How to clean and maintain granite countertops

Granite is a material widely used in kitchen and bathroom sinks and countertops. Despite being a shiny natural stone, easy to keep clean and even more resistant than marble, it also needs specific care to prevent it from being damaged or stained.

This article is for you housewife who has a granite countertop or sink at home and wants to keep it beautiful and maintained for longer. Our faithful reader, Thelma Sabim, gave us tips and revealed tricks that she herself tried out at home so we could share this knowledge with you, check her out.

Care to keep granite well maintained

One of the precautions that must be taken to keep the piece well preserved is to apply sealer annually on its surface. Thus, you guarantee that the granite maintains its impermeability and does not absorb liquids that are spilled on it.

Abrasive chemicals, cleaners with acidic ingredients (such as vinegar) should not be used to clean the granite countertop or sink as these substances can leave stains and scratches.

Foods such as soda, vinegar and lemon juice should be kept away from the countertop or if they fall they should be removed quickly to prevent them from leaving a mark on the material.

Anything that spills onto the countertop should be cleaned up as quickly as possible, this way you can make sure it stays stain-free. Another tip is that you should never use the granite countertop as a cutting board, as this will leave scratches and cuts.

How to clean granite countertops

To clean, prepare a solution of a few drops of mild detergent in warm water. Then apply the solution to the granite with a sponge or soft cloth. Once this is done, the next step is to rinse and dry with a paper towel or cloth.

The second cleaning step consists of mixing one part isopropyl alcohol (70%) with three parts water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the countertop with a paper towel or soft cloth to dry.

How to remove stains from granite

Grease stain: To remove grease stains like cooking oil and milk, the first step is to remove the dirt with a detergent. Then, make a paste of baking soda with a few drops of water and apply it on the stain.

You can also make a paste with a cup of flour or baking soda and 5 tablespoons of dish soap. Then add water until you get a paste with the consistency of yogurt. Then, place the paste on the stain, cover with plastic and leave overnight. Finally, remove the paste with water.

Stain caused by organic matter: Stains from fruit, coffee, tea, food and paper can cause pinkish brown stains on the stone. Use a hydrogen peroxide solution to remove the stain.

Ink stain: On darker granite, use thinner or acetone to remove ink stains or markers. On light colored granite, use hydrogen peroxide to remove these stains. Rinse well afterwards.

With the collaboration of reader Thelma Sabim.