Since granite is one of the strongest materials out there, people often think they can get away with anything. However, there are certain things that can destroy granite, and it is important to know what they are.
Understanding the proper cleaning procedures and what not to put on the granite countertops is the key to protecting your investment. Granite au Sommet has some of the highest quality granite and marbles. Check them out to beautify your homes today.
Things you should keep away from your granite countertop
- Raw meat.
Even if your granite countertop is completely sealed, it is still not recommended to work with raw meat. There are high chances of contamination with salmonella, and one should not risk it. Although the meat itself won’t hurt the granite, it might contaminate other food materials. Moreover, people often clean kitchen countertops with harsh chemicals after working with raw meat, which is not ideal for granite.
- Sharp knives.
Since granite is reputed to be a strong and hard material, many people assume that using sharp knives is perfectly fine. However, even the earth’s strongest rocks are not immune to cracks, chips, and scratches. Continuous abuse from sharp knives can make the granite surface dull. Moreover, cutting on granite can also dull your knives and increase prep time.
To protect your granite countertops, it is recommended to use a cutting board.
- Items that may stain.
Although granite does not easily stain, things with high pigment concentration can stain surfaces. This is especially important for people with kids as they frequently spill liquids. Moreover, countertops that are not sealed properly allow liquids to seep through and stain the surface.
Keep liquids and highly pigmented substances away from the countertop to avoid such problems. Choosing darker granite colors can avoid such issues.
- Acidic items.
Acidic substances can etch the surface of your granite countertops very easily, making them more vulnerable to stains. Here is a list of common acidic items that are often spilled on granite countertops.
- Vinegar
- Citrus fruits
- Soft drinks
- Perfume
- Lotions
- Nail polish
- Soaps
It is advised to always use cutting boards whenever working on the countertop.
- People.
You might not have expected this because this is a list of items that are harmful to granite countertops. However, human beings are not less dangerous either. Standing or sitting on granite is dangerous because the material is brittle and can break with so much weight on it. If you have children, make a point to ask them to avoid sitting or standing on your granite.
