The countertops often complete any remodel. What went wrong? The best way to avoid oily stains is to be vigilant about wiping down your granite counter, especially around cooktops. This will take around ten or fifteen minutes. This will take around ten or fifteen minutes. Unless youve tested a sample piece of your granite worktop, avoid using any strong solution as they can cause etching and discoloration. You might not think about the damage that makeup can do to your granite counters, but makeup products contain oils and dyes that can discolor natural stone. Vinegar and lemon juice are acidic, and will damage your granite surfaces. The best solution for oily stains is to use a paste of baking soda and water. Any typical oil will work, for example vegetable or olive oil. We at Marble.com are known for our incredibly quick turnaround, as we understand having countertops and other mainstays installed quickly and properly is important to our customers. Whats in your granite will depend on where it was formed, how long it took to cool, and more. No discoloration where the water was left on the granite means its non-porous and will be less likely to stain. Unfortunately, most common DIY cleaners arent suitable for use on natural stone. Wipe the granite clean and inspect it for stains and marks. Apply a small amount of baby oil to a clean white rag. Just follow our pro cleaning tips and enjoy your beautiful granite countertops. Any substance that isnt pH neutral can damage granite, and that includes the most common household cleaners. This will boost your granites natural. Some types of granite are harder than others, while some stain more easily. Dull granite countertops can be fixed in many ways. Keep coffee grounds away from your counter, use coasters under cups to avoid rings, and consider putting a silicone mat beneath your coffeemaker to avoid any accidental spills. If all else fails, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the spill. Policy, Terms of What kind of stain is in my granite countertop? If your granite countertops have begun to have a dull appearance, chips or other issues, it does not necessarily mean that you need new countertops. Sometimes granite looks dull as a result of etching. Knowing what will stain your particular work surface, and what cleaners you can and cant use on it, is a good first step to maintaining it properly. Make sure to never use common household cleaning products, such as bleach, Windex and others on your granite countertops. Consult with your stone dealer or fabricator to determine the best selection for your particular stone. You may be surprised to hear that hot pots and pans can damage your granite. Always wipe up these types of spills immediately, and use coasters to protect your countertop from drink rings. Because the minerals in granite are so variable, you cant tell how strong or porous granite is from the color. The appeal of granite countertops is their high shine finish, and youll want to keep them looking sparkling clean. By following the instructions that come with the polish, you can restore your countertops luster in no time. Spray sealant evenly across your granite, taking care to cover all surfaces, including the sides. Acidic or alkali cleaners can both damage the surface of your granite, making it look dull and dark. Once your counter is clean, its important to dry it completely using a fresh microfiber cloth. To disinfect your granite countertop, use a mixture of one part isopropyl alcohol and three parts water. To remove water spots, use warm, soapy water to gently wash the stain. Step four: Wipe the granite clean and inspect it for stains and marks. If youre lucky, the dullness on your granite countertops is simply the buildup of soap film. Wipe away any residue with a damp cloth and dry the granite for a smooth, shiny surface. Even though theyre only used in very small amounts, they can still damage granite worktops. Its harder than. Rinse away any soap residue with a clean, damp cloth, and then dry thoroughly. Its an incredibly versatile, effective, and gentle cleaner for all kinds of surfacesand it can also polish your granite countertops. These products can damage natural stone. Acidic or alkali cleaners can both damage the surface of your granite, making it look dull and dark. You may need to re-seal it. This guide will provide you with knowledge of granite restoration, which can help have your countertops looking brand new in no time. Granite polishing involves applying a polisher to the stone surface and buffing in a circular motion. Lighter granites tend to stain more easily, but if your light granite is non-porous then staining will be less of a concern. With the right treatment, and a little daily attention, your granite counters will last a lifetime, and be the easiest thing in your house to clean. Dull countertops may just need a reseal to get back to looking their best. Clean up spills quickly. Using dish soap or other soap-based cleaners to clean your countertops will result in a film that makes surfaces look dull. Or it might not be granite, or even igneous rock, at all. Simply get a quality soap film remover to get the shine back. Apply a small amount of oil to a soft, clean cloth, and buff the granite using circular motions. Pro Tip: If you want to add a scent to your cleaning solution, avoid citrus essential oils. If you want to know the best way to keep your granite countertops looking like new, or youre considering installing granite counters but are daunted by the maintenance, well show you how to keep your work surfaces effortlessly clean. In order to reduce the likelihood of stains, you will need to keep up on cleaning and sealing. Just follow our pro cleaning tips and enjoy your beautiful granite countertops. Mist the granite counter and let it sit for ten minutes before wiping away any excess with a dry microfiber cloth. Many natural stone countertops like granite are extremely hard and are not easily broken or scratched. Instead, make a solution of 50/50 