Daily Cleaning and Long-Term Care for Natural Stone Counters

Natural stone countertops bring unmatched beauty and durability to your home, but proper care ensures they stay stunning for years. Follow these daily cleaning tips and long-term maintenance steps to protect your investment.

Daily Cleaning Routine

• Use a Mild, pH-Neutral Cleaner
  Wipe surfaces with warm water and a gentle stone-safe cleaner or a mix of mild dish soap and water. Avoid acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon juice, which can etch stone.
• Soft Cloth or Sponge
  Use a soft microfiber cloth or non-abrasive sponge to prevent scratches.
• Immediate Spill Cleanup
  Blot spills- especially wine, coffee, or oil- right away to prevent staining.

Weekly and Monthly Care

• Check for Dull Spots or Etching
  Inspect high-traffic areas like prep zones or sink surrounds for changes in shine.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals
  Skip bleach, ammonia, and abrasive powders, which can break down the stone’s seal.

Long-Term Maintenance

• Sealing
  Granite, marble, and quartzite typically need resealing every 1–2 years. Test by sprinkling a few drops of water; if it darkens the stone within minutes, it’s time to reseal.
• Professional Polishing
  Have your countertops professionally polished every few years to restore luster and remove minor scratches.
• Heat Protection
  Use trivets or hot pads under pots and pans even though natural stone is heat resistant. Sudden thermal shock can still cause cracks.

• Granite: Very durable but benefits from yearly sealing.
• Marble: Softer and more porous, requiring frequent sealing and gentle handling.
• Quartzite: Strong like granite but still needs sealing to avoid etching.
• Quartz (Engineered): Non-porous and low maintenance; sealing not required but avoid direct heat.
• Porcelain: Extremely low maintenance, just regular cleaning with mild soap.

Why Proper Care Matters

Well-maintained natural stone keeps its beauty and protects your home’s value. Consistent care prevents stains, maintains shine, and extends the life of your countertops.

Need Expert Help?
The team at Stanley’s Marble & Granite provides professional sealing, polishing, and stone maintenance services to keep your countertops looking like new. Contact us today to schedule an in-home consultation.