Congratulations on choosing granite for your kitchen worktops! These natural stone worktops are not only beautiful but also durable and long-lasting.
While granite is supremely durable, you’ll still need to apply periodical TLC to keep your surfaces in top condition.
Read on as we explain the best practices for caring for granite worktops, ensuring they remain a stunning focal point for years to come.
Understanding Granite
Granite is an igneous rock formed deep within the Earth’s crust.
Its composition of quartz, feldspar, and mica gives granite its unique patterns and colours.
This natural formation process results in granite worktops with colours that range from subtle whites and greys to bold blacks and blues.
While granite is among the most durable stones, suitable for both interior and exterior design, it still requires maintenance to preserve its longevity.
Sealing Your Granite Worktops
At Landford Stone, we treat all our granite worktops with a high-quality sealant immediately after installation.
This sealant penetrates the stone, filling microscopic voids to prevent liquid absorption and potential staining.
After installation, avoid contact with liquids for at least 6 hours to allow the sealant to set properly.
Daily Cleaning
For day-to-day cleaning of your granite worktop, follow these simple steps:
- Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water for regular cleaning.
- For polished granite, we recommend using Wipe and Gloss from Stone Care Europe.
- For textured (antiqued, honed, or satinato) granite, use Lithofin MN Easy Clean.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or acidic substances like vinegar or lemon juice.
- Always dry the surface after cleaning to prevent water spots, especially in hard water areas.
Dealing with Stains
While sealed granite is resistant to staining, it’s not entirely stain-proof. Here’s how to handle potential stains:
- Blot spills immediately; don’t wipe, as this can spread the stain.
- For stubborn stains on textured granite, use Lithofin MN Power Clean.
- If staining occurs, contact us promptly. Early treatment is crucial for effective stain removal.
Protecting Your Granite Worktops
To maintain the beauty of your stone kitchen worktops:
- Use coasters under glasses and trivets under hot pots and pans.
- Always use cutting boards; never cut directly on the granite surface.
- Clean spills promptly, especially acidic substances like wine or citrus juices.
- If you have hard water, regularly clean and dry around taps to prevent limescale buildup.
Special Considerations for Textured Granite
If you have honed, antiqued, or satinato granite, be aware that these finishes are more prone to showing marks and stains than polished granite.
They may require more frequent cleaning and extra care to maintain their appearance.
Long-Term Maintenance
While granite is incredibly durable, periodic maintenance can keep it looking its best:
- Reapply sealant every 1-2 years.
- Professional deep cleaning should be considered annually, especially for heavily used areas.
- Address any chips or cracks promptly to prevent further damage.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your granite worktops remain as beautiful as the day they were installed.
Find out more care tips and links to Landford Stone’s favoured cleaning products here.
If you have any questions about how to clean granite worktops or need more specific advice on how to care for granite, don’t hesitate to contact us at Landford Stone.
We can help you keep your granite worktops in pristine condition.
