Congratulations on your brand-new countertops! Now that you have stunning, natural stone countertops featured in your kitchen, you probably are wondering the best way to care for them! Kitchen countertops are no stranger to spills and food-related messes, so it is helpful to know the best way to care for them to ensure that they last a long time in your home!
Let’s start out with what NOT to do when it comes to cleaning and caring for your natural stone countertops. You should never (and we really stress that – NEVER) use abrasive cleaners on natural stone. Scouring pads and abrasive, acidic cleaners can strip your countertop’s sealer and stone, and potentially leave irreversible damage to the beautiful natural stone. You also should not be using chemical-based cleaners, even if they are marketed for cleaning marble and granite countertops. These cleaners are often too harsh and can damage natural stone.
For everyday cleaning, DO use mild soap and warm water. This combination will effectively clean your countertops while also keeping the natural stone safe and beautiful. To add some shine to your countertops after you finish cleaning with mild soap and warm water, you can buff them with a microfiber towel! Cleaning your countertops with this simple solution every day will keep them looking shiny and beautiful!
When it comes to bigger messes and harder to tackle stains on granite or marble countertops, clean with a paste of baking soda and water (for oil-based stains) or hydrogen peroxide (for water-based stains). Apply the paste to the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and tape down the edges. Let sit for a few days (or overnight at the very least), and then rinse off the paste. Repeat the process if the stain isn’t completely gone. Be sure to do a spot test first to make sure the method won’t affect the color or finish of the stone.
Following these steps helps to ensure that you can enjoy your beautiful new, natural stone countertops for a long time! If you are looking to remodel your kitchen in 2021 and need to update your countertops, we would love to help! Contact Distinctive Marble and Granite today for all of your countertop needs.