isopropyl alcohol and water. Step one: Clean your granite surface thoroughly with warm, soapy water (or granite cleaner). Use fresh water to ensure you remove all of the remaining peroxide and protect your granite worktop from further damage. This is a paste that youmix togetherand apply to the stain. This indicates that the granite has absorbed the liquid, meaning its porous. See the latest trends, inspiration, and how to's from the experts. Leave the granite to dry to ensure all the water has evaporated. Be sure to wash the counter with fresh water and dry thoroughly once the residue has been removed. First, make sure the area is clean and free from debris or residue. Do not spray the oven cleaner directly onto the stone. Gentle dish soap and water is usually enough. Cleaning pros love baking soda. Color enhancers are applied like topical sealers, but they dont provide the same protection. We value your time, and our goal is to create the best work possible and have you enjoying it as possible. Whenever you get porous granite countertops wet, you run the risk of them becoming discolored. Keeping your granite counters clean really isnt too difficult, and doesnt require any expensive, specialist cleaners. Clean your granite surface thoroughly with warm, soapy water (or granite cleaner). Then use warm water with a small amount of dish soap to wash granite surfaces down. How to Remove Stains from Granite Countertops, How to Properly Clean and Protect Hands from Coronavirus, How to Clean Hair and Dust from a Bathroom Floor. The side of the granite that was sealed shouldnt show any water damage, even if the unsealed side does. Grease stains or mild etching from acids in foods over time can make your countertops less shiny. Granite, and most natural stone in general, is porous. Make sure your dish soap doesnt contain any citrus extracts or essential oils. If you let the sealant set for too long and it dries on your granite countertop, add a little bit more sealant to break it down and then buff it away. After all, its natural heat resistance is one reason why granite is so popular. By following the steps in this guide, you can do exactly that. Check out the guide at the bottom of this article for how to seal granite, or follow the manufacturers instructions. Wiping your granite down daily with a damp cloth and buffing away excess moisture will also help you keep your granite gleaming, and give you a chance to notice any spills before they become stains. As a natural alternative to dish soap, look for products with eco-friendly ingredients. Finally, check how susceptible to staining your granite is by reviewing where you placed other test samples. Coffee is acidic enough to damage the surface of your granite countertop, leaving it dull and etched, and at risk of absorbing stains. Pro Tip: Make sure your dish soap doesnt contain any citrus extracts or essential oils. Copyright 2022 Daltile. Return to Granite Counter Top Questions & Answers. Instead, call a professional who can refinish the stone and restore your granite to its former glory. Most water marks will disappear once theyve completely evaporated, but if your granite is very porous, or the spill was large, you might end up with a dark, discoloured area. If the finish is damaged, no amount of cleaning, buffing, and polishing can get it back. It will need to be resurfaced. You can also use a color enhancer to mask damage caused by etching.Additionally, color enhancers can improve the look of certain granite finishes, such as leathered or honed granite, which have a matte, dull finish. You must be logged in before you can vote. Its harder than marble, and its shiny surface and wide range of colors mean its an elegant, timeless addition to any home. Instead, microfiber cloths are the best tool to use, as they wont scratch and they collect dust and dirt, rather than moving it around. is also safe to use on granite. Berries, grapes, tomatoes, and citrus fruits are particularly likely to damage granite and leaving stains behind. Your email address will not be published. Oils can discolor granite surfaces, and the stains they leave behind can be harder to remove than water marks. Granite can still be damaged by heat because the sealants and finishes used on its surface are not heat resistant to the same degree. Now operating nationwide. You can also contact the natural stone experts at our Stone Centers. After many years of frequent use, yourgranite countertopsmay begin to appear dull. Sealants protect your granite from absorbing stains, giving you time to clean up before any damage occurs. Use cutting boards and silicone mats to protect your granite from accidental damage. Always wipe up these types of spills immediately, and use coasters to protect your countertop from drink rings. If the stain is still there once the worktop is dry, try using a paste of baking soda and a small amount of water. But they can be very susceptible to chemical damage like etching and dulling. Castile soap is also safe to use on granite. To protect against this, you must seal natural stone countertops. Dont forget to polish the edges of your counter! Use decorators tape to divide your test granite in half, and seal one half using the brand of sealant you plan to use on your countertop. Can I use these to clean my granite countertop? Step seven: Leave the sealant to absorb for about ten minutes, then wipe away any excess using a microfiber cloth. What not to use to clean granite counters, What you should use to clean granite countertops. Rub the stain gently with a soft cloth, and wipe away any residue. Headquartered in Tampa Bay, is a popular choice for kitchen counters, as well as floor and wall tiles. Therefore a sealant wont completely protect your granite from etching, but it should reduce the effect. If it is not, you can try repeating the process. After this, you can remove the plastic wrap and the stain should be gone. If you notice signs of etching, that means your granite worktop will need to be protected from acids such