Granite countertops have become a must have in updated kitchens throughout the U.S., and with good reason. They look great and they last much longer than most other kinds of countertop. However, many people still aren’t sure how to clean them properly, so we thought we’d give you a few top tips on how to keep your granite countertops clean, hygienic and looking great for years to come.

1. Always ensure that your countertops are properly sealed. Granite is a very hard stone, but it can still be slightly porous if it’s not properly sealed, and colored liquids can still stain the surface. Check whether your countertops are well sealed by dropping a little water on the surface. It should bead on the surface and stay there for several minutes. If it soaks into the surface, it’s time to reseal!
2. Dust counters before you wipe them clean, and make sure that you never use abrasive cleaners. Grit, dust and abrasive cleaners can scratch the surface of the stone, damaging the seal and the overall look of the countertop.
3. Avoid harsh cleaners, lemon, bleach, vinegar and baking soda. All of these can damage the finish on your countertops over time.
4. Wipe up spills as soon as they happen with a clean, slightly damp cloth. This will help prevent liquids from soaking into the stone if the seal is a little less than perfect, as well as any sticky messes that require rough removal.
5. The best products for cleaning granite countertops are a soft cloth, mild dish soap and a little elbow grease. When cleaned and wiped down daily, these should be all you need to keep your counters in good shape.
6. If your counters need disinfecting, avoid using bleach and other harsh chemicals. Instead, make a 50-50 solution of water and isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle, spray it on, leave for a few minutes and wipe off.
7. Speak to a granite specialist or your builder about recommended products for granite countertops. There are specially formulated products designed to use on granite that won’t damage the surface.
8. If your countertop has been scratched or chipped, don’t try to repair the problem yourself. Damage to granite can be tricky to repair, and you might do more harm than good. Contact a local specialist and have them refinish and repair as necessary.
9. Bear in mind that sometimes, when granite has been subjected to very heavy wear and tear, or is severely cracked or damaged, it may make more sense to replace than to repair. Again, a professional should be able to advise you best about this.

Granite is hard, hard-wearing and beautiful, and with proper care and attention, it should give you years of trouble-free service. Remember to avoid abrasives, skip harsh chemicals and check the seal from time to time and you should have no trouble keeping your countertops looking as good as the day they were installed.