The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the home, many times it is on display when guests are over, so you want to keep it clean. Many homes today have granite counter tops, it’s one of the most popular trends in kitchen design. Granite counter tops are beautiful and with the proper care you can keep them that way.

Granite is a very durable stone, but you still need to use precautions so you don’t damage its appearance. Below are some helpful tips on how to easily maintain your granite’s appearance for years to come. 

• First and foremost you should seal your granite counter top. Sealing your granite will help keep it looking shiny and new. This should be done every one to two years, it all depends on the usage and your own personal preference.
• Clean up spills immediately. Although spills won’t etch the granite there is still the possibility of staining it. The longer you leave a spill sit the greater the chance it will result in a stain.
• Use sponge or soft cloth to clean your
  granite. It is recommended to use a formulated stone cleaner, it will help keep your counter tops in great condition and protect the sealer. If you are just looking to do a quick clean up hot water will do the trick.
• Always use coasters. Even though the granite won’t etch, it is still a good idea to take those extra steps to help protect your counters.
• Use hot pads under hot pots and pans. You can put your hot pots and pans directly on the counter top, but it is recommended to use a hot pad to avoid any damage from the heat and grit.  Yes, granite is very durable, but there is still the possibility that it can suffer “thermal shock” and crack. Also, grit can get trapped between the pot and the counter top and has the potential to cause light surface scratches.
• Cutting boards are a must. Always use a cutting board, it not only protects your counter tops but your knives as well.

These are a few tips to help maintain your beautiful granite counter tops, follow these and it should keep your granite looking great for years to come! It is always better to play it safe and take any precautions you can to potentially save your granite counter tops.