Granite is one of the most common materials used for kitchen countertops, but do you have any idea that there are certain things you will want to avoid to protect your granite countertops. Granite countertops have a unique, beautiful surface that offers excellent durability to withstand heat, stains, etc. It may be tougher than nails, but that doesn't mean that it won't get damaged.
To maintain the longer longevity of your granite countertops, you will need to avoid some common mistakes that will cause damage to your granite countertops. It can help to prevent repairs or replacements for your granite countertops.
So what are the things we should avoid to protect our granite countertops? This article will mention a few things you need to avoid to allow your granite countertops to maintain good care.
Things To Avoid #1: Working Raw Meat
Image Credit: Canva
Do you place your raw meat on your granite countertops? If so, you will want to stop it now. You might be thinking that your well-sealed granite countertops are clean and can keep bacteria away, the meat won't hurt the granite, but it will do something even worse.
Whatever is left behind by the meat might hurt if you place another food item on it. Raw meat is a source of bacteria and other microscopic pathogens. It can bring bacterial infection to your granite countertops. It can caused the surface unsanitary or smelly. You might hurt your granite to clean it as most of the cleansers can damage the sealant. It may even discolor the granite.
So to protect your granite countertops, avoid placing raw meat on your countertop. Get a cutting board and sanitize it with a granite-safe cleaning product after use.
Things To Avoid #2: Leaving Spills
Image Credit: Canva
Accidents happen. It is unavoidable that you may spill something oily or acidic over your granite countertops. The problem is how are you going to handle the situation after that spills. Remember one thing is that never leave spills on your granite countertop.
What will happen if you leave spills on the kitchen countertop? The spills will etch your granite's seal and stain your countertops. So ensure that you clean your countertop immediately. Make sure you get a cleanser that is safe for your granite countertops, and it will look good in no time.
Things To Avoid #3: Storing Liquids
Even with the best-sealed granite countertops, you should keep these liquids on other shelves. Any liquid formation, food containers, or personal hygiene items should be avoided from your granite countertops.
Things To Avoid #4: Putting Hot Pans
Image Credit: Canva
Another thing you will want to avoid is putting hot pans on your countertop. It is common that after you have cooked a lovely meal, the next you will be doing is placing the hot pans onto your countertop. Granite is able to withstand the heat of the hot pan, but it may only resist it for a brief period. It is best to put protection between the pan and your countertop.
Continuously placing a hot pan on your countertop will cause damage to it. Sealants are to prevent your countertop from stains and other damage. But too much heat will weaken the sealants and cause your granite to get dull. So the next time you want to put your hot pans onto the countertop, make sure to place trivets and potholders to extend the life of your countertops.
Things To Avoid #5: Sitting or Standing
Even granite is sturdy, but everything has a fault line. For granite, it is vulnerable to cracking under excessive weight. If you are not careful, sometimes climbing onto your granite countertops to get something from your kitchen cabinet may cause the stone to crack, especially when standing in an area where no support is fixed under the slab.
Make an effort to stay off your granite countertops. Talk to your family about avoiding sitting or standing on the countertop. If you have a wall kitchen cabinet and need to reach it often, consider buying step stools or a small ladder to avoid stepping on your countertops.
Things To Avoid #6: Using Harmful Cleaning Agents
Image Credit: Canva
You are trying to get rid of some stains on your granite countertop and thinking that vinegar will make the tricks work to get rid of the stains. If you think it is a good idea, then you are wrong. Caring for your granite countertops starts with using the right cleaning supplies. It will definitely be a long list of what not to use on your granite countertop.
Certain cleansers can damage your countertop's sealant. It would be best to avoid glass cleaners, bleach, vinegar, bathroom cleaners, and products with strong acids. These cleaning products can ensure no more stains remain on your countertop, but they will weaken your countertop and look dull in no time.
So what else can you use to clean your countertops? Try using a soft washcloth, some warm water, and mild soap such as dish soap to clean your granite countertops. Avoid using harsh chemicals to keep the sealant on your granite strong.
