Holiday TLC for Stone Countertops

The holiday season is a busy one for both you and your kitchen. Whether it's cooking and baking, entertaining, or grab-and-go meals, your beautiful stone countertops are the place where lots of that activity happens.

Some simple routine care and cleaning will keep those countertops in tiptop condition.

Natural stone products, including granite, marble, and limestone, are porous by nature and require a different maintenance program than manufactured surfaces. Natural stone should be cleaned with a neutral cleaner. Stone cleaners should never contain acid or bleach. Acids, even a light solution of vinegar and water, will etch and eventually damage natural stone.

• Stone Cleaners: Glass Plus, warm soapy water, or a cleaner made specifically for your stone surface is recommended for day-to-day cleaning of stone countertops. If using soap and water on polished stone, rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. Otherwise, a soapy buildup can affect the surface's shine.
• Heavy-Duty Stone Cleaning: When some areas have been neglected, you will need to use a heavy-duty stone cleaner and degreaser to effectively remove dirt, grease, and grime. These cleaning products are concentrated to deep clean the stone without damaging it.
• Stain Removal: Stone poultice will remove stains and grout haze from stone. Special stain removing poultice can be purchased at most home improvement stores or tile stores. CAUTION: Poultice may dull the shine of the polished stone. If this occurs you will need to use a stone polish to restore the natural shine.

General tip: While heat-resistant granite can handle the direct heat of hot items such as pots and pans, other natural stones may scorch or discolor. To protect the surface, rest hot items on trivets or thick potholders.

Once the holidays are over, here's how to check and see if resealing your countertop should be on your list of New Year's resolutions: Place a glass of ice water on the countertop. Wait until condensation forms on the outside of the glass and leaves a ring of water on the countertop. Then wipe away and look for a dark ring. If there is a ring, then it is time to reseal the countertop.

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