A GUIDE TO CLEANING YOUR COUNTERTOPS

 

Taking the time to understand how to properly clean your new stone countertop will help maintain the luster of your gorgeous new countertops for years to come! Here’s a breakdown stone by stone for the best way to clean your stone countertops and how to deal with pesky staining.

 

GRANITE

 

Daily Cleaning: To keep granite countertops shiny, clean with a mixture of dishwashing detergent and water. Simply mix a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid and four cups of water in a spray bottle. After food preparation, give the countertops a quick spritz and wipe with a soft, microfiber cloth. Allow​ it to air dry.

Do not use harsh cleaners like foaming bathroom  cleaners, vinegar, or lemon juice that can dull the finish of granite.

 

Stain removal: For tough stains like red wine or beet juice, use a commercial stone poultice or create your own by mixing baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. After cleaning, the stained area will need to be resealed to prevent further staining.

 

QUARTZ

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Daily cleaning: Quartz is one of the easiest stone countertops to care for since it is not affected by acidic foods and does not scratch easily. For daily cleaning, you can use a glass cleaner or any non-abrasive household cleaner, but stay away from abrasive, scouring pads.

 

Stain removal: Very little stains quartz, with the exception of permanent ink, so protect the surface when using Sharpies.

 

QUARTZITE

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Daily Cleaning: Low pH cleaners can be used with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge, but if you can address any spillage on the surface immediately, soap and water is always the best option.

 

Stain Removal: One technique you can apply is to use commercial stain remover poultice or make your own with baking soda and water paste. Spread it over the stain and cover it with plastic wrap for 2 days. Wipe it clean, check the results and if necessary, repeat the process. After cleaning, the stained area will need to be resealed to prevent further staining.

 

MARBLE

 

Daily cleaning: The key to keeping marble looking great is prevention. Wipe up food and drink spills as soon as possible. Wipe down marble countertops daily with mild dish detergent and warm water using a soft cloth. Never use vinegar, glass cleaners with ammonia, or any type of harsh cleaner.

 

Stain removal: For food stains or rust marks left by metals, create a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Apply liberally and allow to dry before wiping away. Repeat as needed.

To remove scratches and etching, use a marble polishing powder. Follow the product instructions carefully and use the lightest scrubbing touch to prevent damage. Reseal after polishing.

 

SOAPSTONE

 

Daily cleaning: Any household cleaner can be used and water. It is best to avoid scouring powders and pads.

 

Stain removal: Since soapstone is nonporous, food and acids do not stain the surface. If scratching occurs, rubbing the area with mineral oil will help hide scratches and any discoloration from hard water spotting.