4 Tips to Prevent Cloudy Film on Granite Countertops

Homeowners who have granite countertops in their kitchens or bathrooms may run into situations where the surface becomes cloudy or hazy, and this is bound to be more noticeable with darker granite colors. In many cases, the hazy appearance is limited to the surface and can be easily dealt with. However, a more serious problem exists when the cloudiness you see is actually etching, which is a chemical reaction in the stone itself resulting from exposure to acids.

Tips for Preventing Cloudy Film on Granite Countertops

With proper natural stone maintenance, cloudiness on granite counters can be avoided altogether. Learn the top tips for preventing cloudy film on granite countertops. 

Watch Out for Hard Water Deposits 

According to a study conducted by Virginia Tech, 85 percent of the water piped to American households has a high content of calcium carbonates, thereby resulting in what’s known as hard water that can leave white and chalky stains. The key to avoiding these stains is to not let water puddles accumulate and dry. Make sure to always wipe them dry, particularly in those sections located closer to the bathroom or kitchen sinks. Polishing regularly can also prevent buildup. Take a look at this video answering some basic questions about natural-stone care:

Don’t Use Common Household Cleaners 

The cleaners you usually purchase from your local supermarket are often too abrasive to use on granite surfaces. It may take a few uses of these cleaning products before you notice your countertops looking cloudy, which is actually a dulling of the surface caused by common cleaners. Another problem with common household cleaners is that they can break down the protective seal on the granite, thus leaving your countertops unprotected and susceptible to staining and etching. Instead, you should use a stone-safe granite cleaner such as Granite Gold Daily Cleaner®.

Take Care of Spills Right Away

In the kitchen, fruit juice, coffee, tea, and wine are substances that can weaken the seal of your countertops if left for too long. In the bathroom, cosmetics and soap will have a similar effect that could eventually lead to cloudiness. You don’t want to allow acidic or corrosive substances to remain on top of your granite counters. The best course of action is to use Granite Gold® Daily Cleaner to wipe up spills as soon as you can. 

Clean Your Granite Regularly

In addition to following the above tips, one of the most important steps in preventing cloudiness on granite countertops is maintaining a consistent cleaning regimen. It never hurts to clean your counters on a daily basis. You should also use granite sealer regularly to protect your stone against staining and etching, as well as a granite polish to keep your granite countertops looking as good as new. 

Preserve Your Granite with Granite Gold®

Maintaining your granite countertops is as simple as performing three basic steps: cleaning, sealing, and polishing. For additional tips on caring for countertops made of granite or other types of natural stone such as marble, slate, or travertine, reach out to Granite Gold® at 1-800-475-STONE (7866), and like our Facebook page for regular tips and updates as well.