Tips on granite maintenance

A lot of people consider granite as a stone exhibiting  power and hardiness. However, proper maintenance of your granite countertops, backsplashes and walls leads to longevity - in addition to its natural makeup.

Watchfulness is key. That’s because granite is a stone susceptible to damage if you use certain products and methods. These products and techniques may act perfectly safe on other kitchen surfaces, but not granite.

You don’t need be a genius when it comes to maintaining and cleaning granite countertops suitably. The work simply needs additional care and attention.

Simple cleaning methods:

• While attempting to simply clean granite countertops, you can try washing it with mild soap. It may take care of the problem. The mild soap must be a pH neutral cleaner. It can also be a moderate dish liquid.
• Clean the granite object with your mild soap and warm water. You can use a microfiber cloth to clean granite surfaces. Microfiber gets rid of dirt without putting scratches on the surface.

Removing tough grime

When it comes to tough oily stains, use a mixture of baking soda and mild soap. Apply it directly on the stains, and let it sit for as long as possible. The solution may sit a whole day if needed. You can also wrap it with plastic in order to keep it moist.  

However, if the stains on the granite surface are water-based, you’ll want to add another ingredient to the paste mentioned above. Make a paste of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and mild soap. Similarly, after applying the paste, keep it there for as long as possible.

Things to avoid while cleaning

If you want the granite surface in your home to be durable, avoid using harsh cleaners which are not pH neutral.

Refrain from using ammonia, bleach, vinegar, lemon, lime, citrus, scrubby sponges and steel wool. These products will ruin your beloved granite surface. In fact, these objects will also remove  the protection and gloss from the surface. They will add scratches, dull the surface, and even deteriorate the sealant on the surface.

Recoating the sealant

After purchasing your granite countertop, it should have already been coated with a sealant.

However, as time progresses the sealant may go weak, or be completely removed from certain areas on its surface.

Recoating the surface with a sealant is a must. The sealant will save the stone from receiving harmful scratches and moisture. Furthermore, stains can be cleaned sufficiently and suitably when there’s a surface sealant. A sealed stone surface is always safe to use.

If you are interested in adding natural stone to your home, office, or retail space, contact us at GMS Werks and we would love to help you create the space you’ve always dreamed of!