Removing Fingerprints from Granite

When it comes to kitchen and bathroom countertops, granite is a popular and very attractive choice, particularly the darker slabs that can provide a nice contrast and a sleek look. Thoroughly black granite doesn’t occur too often in nature. The most common color ranges are between blue-green and dark gray tones. However, there are finishing techniques that can turn granite countertops into a deeper shade of black almost reminiscent of black onyx, another rare color for a fairly common natural stone. Granite installed with a raw finish may seem a little like slate in the sense that it looks flat but with a more attractive pattern caused by the higher content of quartz minerals. With a honed or highly polished finish prior to sealing, granite counters look shinier, darker, and more aesthetic. However, these two finishing options also attract more fingerprints and streaking. Here are four things to know about getting rid of fingerprints on granite. Know That Fingerprints on Dark Granite Are Almost Unavoidable As previously mentioned, the darker and shinier surface finishes will be a magnet for fingerprints on granite. Fingers are naturally oily and sweaty, though we may rarely feel this condition. Dust particles also play an important role in adhering to fingerprints, which are more visible when light reflects off surfaces with bright finishes. Even dark granite that has been honed to a patina that isn’t necessarily glossy will feature fingerprints. Reduce Dust on Granite Surfaces If you’ve already installed dark granite countertops with a shiny finish, it’s in your best interest to clean them frequently. Dusting them off with a soft cloth that doesn’t leave lint residue is a start, but you should also wipe the counters down with a specially formulated granite countertop cleaner. The idea is not only to wipe away fingerprints, but also to eliminate dust accumulation. Never use common household cleaners on granite. Only use a natural-stone cleaner such as Granite Gold Daily Cleaner®. Seal and Polish to Make the Counters Easier to Wipe Down All granite surfaces require frequent sealing. If you don’t know how to seal granite, the process is fairly simple. After cleaning the counters, spray Granite Gold Sealer® in 3-foot sections on the counter, then immediately wipe into the stone with a lint-free cloth and buff dry with another lint-free cloth. You should also add polishing to this routine. Don’t polish shiny granite floors because they’ll become too slippery, but keeping countertops polished can go a long way toward making them easier to dust off and wipe down to avoid fingerprints. Rethink Your Interior Décor Natural light that projects directly on dark granite surfaces will always show fingerprints, and even more so if the finish is honed or highly polished. Prior to installing granite slabs, consider beige or light gray tones on slabs finished in a way that they look weathered or even raw. These finishes will still require cleaning and sealing, but they won’t show fingerprint smudges, especially if they’re under artificial lights. Granite Gold All-Surface Wipes® are another great solution for keeping your stone countertops clean and free of fingerprints. To learn more about caring for granite and other types of natural stone such as marble, travertine, slate, and limestone, call Granite Gold® today at 1-800-475-STONE (7866). We also have an informative Facebook page where you can find plenty of tips from trusted Stone Care Experts.