Keep Your Investment: How to Clean & Seal Granite Counters

How Often Do You Need to Clean and Seal Granite Countertops?

Frequency of Cleaning

The frequency of cleaning and sealing granite countertops depends on several factors, such as the type and color of granite, the amount of use and abuse, the quality of the sealer, and the climate and humidity level. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should clean your granite countertops daily or weekly with a mild soap or a specially formulated granite cleaner, and seal them at least once a year or as needed.

How to Know if Sealing is Required

To test if your granite countertops need to be sealed, you can perform a simple water test. Sprinkle some water on an inconspicuous area of the countertop and wait for 15 minutes. If the water beads up on the surface, it means your granite is well-sealed and does not need another coat. If the water sinks into the stone or leaves a dark spot, it means your granite is porous and needs to be sealed as soon as possible.

Frequency of Sealing

While sealing your countertops at least once a year is a good general rule, some countertops may require more frequent sealing depending on usage. The sealer can wear off over time due to use and cleaning, so it’s important to perform the water test periodically to determine if resealing is necessary.

How Do You Clean Granite Countertops?

To clean granite countertops effectively, you’ll need a soft cloth or sponge, warm water, mild dish soap or a pH-neutral granite cleaner, and a microfiber cloth or a soft towel. Here are the steps to follow:

• Step 1: Wet the cloth or sponge with warm water and squeeze out any excess.
• Step 2: Apply a few drops of dish soap or granite cleaner to the cloth or sponge and rub it gently to create some lather.
• Step 3: Wipe down the entire countertop with the cloth or sponge in circular motions. Pay special attention to any spills, stains, or sticky spots.
• Step 4: Rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and wipe down the countertop again to remove any soap residue.
• Step 5: Dry the countertop thoroughly with the microfiber cloth or towel. This will prevent water spots and streaks from forming on the surface.

How Do You Seal Granite Countertops?

To seal granite countertops properly, you will need a high-quality granite sealer, a spray bottle, rubber gloves, a soft cloth or sponge, another microfiber cloth or towel, and a well-ventilated area. Here are the steps to follow:

• Step 1: Choose a granite sealer that is suitable for your type and color of granite. Read the instructions on the label carefully and follow them accordingly. Some sealers may require shaking or stirring before use. Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands from any chemicals in the sealer.  
• Step 2: Clear and clean the countertop as described above. Make sure there is no dirt, dust, grease, or moisture on the surface. Wait for the countertop to dry completely before applying the sealer. 
• Step 3: Ventilate the area by opening windows and doors or turning on fans. This is not only important for the sealer application but also if you are using a poultice for stain removal, as some ingredients like bleach have strong fumes. 
• Step 4: Before you begin, it’s important to do a patch test of the sealer on a small, inconspicuous area of the countertop to make sure it doesn’t cause any discoloration or adverse reactions. Wait for the recommended time on the sealer’s instructions and check the results. If everything looks good, you can proceed to the next steps.
•  Step 5: Pour some sealer into the spray bottle and spray it evenly over a small section of the countertop. Do not oversaturate the surface or let the sealer pool on any areas.
• Step 6: Use the cloth or sponge to spread the sealer over the section in circular motions. Make sure to cover every inch of the stone without leaving any gaps or overlaps.
• Step 7: Wait for the sealer to penetrate into the stone for about 15 minutes or as directed by the manufacturer. You may notice some bubbles or foam forming on the surface; this is normal and indicates that the sealer is working.
• Step 8: Use the microfiber cloth or towel to wipe off any excess sealer from the surface. Do not rub or scrub the surface; just buff it gently to remove any residue.
• Step 9: Repeat steps 4 to 7 for the rest of the countertop, working in small sections until you cover the entire area. Make sure to overlap the sections slightly to ensure uniform coverage.
• Step 10: Let the sealer cure for at least 24 hours or as directed by the manufacturer. Do not use or touch the countertop during this time. After the curing period, you can enjoy your sealed and protected granite countertops.

Tips and Tricks for Cleaning and Sealing Granite Countertops

Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you clean and seal your granite countertops more effectively and efficiently:

• Avoid using abrasive or acidic cleaners, such as vinegar, lemon juice, bleach, ammonia, or scouring pads, on your granite countertops. These can damage the sealant and the stone, causing scratches, etches, or stains.
• Use coasters, trivets, cutting boards, and placemats to protect your granite countertops from heat, moisture, and scratches. Do not place hot pots and pans, wet glasses, or sharp knives directly on the surface.
• Blot up any spills as soon as possible with a paper towel or a soft cloth. Do not wipe or rub the spills, as this can spread them or push them deeper into the stone.
• For stubborn stains, you can try using a poultice made of baking soda and water. Mix enough baking soda and water to form a thick paste and apply it over the stain. Cover it with plastic wrap and tape it down with painter’s tape. Let it sit for 24 hours and then remove it. Wipe off any residue with a damp cloth and dry the area thoroughly.
• For oil-based stains, such as grease, cooking oil, or cosmetics, you can try using a poultice made of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Follow the same steps as above but use hydrogen peroxide instead of water.
• For organic stains, such as coffee, tea, wine, or fruit juice, you can try using a poultice made of baking soda and bleach. Follow the same steps as above but use bleach instead of water. Be careful not to use too much bleach, as it can discolor your granite.
• If you are unsure about how to clean or seal your granite countertops, consult a professional stone care expert for advice and assistance. They can help you choose the right products and techniques for your specific type and color of granite.

Why Do You Need to Clean and Seal Granite Countertops?

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Granite is a porous material, which means it has tiny holes on its surface that can absorb liquids, oils, and bacteria. If left unsealed, granite can become stained, discolored, or even damaged by acidic substances such as vinegar, lemon juice, or wine. Sealing granite creates a protective layer that fills in the pores and prevents liquids from penetrating the stone. This way, you can avoid stains and keep your granite countertops hygienic and shiny.

Cleaning granite counters is also important to remove dirt, dust, grease, and food residues that can accumulate on the surface over time. Regular cleaning can prevent the buildup of grime that can dull the appearance of granite and make it harder to seal. Cleaning granite countertops also helps to remove any bacteria or germs that may pose a health risk.

Conclusion: How to Clean and Seal Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are a great addition to any kitchen, as they offer beauty, durability, and value. However, they also require some care and maintenance to keep them in top condition. By following the steps and tips outlined, you can learn how to clean and seal your granite countertops properly and easily. This way, you can enjoy your granite countertops for years to come.