What Happens If You Don’t Clean Your Granite Countertops?
With proper care, countertops made of granite or other types of natural stone like marble and travertine can last a lifetime without losing their brilliance. Granite is truly an investment in your home, but as with anything else of value, it needs to be cared for to maximize its beauty and lifespan. If you don't know how to clean granite countertops, or if you use the wrong cleaning products, your granite may dull or develop stains or streaks. Here's why it's so important to clean your countertops daily and the best way to do it.
Stains and Other Types of Damage May Occur
Granite countertops don't need much care, but part of your regular maintenance routine should be a simple daily cleaning. Oil spills, soap, cut fruit, and cooking ingredients can all leave behind telltale stains that may not be apparent until it's too late. Even spilled water left on the surface of your counters can lead to water marks and unsightly darkening of the stone. A quick cleaning each day ensures there are no liquids left behind that can saturate into the stone and leave behind unsightly stains. You can also mitigate the risk of stains and damage by sealing your countertops to repel liquids before they can penetrate the porous stone.Using the Wrong Type of Cleaner Can Be Harmful to the Stone
Regular cleaning is important to keep your granite looking its best, but be careful about the cleaning products you use. Most common household cleaners contain corrosive or acidic chemicals like vinegar and lemon juice that can damage the finish on your granite and the stone itself. This is because granite has some amount of calcite, which dissolves when exposed to acids. The natural pits and fissures in granite can also trap these harmful cleaning products and cause damage over time. When your granite counters have been damaged by harmful cleaning products, the surface will most likely need to be professionally refinished.Some Cleaning Products Cause Hazing
In addition to the risk of using acidic cleaning products, some cleaners can also make the surface of your counters hazy or cloudy. This usually happens when the cleaning solution destroys the polished finish of the granite and leaves dull or discolored spots. You may also notice haziness if you clean your counters with soap that leaves behind a film or if you do not dry your countertops after cleaning.How to Clean Granite
As a natural-stone, granite is naturally resistant to bacteria and other harmful organisms, but stains are another matter. The best way to maintain a beautiful finish and hygienic food prep surface is cleaning your granite daily using a stone-safe granite countertop cleaner like Granite Gold Daily Cleaner®. To clean your granite counters, spray the cleaner onto the surface, and wipe it dry using a soft cloth or paper towel. Make sure you dry the surface to prevent streaks or water marks. You can also use granite all-surface wipes to keep your counters clean. To learn more about cleaning granite, limestone, slate, and other types of natural stone, get in touch with the Stone Care Experts at Granite Gold®. We offer a wide array of high-quality products that can help you properly care for the stone in your home. Call 1-800-475-STONE to find out more.
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Posted on August 25 2017