How To Clean And Maintain Stone Countertops Naturally

Not only do natural stone countertops look attractive in your kitchen, they're durable and easy to maintain as well. Countertops are made with a wide variety of stones, such as granite, travertine, limestone, marble, slate and quartz, which each have their own unique look.

When  choosing the perfect type of stone countertop for your home, consider your kitchen's overall design style. If it has a sleek, modern look, you can choose a black, white and grey marble stone. For a more earthy, Tuscan-inspired style, rustic limestone, slate or travertine may be more your match. Several stones come in a variety of colors, such as white, gold, grey, or a combination of hues. 

While each stone type has its own special qualities that set it apart from the rest, they can all be cleaned and maintained using natural, chemical-free products. It's also important to avoid using harsh cleaning tools, such as steel wool or pumice, on the natural stone countertops. Although the stones are strong, they are still vulnerable to scratching and chipping. 

Here are are some tips for cleaning and maintaining your stone kitchen counters:

1. Clean Up Spills Immediately

If you can, soak up any spilled liquids, from water to coffee, right away to avoid staining the stone. Some natural stones are porous and can quickly absorbs liquids, especially if they aren't sealed with a protective barrier.

Press a clean, absorbent cloth, such as a microfiber towel, onto the spill, ringing it out and repeating the process as much as needed. You can then follow up with a gentle glass or all-purpose cleaner to remove any residue. 

2. Daily Cleaning

After cooking on the countertops, or on a daily basis, wipe the stone down with soapy water to clean and disinfect. Add a few drops of a grease-fighting dish detergent to warm water and apply it to the counter using a clean cloth. Move the cloth over the surface using a circular motion, and rinse using another towel moistened with plain water. 

3. Deep-Cleaning 

If you prepared a greasy meal on the countertops, or if you want to perform a weekly or monthly deep-cleaning, use a degreasing product designed for use on your specific stone type. If you're not sure what to use, check the manufacturer's recommendations, and test a small, inconspicuous area first.

No matter what type of stone the countertops are made of, avoid using abrasive, acid-based or alkaline cleaners, which can damage the surface. 

If you're thinking about getting new countertops, contact Artisan Granite & Marble today!