Since their rise to prominence in the late 1990s, granite countertops are now the material of choice in most modern kitchens. Whether you’re a chef or you enjoy preparing your meals, a granite countertop can significantly improve how you operate and get things done in your kitchen. Read on to discover the magical benefits of this kitchen finish and our top tips on how to clean your granite countertops.
Why Granite?
Granite is one of the most resilient stones on the planet. This material copes very well when under stress from the wear and tear caused by human traffic. On top of that, granite can withstand scorching and cold temperatures, unlike other finishes such as wood. Additionally, the porous nature of granite enables it to absorb liquids and spills quickly. The attractive patterns and their glittery characteristics combine to offer superior bacteria and stain-resisting qualities. With all these features, it is no wonder why chefs prefer granite to other materials for their kitchen countertops.
Granite Countertop Maintenance
Cleaning procedures for granite countertops vary depending on whether the countertop has a sealant or not. Sealants are usually applied to preserve your countertop’s unique qualities, essential in increasing its useful life. However, remember to use a new seal at least once every two years. If your granite countertops have difficulty dealing with spills, then it is time to reseal them. Keeping your countertops sparkling clean has equal importance to regularly changing your seals. Below are some of the handy tips on how to properly clean your granite tops.
Cleaning these countertops is super easy, and the best part is most of the items you need are already on your kitchen shelves. Additionally, you don’t need fancy tools to get the job done. Below are all the materials you need for a DIY granite countertop clean-up.
• Baking soda
• A dishwashing agent
• A mixing bowl
• A rug or microfiber cloth
• Hydrogen peroxide
• A mixing spoon
Cleaning Steps
Step 1
Start by clearing any items on your kitchen countertop, including any cooking appliances such as blenders and crockery. Use a microfiber or sponge to brush away dust and tiny debris from your kitchen top. Granite tops are sensitive to abrasive scrubbing techniques, so be sure to use soft brushes. Secondly, acidic chemicals, including vinegar, are not advisable for use since they can destroy the sealants, thus weakening the stain resistance qualities of your countertop. Instead, try using warm water, soap of dishwashing agent, and a cleaning cloth.
Step 2
Dampen your microfiber cloth with warm water, then apply soap over your cloth before proceeding to wipe the countertop gently. Remember to rinse your cloth in freshwater periodically to avoid the accumulation of grime. Wipe down the countertop thoroughly from one end to the other until you have covered the entire surface. Our cleaning experts recommend cleaning in an “S” pattern for maximum cleaning effect. You may need to intensify your scrubbing if there are stubborn stains on your kitchen tops.
Step 3
Disinfect your countertop surfaces by creating a mixture of alcohol and water. A cup of each of these two ingredients should be enough. Consider adding a few drops of cooking oil for better results. Spray the mixture evenly over the surface. After five minutes, wipe your countertops gently with a dry cloth. The drops of cooking oil are essential to giving your countertop a glossy shine and added stain resistance.
Cleaning Resistant Strains
While daily cleaning with warm water and soap is sufficient for most clean-ups, staining presents a more difficult challenge, especially with stubborn stains on your kitchen top. Luckily, baking soda has excellent stain removal capabilities. Mix baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and warm water in a bowl until there is a thick paste. Though commonly used as a wound disinfectant, hydrogen peroxide also works wonders on your granite tops. A solution of hydrogen peroxide removes stains without bleaching or discoloring your countertops.
Carefully spread this thick paste over your countertops. Cover your kitchen top with plastic wrap, making sure to reach over the edges. Let the mixture do its magic overnight. The following morning, rinse thoroughly with water and wipe down to reveal a stain-free kitchen top.
How Not to Clean Your Granite Tops
Avoid using vinegar or any acidic cleaning agent on your countertops. Together with a host of other commercial oils and extracts, these items are the main culprits of dull-looking countertops. Highly acidic or basic products can erode the sealant and damage the granite itself, a condition known as etching. Spills from juice, coffee beverages, and acidic foods can also lead to etching. The best way of dealing with stains is to clean up immediately.
Homeowners need to follow the instruction manual provided by the manufacturer. These manuals usually list suitable cleaning agents and can warn users on which products to avoid. The use of vinegar raises the risk of permanent etching damage on your granite tops.
At Cleanzen, we understand the importance of a clean countertop. Our maidsare professionally vetted and trained to ensure we deliver excellence in all our countertop cleaning assignments. We have the expertise to handle not only granite but other stone finishes such as marble. Our products are certified and accredited for safety and home use, so you can be sure your property is in safe hands. You can book an appointment with us today to enjoy our expert services. Our short turnaround times ensure we get back to all our customers within 24 hours of appointment booking.
