When it comes to kitchen countertops, every home improvement magazine and website approves natural stone countertops and backsplashes are all the rage. Many newly renovated kitchens features environmentally friendly granite countertops. During the process for selecting new kitchen countertops, you may want something durable, stylish, low-maintenance and budget-friendly. Granite meets all these requirements because granite is extracted from the surface of the earth. This countertop material can withstand both cold and hot temperatures, as well as extreme pressure before cracks or chips.

How to Maintain Granite Countertops

After granite countertop installation, you should know how to maintain the granite surface. While granite is a durable surface, just like all natural stones, if you fail to provide the right care to the surface, it will start to break down at faster rate. Granite deterioration will become apparent with signs such as cracks, stains, and surface blemishes. Here are some helpful tips to help you maintain the granite countertops and increase their lifespan:

Understanding the benefits of granite sealers

Granite is a porous material. It absorbs moisture from spills. That is why granite sealing is required. Granite countertop sealing not only helps countertop to look good, but it also keeps mildew and bacteria from soaking into the seams. The seam is the area where two granite slabs are joined against each other.

Preparing granite counters for a routine cleaning

Once your countertop is sealed, you will have to learn how to keep it clean. Before you actually start cleaning your granite countertop, scrub off all crumbs and ensure that you are able to reach all areas of the countertop. Then clean the surface with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

Using mild cleaning agent

Harsh chemicals can destroy the sealing and eventually granite surface. Thus, it is always advisable to use mild cleaning agents to clean the granite kitchen counters. You can opt for the homemade and environmentally friendly cleaners for this purpose.

Clean spills as soon as you can

Cleaning spills as soon as they come into notice is always a good idea. In case something acidic spills on the countertop, you can minimize the damage to countertop by cleaning it right away.