Do Granite Worktops Stain?
Do granite worktops stain?
Granite is a popular choice for worktops because it is durable, heat-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing. As well as it’s natural beauty, it has a lot of advantages for use outdoors because it is weather resistant. One drawback however is that it requires a lot of maintenance as it is susceptible to staining.
What causes granite to stain?
Granite is a porous material, which means that it has tiny holes in its surface. These holes can trap liquids and other substances, which can lead to staining. Some of the most common substances that can stain granite include:
- Water
- Alcohol
- Acidic liquids, such as fruit juice, vinegar, and wine
- Hot pans
- Oils and grease
- Food dyes
- Makeup
How to prevent granite worktops from staining
The best way to prevent granite worktops from staining is to seal them regularly. A sealant will create a barrier on the surface of the granite, which will help to prevent liquids and other substances from penetrating the stone.
It is important to note that no sealant is permanent, and you will need to reseal your granite worktops every year, or more often if they are used heavily.
In addition to sealing your granite worktops, you should also take care to clean up spills immediately. The longer a stain sits on granite, the more difficult it will be to remove.
The best way to remove stains from granite worktops
If you do get a stain on your granite worktops, there are a few things you can try to remove it.
- For water and alcohol stains, try wiping up the spill immediately with a dry cloth. If the stain is still visible, you can try using a mild dish soap and water solution.
- For acidic stains, such as fruit juice and vinegar or lemon, try wiping up the spill immediately with a damp cloth. You can then try using a baking soda paste to neutralize the acid.
- For oil and grease stains, try wiping up the spill immediately with a dry cloth. You can then try using a commercial granite cleaner or a mixture of cornstarch and baking soda.
- For food dye stains, try wiping up the spill immediately with a damp cloth. You can then try using a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice.
- For makeup stains, try wiping up the spill immediately with a dry cloth. You can then try using a commercial granite cleaner or a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water.
Conclusion
Granite worktops are a beautiful and durable choice for kitchens and bathrooms. However, it is important to be aware that they can stain if they are not properly sealed and cleaned. By following the tips above, you can help to keep your granite worktops looking their best for years to come.
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