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How to care for granite worktops: easy tips for lasting shine Blog

How to care for granite worktops: easy tips for lasting shine

Granite worktops are renowned for their natural beauty, strength, and timeless appeal. Their bold patterns and elegant textures make them a popular choice in both traditional and modern British kitchens. While granite is one of the most durable natural stones, it still requires a degree of care to maintain its shine and longevity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about caring for your granite surfaces, ensuring they remain a stunning centrepiece in your home for years to come.

What Makes Granite Unique?

Granite is a natural igneous rock formed from cooled magma, giving each slab a distinctive pattern and colouring. It’s incredibly hard and resistant to scratches, heat, and general wear. However, granite is also porous, meaning it can absorb liquids and become stained if not properly sealed.

Key Features:

  • Each piece is unique in colour and veining
  • Highly heat-resistant, ideal for kitchen use
  • Requires sealing to prevent stains
  • Adds long-term value to your home

Understanding the properties of granite helps in adopting the right care practices to protect and enhance its natural elegance.

Daily cleaning tips

Keeping your granite worktop clean on a daily basis is simple and effective with the right approach:

Do’s:

  • Wipe spills immediately with a soft cloth
  • Use a mild, pH-neutral cleaner or a mixture of warm water and a few drops of washing-up liquid
  • Use a microfibre or soft cloth to avoid surface scratches

Don’ts:

  • Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or vinegar
  • Refrain from using abrasive pads or rough sponges

This simple daily routine preserves the surface shine and prevents dirt build-up.

Sealing Granite Worktops

One of the most important aspects of granite maintenance is sealing. A quality sealant creates a barrier against liquids and stains, enhancing the surface’s durability.

How Often Should You Seal Granite?

  • Typically every 12 to 24 months
  • High-use areas may require more frequent sealing

Signs It Needs Resealing:

  • Water no longer beads on the surface
  • Dull or patchy appearance
  • Increased staining

How to Seal Granite:

  1. Clean the surface thoroughly and let it dry
  2. Apply the sealant evenly with a clean cloth
  3. Allow it to absorb for the time recommended by the manufacturer
  4. Wipe off excess and buff to shine

Stain Removal Techniques

Even sealed granite can occasionally develop stains. Here’s how to address common culprits:

Oil-Based Stains (e.g., cooking oil, butter):

  • Use a baking soda and water paste
  • Apply to the stain, cover with cling film, and leave overnight
  • Wipe clean the next day

Wine, Coffee or Juice Stains:

  • Use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda
  • Let it sit for several hours before wiping

Limescale or Water Marks:

  • Use a limescale remover that is granite-safe or a mix of water and rubbing alcohol

Avoid harsh chemicals or DIY methods that include vinegar or lemon juice, as they can etch the granite surface.

Preventing Damage

While granite is resilient, it’s not indestructible. Following these prevention tips will help maintain its pristine condition:

  • Always use chopping boards to avoid direct knife contact
  • Use trivets or heat pads under hot pans, despite granite’s heat resistance
  • Wipe up spills promptly to avoid potential staining
  • Avoid standing or sitting on the worktop, which can lead to cracking at weak points

These simple precautions extend the lifespan of your granite worktop and keep it looking its best.

Polishing for Lasting Shine

Regular polishing enhances the granite’s natural brilliance and provides an extra layer of protection.

How to Polish Granite Safely:

  • Use a granite-specific polish or a mild polishing cream
  • Apply a small amount and buff using a microfibre cloth
  • Avoid wax-based or general household polishes

Frequency:

  • Once every 1–2 months, or as needed depending on usage

Long-Term Maintenance Checklist

To ensure your granite worktops remain in peak condition, follow this practical maintenance schedule:

Weekly:

  • Clean with a pH-neutral cleaner
  • Buff dry with a microfibre cloth

Monthly:

  • Light polish for added shine

Annually:

  • Evaluate whether resealing is required
  • Perform a full surface inspection for damage or dullness

As Needed:

  • Address stains promptly
  • Consult a professional for deep restoration or chip repair

Why Granite from Worktop Warehouse Stands Out

At Worktop Warehouse, we supply premium-grade granite worktops handpicked for quality, colour consistency, and resilience. Here’s why our customers across the UK trust us:

  • Expertly sourced natural granite from top global quarries
  • Pre-sealed surfaces for convenience and protection
  • Professional installation with precision and care
  • Aftercare support, including sealants, polishes, and advice

Our team is committed to ensuring your granite surfaces look as luxurious years from now as they did on day one.

Conclusion

With the right care and a bit of attention, granite worktops can remain a beautiful and functional centrepiece in your home for decades. From daily cleaning to annual sealing, a consistent maintenance routine not only preserves the surface but enhances the long-term value of your investment.

If you’re considering granite for your home or looking for aftercare advice, the team at Worktop Warehouse is here to help. Contact us or visit our showroom for personalised guidance.


Looking for expert advice or custom worktop solutions?
Contact our team today to explore a wide range of outdoor kitchen worktops that are built to last and designed to impress. Or get a quick quote through our online quote form here.