Common Mistakes When Cleaning Granite and How to Avoid Them

Granite is a favorite among many due to its elegant appearance and high durability. However, this luxurious material requires special care to maintain its long-lasting beauty. To preserve the quality of your granite, it's essential to understand the correct maintenance techniques.

This includes selecting the right cleaning products, effective methods for removing stains, and routine care such as sealing. This article will guide you on how to properly care for granite, including how to remove stubborn stains without damaging the surface, so your granite looks brand new for years to come.

Common Mistakes in Cleaning Granite

1. Using Acidic Cleaners

One of the most common mistakes when cleaning granite is using cleaners that contain acidic chemicals. Cleaners made with vinegar, lemon juice, or bathroom cleaning products that are abrasive and acidic should be strictly avoided.

If the sealant on the granite is damaged, it becomes more susceptible to absorbing stains, chemicals, and moisture, which can leave hard-to-remove marks and ruin the overall appearance of the surface.

2. Letting Spills Sit Too Long

Another frequent mistake is leaving spills, such as coffee, cooking oil, sauces, or colored drinks on the granite surface for too long.

Even though granite appears solid and durable, it still contains micro-pores that can absorb liquids and leave permanent stains if the sealant is no longer effective. As part of stain removal on granite, it is crucial to clean any spills immediately using a soft, dry cloth.

3. Using Abrasive Cleaning Tools

Many people mistakenly believe that rough cleaning tools like steel wool, metal brushes, or coarse cloths are more effective in removing dirt from granite.

In reality, these tools can scratch the surface, causing microscopic damage that gradually dulls the natural shine of the granite. To preserve the smoothness and appearance, it’s best to use high-quality microfiber cloths or soft-bristle synthetic brushes.

4. Neglecting Resealing

Sealant is a vital component in protecting natural stone surfaces, including granite. This protective layer is not permanent and can wear down over time due to friction, chemical exposure, and moisture.

Failing to reseal granite regularly may reduce its resistance to stains and moisture, increasing the risk of scratches. To maintain surface quality and durability, regularly check the sealant and reapply it every 1 to 2 years or as recommended by the sealant manufacturer.

How to Clean Granite

1. Perform Routine Deep Cleaning

The most basic step in cleaning granite is to perform thorough cleanings at regular intervals. Even though granite is tough and damage-resistant, it can still degrade without proper care.

Use pH-neutral cleaners specifically formulated for natural stone, including granite. Cleaning should be done using a microfiber cloth or soft, non-abrasive mop.

2. Use the Crystallization Method

To restore the shine of dull granite surfaces, crystallization is a highly recommended professional method. This involves using special crystal powders that chemically react with the calcium content in the granite.

This process not only restores shine but also adds a protective layer that improves resistance to fine scratches and liquid stains.

3. Mechanical Polishing

Another option for cleaning and restoring granite’s natural gloss is mechanical polishing using specialized polishing machines.

These machines use pads with varying levels of abrasiveness, starting with coarse pads to remove dirt and fine scratches, then gradually using finer pads until the surface becomes smooth and shiny.

4. Reapplying Sealer

After cleaning or polishing, the next important step is reapplying a sealer or protective layer to the granite surface. This is particularly crucial if you want to make future cleaning and stain removal easier.

Choose a sealer that matches the type of granite you have, as each stone has different absorption and hardness characteristics. Regular sealer application, typically every one to two years, is highly recommended to maintain durability and natural shine.

Proper granite care is the key to preserving its beauty and longevity. The right way to clean granite includes using pH-neutral products, avoiding abrasives, and quickly addressing spills.

If you're looking for granite that is not only strong but also stylish, Meliuz Granite is the perfect choice. Designed for a wide range of spaces, Meliuz granite is durable and easy to maintain, so it always looks sleek and stunning.