Natural stone countertops like granite, quartzite, or marble are a long-term investment. Not just because they look great, but also because they’re tough and durable. Still, keeping them looking their best takes some special care. In this blog, we’ll tell you how to clean and care for your natural stone countertops without causing any damage.
1. Why does natural stone need special care?
Even though these materials are very strong, natural stones have pores and unique characteristics that require proper maintenance to avoid stains, wear, or loss of shine. For example, marble is more sensitive to acids, while granite is harder but can absorb liquids if it’s not sealed properly.
2. Daily maintenance: cleaning without harsh chemicals
Daily cleaning is simple and doesn’t require expensive products:
- Use a soft cloth and warm water to wipe away food residues and dust.
- If you need to degrease, mix warm water with a few drops of mild detergent.
- Avoid products with ammonia, vinegar, lemon, or bleach, since they can erode the sealant or change the stone’s color.
- Always dry with a clean cloth to prevent water spots.
A common mistake is using multi-purpose cleaners or antibacterial products with alcohol or acids, which can dull or gradually corrode the surface.
3. Sealing: key to preventing stains
Sealant creates a protective layer that stops liquids from soaking into the stone. This is essential to avoid stains from:
- Oil
- Red wine
- Coffee
- Citrus juices
How often should you seal?
It depends on the type of stone and usage, but generally:
- Granite: every 1 to 2 years
- Quartzite: every 1 to 2 years
- Marble: ideally every year
A simple trick: pour a teaspoon of water on your countertop. If the stone absorbs it in less than 5 minutes, it’s time to reseal.
4. How to clean stains without damaging the surface
For oil or grease stains:
- Make a paste with baking soda and water.
- Apply it on the stain.
- Cover with plastic wrap and let it sit for 24 hours.
- Rinse and dry.
For wine or juice stains:
- Use baking soda with a bit of hydrogen peroxide (not for white marble, since it can lighten it too much).
- Follow the same process.
For stubborn stains, consult a professional before using abrasive products. Sometimes a light polish is the best solution.
5. Special care by stone type
- Granite: very durable but still needs sealing; avoid heavy impacts.
- Quartzite: very hard and heat resistant; gentle cleaning but can handle daily use.
- Marble: elegant but sensitive to acids (lemon, vinegar, tomato); needs prompt cleaning after spills.
6. Avoid these common mistakes
- Cutting directly on the stone: can scratch the surface and ruin your knives.
- Placing hot pots directly: sudden temperature changes can cause cracks, even if some stones resist heat.
- Leaving liquids on the surface for hours: even water can leave marks if the stone isn’t sealed.
- Using metal scrubbers: they can scratch and damage the finish.
7. How to keep the natural shine longer
- Polish once a year with products made for natural stone (no artificial waxes).
- Consider professional maintenance every 3 to 5 years if the surface looks worn.
- Use coasters, cutting boards, and trivets — small habits that make a big difference.
8. What if it’s already stained or dull?
In many cases, the stone can be restored. Contact us for an evaluation, and we’ll advise whether a light polish, deep cleaning, or resealing is the best option.
Taking care of your natural stone countertops isn’t complicated, but it does need some attention. Proper maintenance ensures your kitchen or bathroom stays beautiful for decades.
At Granite Stone Inc., we offer a premium selection of natural stones and help you choose the best one for your lifestyle. Contact us at +1 615-256-3337 or email info@granitestoneinc.com