How to Care for Granite and Engineered Stone Countertops.

Granite and engineered stone countertops are a premium addition to any kitchen or bathroom — not only do they look beautiful, but they’re also extremely durable. However, to keep them looking their best and prolong their lifespan, proper care and maintenance is essential.

In this post, we’ll walk you through practical tips on how to care for your granite and engineered stone countertops.

Understanding the Difference

Granite is a natural stone, porous by nature, and needs occasional sealing. Engineered stone (also known as quartz surfaces) is man-made using crushed stone and resin, making it non-porous and low maintenance.

Daily Cleaning Tips

What to Use:

• A soft cloth or sponge

• Warm water

• Mild dish soap

 Avoid:

• Harsh chemicals (like ammonia or bleach)

• Scouring pads or abrasive cleaners

Pro Tip: In South Africa, brands like Handy Andy or Domestos are too harsh for stone surfaces. Stick to gentle, pH-neutral cleaners.

Weekly or Deep Cleaning

For a more thorough clean:

1. Mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap

2. Wipe the entire surface with a damp cloth

3. Dry with a microfiber towel to avoid streaks

For granite, avoid letting water sit on the surface for too long — it can cause watermarks or dull spots over time.

Sealing Granite Countertops

Granite needs to be sealed every 1–2 years depending on the stone and usage. You can test this by dropping a few drops of water on the surface:

• If it beads up: it's still sealed

• If it soaks in time to reseal

Most local tile or hardware stores in SA sell stone sealer products — just make sure it’s suitable for natural stone.

What to Avoid (Both Granite & Quartz)

• Hot pots and pans: Always use a trivet or heat pad.

• Cutting directly on the surface: It may dull your knives and scratch the countertop.

• Spills of acidic substances like lemon juice, vinegar, or wine — these can stain granite if not sealed properly and may dull engineered stone over time.

  
  

Extra Tips for South African Homes

• In coastal areas, wipe down stone more regularly to avoid salt build-up.

• In bushveld or rural homes, use dust covers or cloths if countertops are not used daily.

• For households using borehole water: minerals can leave residue — clean with distilled water once a week to avoid build-up.

  
  

Final Word

With the right care, your granite or engineered stone countertops will stay as stunning as the day they were installed. Whether you’re prepping meals or entertaining guests, clean and well-maintained surfaces add value and elegance to your space.