as lemon juice, tomatoes, and red wine. To disinfect your granite countertop, use a mixture of one part isopropyl alcohol and three parts water. The baby oil will evaporate over time. *Restrictions apply. Maybe your granite does have some slight etching thats making it appear dull. From routine care to sealing countertops, keeping natural stone beautiful is easy. Granite even has antibacterial and heat resistant properties too. This will prevent the oven cleaner from sitting on the stone for too long and continuing to lighten it beyond what you want. What substances will stain granite countertops? High mineral content in your water (hard water) can also result in a dulling buildup on your countertops. If you added too much Stone Color Enhancer, remove the excess with mineral spirits. Apply Stone Color Enhancer with a clean rag. Granite countertops can occasionally be impacted by chipping. Youll generally have to mix the powder with water to form a paste. Marble.coms expert writers are committed to delivering content that adheres to high editorial standards. If the water doesnt bead, its time to reseal. Never use abrasive or acidic cleansersthat pretty much eliminates most household cleaners. Some types of granite etch very easily, while others hardly react to even strong acids. Granite is a popular choice for kitchen counters, as well as floor and wall tiles. Click here to post comments Leave the sealant to absorb for about ten minutes, then wipe away any excess using a microfiber cloth. Different types of stains (such as oil stains, hard water stains, etc.) Keep acidic foods like tomatoes, lemons, limes, and alcohol off your counter surface. Once your sealant has set, put your granite on a level surface and add a small amount of water on each side. . This usually happens in a few hours or up to two days. Use coasters, trivets, hot pads, and cutting boards to protect your granite countertop. Let it sit for five to ten minutes and then wipe clean. Privacy There are two types of sealant commonly used on granite countertops. For the most detail, use a magnifying glass to examine the surface for any tiny abrasions or dulling, known as etching. Because the minerals in granite are so variable, you cant tell how strong or porous granite is from the color. Fortunately, you often will not have to replace your countertops. Although cooking oil can stain granite, in small amounts its also an effective polish. For a final test, you can also add cooking oil, or stain sources such as coffee or cut fruit. Rather than risk heat damage, use protective pads or trivets under your hot pans to protect your granite. Start with your installer to see if he or she knows someone they trust to handle a stone restoration. Small etches can be polished out using polishing powder (usually tin oxide), but no amount of polishing will undo the damage done by deep etching. Clean off the oven cleaner with soap and water after you have finished one small section. You should view it at different angles and under different light sources to be sure you see everything. Just substitute a few drops in place of dish soap. Let the countertop sit for 24 hours before use. The stone in your granite might contain silica, mica, feldspar, or quartz, along with a variety of other minerals. Through following the simple steps above, your granite kitchen countertops, granite vanity tops or other surfaces can look as good as new. Many granite cleaning products, likethis one, can help retain your stones beauty. There are several types of sealers to choose from. Its an easy fix, though. 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Granite looks great as many different surfaces in the home. Never wet steel wool when youre using it on granite, as it will damage the surface. If your granite looks dull, it has been etched by the acid in the lemon juice. How to remove dried spills from granite counters, Avoid the temptation to use strong cleaners like bleach or ammonia, or DIY cleaners such as. If the residue still doesnt lift, dampen a paper towel with the isopropyl alcohol solution and press it over the mark. Even mild, pH neutral all-purpose cleaners have the potential to dull counters due to soapy buildup. The acid eats into the surface of granite, and the color permeates the stone, leaving. This will boost your granites natural antibacterial properties. Granite countertops are a major addition to any home improvement project. comments Once this is done, you can apply the sealer to the surface. Lastly, wait at least 24 hours before using your countertop. Apply a thin layer of the paste to your granite surface, and gently buff with a clean cloth. Service. Most granite sealants will last about a year, but the exact time you need to reapply your sealant will depend on how you use your kitchen and what your granite comes into contact with on a daily basis. Rub in the sealant using a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Finally, dry your granite to prevent water marks from forming. For the most detail, use a magnifying glass to examine the surface for any tiny abrasions or dulling, known as etching. If desired, wait at least 24 hours before sealing. Give countertops an occasional deep cleaning with a soap scum and mineral buildup remover and treat stains with a polishing compound as needed. While the exact stain resistance of your granite will depend on its porosity and color, you can avoid it becoming stained by taking a few simple precautions. Add a few drops of dish soap, and put the solution into a spray bottle. You should be able to seal your counters in about an hour, including drying times. Stop by a stone center to see beautiful natural stone in every type and style. Just like fruit juice, fruit itself is usually acidic and brightly colored. When you buy a granite countertop, what youre getting is one of a number of different kinds of rock. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'countertopspecialty_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_2',118,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-countertopspecialty_com-medrectangle-3-0')}; CountertopSpecialty.