Granite countertops are one of the most desirable upgrades for Arlington kitchens and bathrooms. Their natural beauty, incredible durability, and long-lasting value make them a top choice for homeowners looking to elevate their space. While granite is known for being tough, it does require proper maintenance to keep its shine, resist stains, and stay in top condition for years to come. If you’ve recently installed Arlington granite countertops, or you’re considering them for your home, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about care, cleaning, and long-term protection.
Why Granite Countertops Need Proper Care
Granite is a natural stone that forms deep within the earth. While extremely hard and resistant to heat, granite can still absorb liquids, etch from harsh chemicals, and lose its polished finish if not maintained correctly. Homeowners in Arlington often choose granite because it stands up well against high usage and humidity—however, proper care is essential to preserve its look and structural integrity.
Caring for your granite countertops isn’t complicated, but consistency is key. With the right routine, your countertops can remain as stunning as the day they were installed.
Daily Care Tips for Granite Countertops
1. Clean with a pH-Neutral Cleaner
Granite is sensitive to acidic or alkaline cleaners. Avoid products like bleach, vinegar, ammonia, or glass cleaner. These can dull the finish or break down the protective sealant.
Best Option:
Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner or a mix of mild dish soap and warm water. Simply spray or wipe your countertops and dry with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free finish.
2. Wipe Up Spills Immediately
Granite is porous. Although sealed, liquids can still seep in if left too long.
Watch out for spills from:
- Wine
- Coffee
- Oils
- Tomato sauce
- Citrus drinks
These substances can stain or etch the stone. Quickly wiping up any mess keeps your Arlington granite countertops looking flawless.
3. Use Soft Cloths or Sponges
Abrasive pads like steel wool can scratch granite’s surface. Stick to:
- Microfiber cloths
- Soft sponges
- Non-abrasive cleaning tools
This preserves the natural sheen and prevents surface scratches.
Weekly & Monthly Granite Care
1. Deep Clean with Stone-Safe Products
Give your countertops a deeper cleaning once a week with a stone-specific cleaner. This helps:
- Remove grease buildup
- Refresh the sealant
- Keep the surface polished
This is especially useful for busy households and kitchen spaces with heavy usage.
2. Perform a “Water Drop Test” Monthly
Sealing is crucial for protecting granite from stains. To test whether your granite needs resealing:
- Pour a tablespoon of water on the countertop.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- If the water beads → Your seal is still strong.
- If the water absorbs or darkens the stone → Resealing is needed.
For most households in Arlington, resealing once every 12 months is ideal, but high-use kitchens may require sealing every 6 months.
Long-Term Maintenance Tips
1. Reseal Granite Regularly
Granite sealers are easy to apply and make a huge difference in longevity. Sealing helps protect against:
- Stains
- Bacteria
- Grease penetration
- Water absorption
Professional sealing offers maximum protection, especially if your granite is lighter in color or located in heavily used areas.
2. Avoid Heat Stress
Always use:
Granite is heat-resistant but not heat-proof. Placing hot pots, pans, or slow cookers directly on the surface can cause shock fractures or dull the finish over time.
- Trivets
- Hot pads
- Cutting boards
This simple step protects your Arlington granite countertops from thermal damage.
3. Skip Harsh Chemicals
Avoid using:
- Vinegar
- Lemon-based cleaners
- Bleach
- Ammonia
- Grout cleaner
- Powdered scrubbing agents
These products can erode the protective seal, leading to dull spots or absorption issues.4. Use Cutting Boards
Granite is strong enough to handle knife blades, but:
- Cutting directly on granite dulls your knives
- Heavy chopping can wear on the surface over time
A wooden or plastic cutting board keeps both your knives and counters protected.
How to Remove Stains from Granite Countertops
Even with great care, stains can happen. The key is using the right method for the right type of stain.
Oil-Based Stains (grease, cooking oils, lotions)
Use a baking soda poultice:
- Mix baking soda with water until thick.
- Spread over the stain.
- Cover with plastic wrap overnight.
- Wipe clean in the morning.
Organic Stains (wine, coffee, fruit)
Use a hydrogen peroxide poultice:
- Mix peroxide with baking soda to form a paste.
- Apply over stain.
- Let sit 24 hours.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Water Spots or Mineral Deposits
Use a stone-safe mineral remover, never vinegar. Vinegar is highly acidic and can etch the stone.
How to Protect Granite Countertops from Damage
Follow these best practices to keep your Arlington granite countertops in pristine condition:
- Keep coasters under glasses
- Avoid leaving standing water near seams
- Don’t put appliances that produce heat directly on the surface
- Use placemats under dishes
- Avoid leaning or sitting on the edges
Granite is durable, but not unbreakable. Protecting the edges and surface helps prevent cracks or chips.
Why Granite Countertops Are Perfect for Arlington Homes
Homeowners in Arlington appreciate granite for its:
- High resale value
- Elegant natural look
- Heat resistance
- Ability to match any interior design
Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen, upgrading a bathroom, or designing a brand-new home, granite provides a timeless, upscale appearance that lasts for decades.
If you’re considering new countertops, or if your current ones need professional care, knowing how to maintain them will keep your investment beautiful for years to come.
About Southwest Tile
At Southwest Tile & Flooring, we proudly serve homeowners looking for the finest Arlington granite countertops and expert installation services. Our team brings decades of experience in stone work, tile installation, and custom surface design. Whether you need new countertops, professional maintenance, or a complete home renovation, we deliver craftsmanship you can trust. Contact us or visit our wesbite to explore our full range of granite and tile solutions today.