Your stone kitchen counter top is both beautiful and functional, which is why maintaining its qualities is of utmost importance. Counter top maintenance is not terribly complicated, but does require a little extra work. Here are some of the questions most commonly asked about caring for your counter tops.- How often should I seal my granite? The answer to this question depends on the granite. Nevertheless, you should seal every six or so months for optimum counter top maintenance, and more often than that if your granite is lighter in color. If you are uncertain as to whether you need to seal your granite sooner rather than later, try spilling water on a small area of the counter. If the water beads, then you can hold off on sealing; however, if it begins to seep into the granite, then it is definitely time for your counter tops to be re-sealed.
- If I seal marble, will it stain? Marble is a stone that can be particularly light in color, so stains will inevitably be easier to see. Sealing your marble counter tops will serve as a precaution. You should ensure that you re-seal your marble every three to six months. Sealing will help prevent stains, but it cannot guarantee that your marble will not stain at all, so exercise caution.
- Are there cleaning products to avoid when caring for marble or granite? There are a number of cleaning products you should avoid for marble and granite counter top maintenance. Products that are highly acidic, including vinegar or lemon juice, or have ammonia, will wear away the sealer and may even etch the surface of the stone. You should also steer clear of products that contain abrasives, such as scouring powders or creams.
- What is a recommended cleaner for granite that won’t streak? There are a number of cleaning products available specifically for granite counter top maintenance, such as these, reviewed on The Kitchn. Many people, however, swear by their home remedies, such as diluted dish soap, or even baking soda for the really tough stains. As long as your cleaner is non-acidic and non-abrasive, your granite will remain in good condition.
- How do I get the stains out of my stone counter tops? Removing stains depends upon the type of stain you have. Oil-based stains must be dissolved chemically with detergent, while stains deriving from hard water or acids must be buffed away. The Marble Institute also has some tips for stone counter top maintenance and removal of stains.
