If you are thinking about remodeling your kitchen, upgrading the countertops should be at the top of your list of things to do. Aside from appliances, these are the one thing people use the most, for obvious reasons. Given the amount of use they receive from cooking and storing items, spending the money on quality material is worth it. Laminate may be cheaper than stone, but it is also much more susceptible to damage. These types of countertops are notorious for cracking, warping and deteriorating faster. Thus, one tried and true alternative that is more affordable than ever these days, is granite. Well-known for its rugged yet aesthetic charm, granite has long been the go-to choice for homeowners.
Clean Granite Countertops in Due Time to Prevent Stains
No matter what color or style you choose, your countertops will be guaranteed to stay in pristine condition for a long time. That is, if you take care of them the right way. Although one of the top benefits of this stone is its ability to resist stains, it should be noted that even it can become discolored. This typically happens when water and cooking oils are left on the countertops for an extended period of time, rather than being cleaned up shortly after they occur. This doesn’t mean you have to rush to wipe away spills, but you shouldn’t let them stay idle for longer than a few minutes. Also, don’t be concerned if you notice a dark spot on the stone if water has been soaking for a short amount of time, as the moisture will evaporate shortly afterwards. To prevent staining and discoloration, you should make it a habit to clean spills right away. If you have children, stress the importance of cleaning them on a regular basis and make it a daily chore.
How to Remove Stains from Granite Countertops
Contrary to popular belief, staining is not a permanent issue with these types of countertops. Even those caused by cooking oils can be removed quite easily, with the proper equipment of course. The best way to remove stains is to use a poultice paste that works to draw the material to the surface of the stone and subsequently absorb it. Simply apply a thick layer to the affected area and secure it with plastic wrapping. Let the solution work for a day before removing it, which should be done with a plastic scraping tool. Never use a razor blade or anything sharp, as this can scratch the stone surface. Wipe your granite countertops with a dry cloth to complete the process.
Granite countertops are not invulnerable to stains, but routine maintenance will keep them looking great for years. Also, applying a poultice once a month will help maintain the color of the countertops.
