Granite countertops are one of the most durable and stunning surfaces you can install in your kitchen or bathroom. But while they’re built to last, they still need proper care to maintain their natural beauty and performance.
At Crowley’s Granite & Quartz, we’ve installed thousands of granite countertops across Portland, and we always walk our clients through proper maintenance during installation. In this guide, we’re sharing our professional tips for cleaning, sealing, and maintaining your granite surfaces—so they stay looking as incredible as the day they were installed.
Why Granite Maintenance Matters
Granite is a natural stone, which means it’s porous to varying degrees. Without the right care, it can absorb spills or become dull over time. But the good news? Granite is easy to maintain—as long as you follow a few simple steps.
Routine maintenance:
- Protects your investment
- Prevents stains and etching
- Keeps the finish vibrant and polished
- Extends the life and integrity of the surface
Daily Granite Cleaning Routine
Your day-to-day cleaning routine doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, less is more when it comes to keeping granite looking great.
What You’ll Need:- Soft microfiber cloth or sponge
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Optional: granite-safe daily cleaner
- Wipe spills immediately to prevent staining (especially oils, wine, juice, or coffee).
- Use a soft cloth or sponge dampened with warm water and a drop of dish soap.
- Avoid harsh cleaners like bleach, ammonia, vinegar, or anything acidic or abrasive.
- Dry with a clean towel to prevent water spots or streaking.
Pro Tip from Crowley’s: Never use glass cleaner, bathroom sprays, or multi-surface products on granite. They can break down the sealer and dull the finish.
Weekly or Deep Cleaning Routine
Once a week (or as needed), give your counters a deeper clean using a granite-specific cleaner that reinforces the seal and enhances shine.
Recommended products:
- Granite Gold Daily Cleaner
- Weiman Granite Cleaner & Polish
- StoneTech Revitalizer
These are pH-balanced and designed to clean without damaging the stone’s natural finish.
How to Seal Granite Countertops
Granite should be sealed once every 1–2 years, depending on the type of stone and how heavily it’s used. Sealing helps block stains and moisture from penetrating the surface.
Step-by-Step Guide:- Clean the surface thoroughly. Make sure it’s completely dry.
- Apply a granite sealer (spray-on or wipe-on) according to the label.
- Let it absorb for the recommended time—usually 10–15 minutes.
- Wipe off excess with a clean cloth.
- Buff the surface with a dry microfiber towel for a polished finish.
Test Your Seal: Drip a small amount of water on the surface. If it beads up, your seal is still intact. If it darkens the stone, it’s time to reseal.
What to Avoid with Granite Countertops
Even though granite is tough, it’s not indestructible. Here’s what we advise our Portland clients to avoid:
- Acidic or abrasive cleaners (vinegar, lemon juice, bleach, ammonia)
- Scrubbing pads or steel wool
- Leaving standing water, especially near seams or around sinks
- Cutting directly on the surface (protect your knives and the finish)
- Dragging heavy pots or appliances across the surface
These can weaken the sealant, dull the finish, or scratch the stone over time.
How to Handle Common Granite Issues
Stains
- Use a poultice paste (baking soda + water for oil-based stains, baking soda + hydrogen peroxide for water-based)
- Apply to the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and let sit for 24–48 hours before wiping clean
Etching or Dull Spots
- Caused by acidic spills—can be minimized with professional polishing
- Use a granite polish to restore shine (for minor dullness only)
Chips or Cracks
- Call a professional fabricator (like us!) for repair or epoxy fill
Long-Term Granite Care Tips
- Reseal every 12–24 months depending on usage
- Schedule professional polishing every few years for high-gloss restoration
- Use cutting boards, trivets, and coasters for added protection
Remember: The better you care for your granite, the better it will serve your kitchen for decades.
Final Thoughts: Make Your Granite Last a Lifetime
Granite countertops are a beautiful, practical investment—but they need the right care to maintain their natural strength and shine. With a simple cleaning routine, proper sealing, and smart use, your countertops will remain a showpiece for years to come.
Need help identifying your granite type or checking your seal? We offer maintenance advice to every Crowley’s client—even years after installation.
Request a free consultation or care advice »
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Crowley
Written by Crowley’s Granite & Quartz
With over two decades of experience installing and maintaining granite countertops in Portland homes, Crowley’s provides expert guidance from fabrication through the life of your stone. We offer installation, care advice, and repair support for every granite surface we touch.