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. To check if your sealant is still working, take a squirt bottle and spray a little water onto your counter. Once you mix the poultice together, apply it to the granite surface at the site of the stain. To clean granite counters, first wipe away any dust or spills with a clean, damp microfiber cloth. Maintenance on porous granite is also more intensive, because youll have to seal it more frequently and mop up any spills as soon as they happen. For most day-to-day cleaning, you dont need to use a lot of complicated or specialized chemicals on your granite counter. Step one: Use decorators tape to divide your test granite in half, and seal one half using the brand of sealant you plan to use on your countertop. There are five key steps to protecting your granite: Prevention really is better than cure, so be mindful of how you use your granite surfaces, and what you place on them. to dish soap, look for products with eco-friendly ingredients. Accurate sourcing and objective Check out the guide at the bottom of this article for how to seal granite, or follow the manufacturers instructions. Enter for your chance to win a biweekly cleaning service for a month of your choice! Use a microfiber cloth to gently rub the residue, then wipe clean using warm, soapy water. Note: Its always best to follow the instructions of the product youre using, but this guide will teach you the basics of how to seal a granite worktop. You will need to do this every night until the area has sufficiently darkened to match, which could take a month or more. Step five: Spray sealant evenly across your granite, taking care to cover all surfaces, including the sides. Avoid putting any makeup on your worktops, or place something underneath to protect the stone surface. will require different ingredients for the poultice or methods for removal. You can use a color enhancer on your granite worktop in tandem with a sealant, but it shouldnt be considered a replacement to properly sealing the stone. Metamorphic. Most soap film removers will do the job, but you can also find combination soap buildup/mineral deposit removers that can tackle both problems. , your granite counters will last a lifetime, and be the easiest thing in your house to clean. The key is to use only as much water as necessary (dont flood the stone) and make sure to wipe and dry your granite countertops as soon as youre done cleaning. Always try to use a pH neutral cleaner on granite surfaces to avoid the risk of etching. Mist the granite counter and let it sit for ten minutes before wiping away any excess with a dry microfiber cloth. Wire cleaners, brushes, and even sponges can scratch and scuff the surface. Instead, soak stains with water or a pH neutral cleaner and use a soft cloth to wipe them away. Step six: Rub in the sealant using a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Then, cover it with plastic wrap and let it sit for 24 to 48 hours. You can buy a specialist granite polish for use on your worktops, or give one of these solutions a try. Remove any residue with a damp cloth and dry the area well. Their purpose is to make the granite look glossy and wet, and bring out the natural color of the stone. Topical sealers coat the granite with a protective layer, while impregnating sealers soak into the stone and fill up the pores that can absorb liquids and stains. How to remove stains from granite counters. If you want to know the best way to keep your granite countertops looking like new, or youre considering installing granite counters but are daunted by the maintenance, well show you how to keep your work surfaces effortlessly clean. The lemon and water test is a great, simple way of finding out how your granite countertop will react to different stains and cleaning solutions. To start, you will need to clear off and clean the countertop. Wipe up spills as soon as you can, and avoid placing any stain sources onto the granite. There are many great granite sealers on the market. Buy a polishing powder designed for natural stone countertops. You got granite countertops because they were virtually indestructible, but now you find yourself with a dull surface that's nothing like the beautiful countertop you started out with. In the area where you put the lemon juice, you might see a change in the shine or surface texture of the granite. If the granite darkens despite being sealed, its highly porous and youll need a specialized sealant to protect your work surfaces. powered by Disqus. Two of the best areLaticreteStoneTechBulletProofSealerandSuperior Zero Ultimate Stone Sealer. If the test does not go well, use the method above for Darkening the Granite instead. Larger homes will receive a discounted rate. As an alternative to the steps above for Darkening the Granite, you could cover the granite with a dark bed sheet, cut out a hole to match the lighter area on the counter and shine a desk lamp with a UV light bulb onto the area. For granite counters, thats a bad combination. As an Amazon Associate we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through links on our site. Unfortunately, granites good looks and useful properties do come with a premium price tag. Next add a small amount of (real) lemon juice beside the water, taking care not to mix them together. Other than countertops, consider using granite for backsplashes, fireplace surrounds and even outdoor living areas. How to Restore Stainless Steel and Granite Damaged by Cillit Bang, How to Remove Vinegar Stains from Granite Countertops, How to Clean Mold from Underside of Granite Countertop, How to Remove Plumbers Putty Stains from Granite. Add a few drops of dish soap, and put the solution into a spray bottle. Make a mixture of three parts baking soda to one part warm water, and combine until smooth. Create with Stylizer & mosaic design tool or tour inspiration gallery & virtual house.