8 Granite Countertop Care Tips for Long-Lasting Shine

Assuming you have invested in granite countertops in Winnipeg, as you probably have, you most certainly desire that they look shiny and beautiful all these years. Granite is robust and elegant, and, as with anything that you add to your kitchen, it requires the appropriate care.

Simple maintenance should not be overlooked since this might result in a dull place, stain, or even damage. The upside? Maintenance of granite does not involve the use of harsh chemicals and the use of expensive tools.

In this post, we are going to be providing you with 8 simple care tips that will have your granite counters looking as fresh, clean, and shiny as they should be.

Why Do Granite Countertops Lose Their Shine?

Although granite remains one of the hardest stones installed in kitchens, it is by no means immune to wear and tear. In active Winnipeg household kitchens:

Cooking oil splashes out. That hurt!

• Coffee, wine, or juice spills

• Deposits of hard water using sinks

• Grit or rough cleansing pad micro-scratches

These tiny things may give granite a dull appearance in the course of time.

Tip 1: Wipe Spills Right Away

Granite can stain if liquids sit for too long.

Especially dark liquids like wine, soy sauce, or oil — they can soak in and leave spots.

What to Do:

• Clean spills immediately they occur.

• A soft cloth and warm water should be used.

• When dealing with greasy spills, add a little bit of dishwashing soap.

Pro Tip: No paper towels are used; they leave lint or scratches after a while.

TIP 2: Clean with a pH-Balanced Cleaner

Aboriginal harsh chemicals may obscure the polish.

Granite is too acidic/alkaline to be cleaned with cleaners such as vinegar or lemon juice, ammonia or bleach. These have the ability of eating through the seal and causing the stone to appear cloudy.

Use This Instead:

• A stone-safe cleaner labelled for granite.

• Or mix mild dish soap with warm water.

Quick Homemade Mix:

• 1 tsp mild dish soap

• 2 cups warm water

• Spray bottle + microfibre cloth

Stat: According to The Spruce, over 60% of granite countertop dullness is caused by incorrect cleaners.

Tip 3: Avoid Abrasive Tools

Scrubbing pads, steel wool, or rough cloths can scratch granite.

These small scratches may not be visible right away, but they collect dust and reduce the surface shine over time.

Use Soft Tools Only:

• Microfibre cloths

• Soft sponges

• Chamois cloth for drying

Pro Tip: Always wipe dry after cleaning to avoid water spots.

Tip 4: Reseal Your Countertops Once a Year

Granite is naturally porous. Sealing helps block stains and keep the surface glossy.

Most granite counters are sealed when installed, but that protection wears off.

How to Check If You Need Resealing:

1. Sprinkle a few drops of water on your counter.

2. Wait 10 minutes.

3. If water darkens the stone, it’s time to reseal.

Resealing Tips:

• Use a granite sealer (available at home stores).

• Apply evenly, let it sit, then buff with a dry cloth.

Stat: 85% of granite homeowners in Canada reseal their counters annually.

Tip 5: Don't Place Hot Pots Directly

Yes, granite handles heat — but it’s not immune.

Sudden temperature changes can create small cracks or weaken the sealant.

Always Use:

• Trivets or hot pads

• Wooden or silicone mats under slow cookers or cast iron pans

Pro Tip: It's not just about cracks — heat can also cause discolouration over time.

Tip 6: Skip Harsh Chemicals

We’ve mentioned vinegar and bleach before — but also watch out for:

• Glass cleaners

• Bathroom tile sprays

• Degreasers

These products often contain ingredients that damage the granite surface.

Safe Alternatives:

• pH-neutral stone cleaners

• DIY water + dish soap mix

Stat: 1 in 4 homeowners unknowingly use unsafe cleaners on their granite.

Tip 7: Buff the Surface Weekly

Buffing brings back that “like-new” shine.

It doesn’t take long and keeps the surface smooth.

Here’s How:

• Use a clean microfibre cloth

• Move in small circles

• Do it after every deep clean

Pro Tip: Buffing also helps prevent water rings and fingerprint marks.

Tip 8: Use Cutting Boards

Granite is tough, but your knives aren’t.

Cutting directly on granite can dull your blades and may create surface nicks over time.

Always Use:

• Wooden cutting boards

• Silicone or plastic boards for meat or juicy items

Bonus: Cutting boards help keep bacteria off your counter surface.

Want Low-Maintenance Granite in Winnipeg?

In search of granite countertops in Winnipeg that can remain gorgeous through the years with hardly any maintenance?

At Rockwood Stone Countertops, we sell prestigious granite that is sealed and polished to be able to withstand busy kitchens in Canada. We guide you through choosing the correct slab and putting it in place and provide you with some tips on caring that suit your lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

Granite countertops are an investment in fashion and robustness. All it takes are a couple of easy habits to make them feel good as new over many decades.

Do you already have granite and need to know how to make it last, or do you intend to put in granite in your Winnipeg home? These 8 care tips should ensure that you get the maximum out of your stone and your space.