Including Granite, Marble, and Quartzite
In each kitchen, you will find a staggering variety of countertop selections. Marble, granite, soapstone, and quartzite each have their own unique striking features and care requirements. To maintain the appearance of any surface, you must take the necessary precautions and prevent scratching and intense heat exposure. Consider these expert tips for cleaning kitchen countertops based on the material you have, in addition to buying a good cutting board and avoiding direct heat contact.
We will place more emphasis on the three essential natural stones: marble, granite, and quartzite.
Tools for the job
To begin, we'll just outline the necessary items you'll need to get started.
-Water
-Soap
-A regular old cloth can suffice, but a microfiber one is ideal.
-Baking soda
-Hydrogen peroxide
-Plastic wrap
-Tape
Tip #1 - Cleanliness
When it comes to general cleaning, we like to use a solution of warm water and a gentle dish soap. After that, we suggest buffing the stone with a microfiber cloth to bring out its shine. Cleansers that are abrasive or acidic should be avoided since they may remove the sealer and damage the stone.
"A shiny kitchen countertop says simple and clean like nothing else." - Actor Jeff Goldblum
Tip #2 - Stain removal
For granite or marble surfaces with oil-based stains, use a paste of baking soda and water or hydrogen peroxide (for water-based stains). Apply the paste to the stain, then wrap it with plastic wrap and tape the edges. Remove the mixture with water after a few days (or at the very least, overnight). If the stain is not completely eliminated, the process must be repeated. Do a spot test first to make sure that the treatment won't change the color or shine of the stone.
Tip #3 - Sealing
Last but not least, known for their popular rock-like toughness, these surfaces must be resealed often to prevent staining. Seal granite annually and marble every couple of months. A moisture-resistant oil-based sealer should be used whether you do it yourself or hire a professional to perform it on the job site. Most are supposed to last years when applied correctly. These sealants are frequently referred to as impregnating stone sealers since they permeate the stone more thoroughly than surface sealers.
In conclusion
At 301 Granite, we will not keep any secrets from you about the best methods for ensuring that your freshly placed countertops continue to exude an air of untarnished beauty for many years to come. Whether you decide to go with a piece of marble or granite that is spectacular in beauty and style, we are here to help you make the best choice possible out of the tens of thousands of different possibilities that are accessible to you.