• About Granite
• Granite Stock Colors
• Granite Exotic Colors
• Countertop Edge Profiles
• Granite Care Tips
• Customizing Your Granite
• Galleries

Granite Natural Stone Care & Maintenance

Granite Cleaning Recommendations

Natural stone surfaces can be cleaned with a small amount of neutral cleaner, stone soap or a mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. A rag mop can be used on floors and a soft cloth for other surfaces. Too much cleaner may leave a film or cause streaks.
Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids on any natural stone surfaces. Rinse the surface thoroughly after cleaning and dry with a soft cloth. Do not use products that contain abrasives because they may scratch the surface.
Soap scum can be minimized by using a squeegee after each use. To remove soap scum, use a non-acidic soap scum remover or a solution of ammonia and water (about 1/2 cup ammonia to a gallon of water). Frequent or over-use of an ammonia solution may eventually dull the surface of the stone.

Granite Sealing & Maintenance

Cleaning your countertops after each meal is the best recommendation for avoiding cleaning issues with your natural stone!
If a homeowner cleans their countertops after each meal, they will rarely, if ever, have staining or cleaning issues with their natural stone. Granite countertops receive additional benefit from being sealed. That benefit is the further reduction of moisture migration into an already moisture resistant surface.
Once properly sealed, the stone will be more resistant against everyday dirt and spills. Sealing is a simple process that takes no more time than cleaning. Simply wipe a small amount of sealer over the entire stone’s surface, leave it to set for a minute or two, and wipe the surface again with a clean, dry cloth to ensure the sealant is even.
SCI - Surface Center recommends using coasters under all glasses, particularly those containing alcohol or citrus juices. Many common foods and drinks contain acids that can dull the surface of natural stone. Do not place hot items directly on the stone surface. Though granite will not scorch, the heat can be harbored in the stone. We recommend always using trivets under hot dishes and placemats under china, ceramics, silver or other objects that can cause scratches. Recommended cleaning products are on display and available at our Countertop Showroom!