How to Care for Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are beautiful and can add value to your home. Most people think of granite as tough as nails, which it generally is. But even though granite is a hard, non-porous, natural stone, you still need to use care to maintain its beauty and value.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Clean your counters often to ensure that the grime will not build up. Be sure to avoid placing anything gritty on the surface, and if any grit does get on the countertop, remove it immediately.

2. Use a natural oil-based cleaner on the granite counters. Also, use a synthetic scrubbing pad. You don't want to use anything too abrasive.

3. Wipe spills up as soon as they happen. Light colored granites stain more easily than darker ones. Foods such as coffee, red wine or tomatoes can stain quickly.

4. Re-seal your granite periodically according to the manufacturer's directions. This will help prevent stains on your granite countertops when you do have a spill.

5. Avoid putting hot pots on your granite countertop if it has been resined with epoxy during manufacturing. While the granite will be fine, the epoxy will be ruined, and it is not easily repaired.

6. Do not use ammonia-based products, turpentine or scouring cleaners. Avoid using rust removers or acid-based cleaners and keep oven and drain cleaners off the granite countertops.

Tips & Warnings

• Each specimen of granite has a distinctive color and tone. If a section of your countertop needs to be replaced because it has been damaged, it probably will not match the rest of your countertop. Pay special attention to keeping your granite countertops well-sealed so stains don't discolor its surface.