You might not think that a piece of rock, hewn by volcanic forces over millennia, is something that needs to be cared for – but to get the best out of your granite or quartz worktops, you need to give it a bit of Stone Genie TLC. This blog post will run through some simple tips that will make your worktop last through generations, meaning your statement stoneware will be enjoyed for decades to come.
Know the differences between the stones
An important thing to know from day one is the differences between granite worktops and their quartz counterparts, as this knowledge definitely comes in handy when caring for them long-term.
Granite is a material quarried from the ground, and is strongly resilient to both heat and scratches. However, as it is a porous rock that water seeps through, spillages on your granite worktop can permeate in much the same way as a natural underground aquifer does. This can cause a slight dulling to the finish of your worktop, so make sure you wipe away errant liquids as soon as they present themselves.
Quartz, on the other hand, is non-porous, meaning water won’t penetrate its surface – but wiping away stains and spillages is a reliable stone care tip that should extend to all types of worktop!
Use the right cleaner
Making sure you know the pH levels of your kitchen cleaner is a vital step towards making sure that your worktop lasts a lifetime. When cleaning quartz worktops, make sure you’re using a mildly acidic or alkaline cleaner – strongly acidic cleaners can damage the surface, and the same applies to heavy duty products such as bleach.
Cleaning granite worktops requires a little more care. A pH neutral cleaner will do the trick, along with plenty of warm water and a damp cloth. Keeping both of these types of stone worktop clean will definitely add to their longevity, and will make your kitchen look stunning for longer.
Think beyond stone
Ceramic and solid surface worktops also require some care in order for them to keep their sheen in the long term. Ceramic is extremely hard-wearing, so it requires little more than a mild detergent and a cloth to keep it looking sharp – while a solid surface worktop is a non-porous option made of wholly manmade materials, which stands up to the sternest of kitchen tests.
Taking care of this type of worktop is as simple as cleaning regularly and making sure hot pots and pans aren’t left on the surface for long periods – the same applies to ceramic, even though it boasts superior heat-resistant properties.
Caring for our bespoke range of worktop products means keeping an eye on what you place upon the surfaces and making sure you’re using the correct cleaner. If you’re inspired to invest in a long-lasting, expertly crafted and installed Stone Genie worktop, take a look at our online quote estimator or give send us an email at hello@stonegenie.co.uk, where you’ll be connected with an expert advisor.