How to Care for Your Granite Top

As one of the hardest, most durable natural stones, granite is an excellent choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Not only is it beautiful, but it's also easy to care for—with just a little TLC, your granite countertop can stay looking like new for years to come! Here are three tips for keeping your granite top in tip-top shape.

1. Clean up spills immediately

Granite is heat resistant and highly stain-resistant, but it's not impervious to damage. To keep your countertop looking its best, clean up spills as soon as they happen. Use a mild soap and warm water to wipe away any food or drink that's been spilled, then dry the area with a soft cloth. For tougher stains, you may need to use a commercial granite cleaner—just be sure to read the label carefully before use, as some cleaners can damage the finish of your countertop.

2. Protect your counters from high heat

While granite can withstand high temperatures, it's always best to use a trivet or hot pad when placing hot dishes on your countertop. Over time, exposure to high heat can cause cracks and chips in the stone.

3. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners

Harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners can damage the sealant on your granite countertop, leaving it susceptible to staining. To clean your counters, stick with mild soap and warm water or a pH-neutral granite cleaner—and avoid using vinegar, lemon juice, or other acidic cleaners, which can etch the surface of the stone.

Top tip: To protect and prolong the shiny new look of the granite top the surface should be sealed before use with a suitable anti-stain granite sealer. This should be repeated every 6 months to keep the top in peak condition.

With just a little bit of care, your granite countertop can last for many years to come! By wiping up spills immediately, protecting your counters from high heat, and avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners, you'll keep your granite looking like new for years to enjoy.