avoid using regular household cleaning products on granite, since they can contain acidic or abrasive ingredients that could damage the surface. Rather use a mild detergent solution or a granite-specific cleaner.
- How often should I seal my granite worktops? It’s recommended that you seal your granite worktops at least once a year, or as often as the manufacturer’s instructions indicate. Before resealing, it’s also important to check the surface in case it appears dull, stained or has lost its shine, as this will need addressing before resealing.
- Can I use a scrub brush on my granite worktops? Avoid using scrub brushes on your granite worktops, as they can scratch the surface. Instead, use a soft cloth, e-cloth or sponge to gently scrub the surface.
- Can I use vinegar or lemon juice on my granite worktops? We advise against these as well, since lemon juice and vinegar have acidic properties that could damage the granite’s surface.
Final Thoughts: Maintaining the Beauty of Your Granite Worktops
Maintaining the beauty of your granite worktops is an important task that requires regular cleaning and care. Proper maintenance will not only keep your worktops looking great, but also extend their lifespan! By following the tips and guidelines outlined above, you can keep your granite worktops looking like new for years to come. Remember to clear the surface before you begin, use appropriate cleaning products, and address stains and spills as soon as they happen. You must also seal your worktops on a regular basis. With the right care and attention, you are sure to enjoy the beauty and durability of your granite worktops for many years to come!
