Maintaining Your Granite

Granite is very difficult to scratch and holds up well over time. However, there are proper ways to care for your natural stone countertop that will keep it looking new for years to come.

Everyday Care Guidelines

1. Blot up spills immediately, before they penetrate the surface
2. Clean stone surfaces with a few drops of neutral clearer (available in hardware stores), or mild dishwashing liquid and warm water
3. Use a soft, clean cloth to clean your granite. Rinse after washing with a soap solution and dry with a soft, clean cloth
4. Consider using a new disinfectant cleaner made specifically for granite
5. Reseal the countertop every year. Use a non-toxic sealer on food preparation areas
6. Always have a professional repair scratched granite
7. Use coasters under all glasses, particularly those containing alcohol or citrus juices. Many common foods and drinks contain acids that will etch or dull the stone surfaces
8. Do not place hot items directly on the stone surface. Use trivets or cutting boards under hot dishes and place mats under china, ceramics, silver or other objects that could scratch the surface.

Warning: Things to Watch Out For

1. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar, or other acids on natural stone. Strong detergents or corrosive liquids can dull the polished surface and should not be used
2. Do not use abrasive cleaners, such as dry cleaners, scouring powders, or 'soft' cleaners
3. Do not mix cleaning products such as ammonia and bleach together - the result is highly toxic!

Removing Stains

1. To remove a light stain, mix a cup of flour and 1-2 tablespoons of dishwashing liquid with water to make a thick paste. Put it on the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and let it sit overnight. Scrape away the mixture with a wooden utensil and rinse
2. If the stain is oil-based (i.e. grease, oil, milk) use hydrogen peroxide in the paste instead of dishwashing liquid, or try ammonia on it.
3. To remove ink or marker stains from dark stone, use a lacquer thinner or acetone. On light-colored granite, use hydrogen peroxide.
4. For bad stains caused by wine, ink, or other non-oil substances, mix molding plaster and pure bleach into a paste and leave it on the stain for 30 minutes. Then remove and rinse thoroughly
5. For oil-based or fat-based stains, make a mix of molding plaster and waster and mold it into a bird's nest shape. Place over stain and allow it to stand for 3 hours. Remove and rinse thoroughly