If you have natural stone kitchen countertops, you're already aware of their beauty as well as their convenience. Natural stones such as granite, marble, and quartzite make your kitchen sparkle and stand out, but you need to care for them properly to ensure they continue to look great. Here's how to clean and maintain natural stone countertops so that they retain their looks and luster for years to come.
Types of Stones
Not all stones are the same, so it's necessary to understand the qualities of different types of stones in order to maintain them. Granite, for example, is durable and scratch resistant. On the other hand, it's also porous and subject to staining. Marble is gorgeous but also softer than granite, and it's even more prone to staining and etching. Quartzite is hard yet lovely, providing an in-between alternative, but it scratches under sharp metal knives.
Daily Cleaning Routine
Make sure your stone countertops stay lovely with a daily cleaning routine. Natural stone countertops are usually sealed for protection and preservation, so cleanup should be easy. Still, stay on top of it. Use a soft cloth or sponge with a mild solution of dish soap and warm water to wipe down your countertops and remove dirt and debris. Use a soft towel to dry it off afterward.
Spills and Stains
In a kitchen, spills are just facts of life. Address them quickly to prevent stains from working their ways into the natural stone's surface. Blot-don't wipe-to prevent the stain from spreading. Tougher stains are best tackled with a mixture of baking soda and water or special cleaners. Ask the installer what the best course of action is for spill removal.
Whatever you do, don't let acidic substances such as lemon juice, tomato juice, or vinegar sit on your stone. Acidic substances can etch stone, especially marble, and leave permanent unsightly markings. Sealing can protect stone from all those inevitable stains, spills, and scratches, but it's not indestructible, so be sure to reseal your stone periodically.
Preventive Care Tips
Spills are inevitable, but damage doesn't have to be. Keep your natural stone countertops in good shape by taking steps to protect them. Use cutting boards to keep knives and other tools from encountering the surface. Trivets and hot pads prevent thermal shock, which could lead to bad cracks, to the surface. Also, while natural stone floors can take a lot of weight, you should never treat countertops as a place to sit or stand.
That's how to clean and maintain natural stone countertops. With a regular cleaning routine, prompt attention to spills, and periodic sealing, you can keep your countertops looking beautiful and functional for years.
