Granite countertops are more than just a kitchen upgrade—they’re a long-term investment in style, durability, and home value. With its timeless appeal, natural beauty, and resilience, granite has become one of the most sought-after countertop materials. But just like any high-quality surface, granite requires proper maintenance and care to keep its shine, prevent damage, and extend its lifespan.

At Bath-Brite, we specialize in reglazing, resurfacing, and refinishing services, helping homeowners restore countertops, sinks, and tubs to their original brilliance. While granite doesn’t usually require reglazing like porcelain or tile, it still benefits from professional refinishing when dullness, scratches, or etching appear. This guide will cover the do’s and don’ts of granite countertop care, common mistakes to avoid, and expert tips for preserving their elegance.

Why Proper Granite Countertop Care Matters

Granite is known for its strength, but it isn’t indestructible. Over time, neglect or improper cleaning can cause issues such as:

  • Spills of acidic foods, wine, coffee, or oil that leave stains.
  • Etching due to contact with harsh chemicals.
  • Scratches and chips from sharp utensils or heavy cookware.
  • Wear and dullness of the surface cause a loss of luster.

This is where professional reglazing services like those from Bath-Brite come into play. If your granite starts looking aged, resurfacing and sealing can bring it back to life, making it look as good as new without the cost of full replacement.

Do’s for Granite Countertops

1. Seal Your Granite Regularly
Granite is porous, meaning liquids can seep in and cause stains. To protect the surface, apply a penetrating sealer every 12 to 18 months. A simple water test—sprinkle water and check if it beads up or soaks in—can tell you if resealing is needed.

2. Use Mild Cleaners
You should do daily cleaning with warm water, a soft cloth, and a pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals. Gentle care ensures your granite retains its luster for years.

3. Blot, Don’t Wipe, Spills
When spills occur, blot with a paper towel instead of wiping. This prevents spreading and reduces the risk of staining.

4. Use Cutting Boards and Trivets
While granite is hard, using cutting boards prevents scratches and keeps knives sharp. Hot pans should always be placed on trivets or mats—sudden heat changes may weaken the stone.

5. Schedule Professional Refinishing When Needed
If your granite has become dull, etched, or scratched, professional resurfacing and refinishing can restore its shine. At Bath-Brite, we use proven methods to remove imperfections and reseal granite, extending its life without costly replacement.

Don’ts for Granite Countertops

1. Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals
It is important to note that cleaners that contain bleach, vinegar, ammonia, and acidic cleaners can etch granite and dull its finish. Stick to stone-safe cleaners.

2. Don’t Sit or Stand on Counters
Granite is strong but not flexible. Sitting or standing on countertops puts pressure on weak spots, especially near seams, and can cause cracks.

3. Avoid Leaving Spills Overnight
Wine, coffee, oils, and citrus juices can seep in and leave permanent stains if left too long. Clean spills immediately.

4. Don’t Skip Resealing
Unsealed granite absorbs stains easily. Neglecting resealing leaves your investment unprotected.

5. Don’t Attempt DIY Repairs for Major Damage
Minor stains can be handled at home, but cracks, chips, and deep etching require professional refinishing. Bath-Brite’s reglazing and resurfacing team can repair damage effectively and affordably.

Common Granite Countertop Problems & Solutions

1. Stains That Won’t Budge
Oil stains can darken granite, while wine and coffee leave discoloration. With the help of professional cleaning and refinishing, you can help deep lift stains from these countertops. 

2. Etching from Acidic Foods
Lemon juice, vinegar, and soda can leave dull spots. Refinishing services smooth these areas and restore shine.

3. Chips or Cracks
Granite can chip if heavy pans are dropped. Small chips can sometimes be filled, but refinishing ensures a seamless repair.

4. Dull or Worn Finish
Daily use can dull granite over time. Bath-Brite offers resurfacing and sealing that restores the original polish.

Professional Care: Reglazing, Resurfacing & Refinishing

Granite countertops don’t typically need reglazing like tile or porcelain, but resurfacing and refinishing are essential when the stone loses its shine or suffers damage. Bath-Brite provides:

  • Granite Resurfacing: Restoring smoothness by removing scratches, etches, and dull areas.
  • Granite Refinishing: Polishing and resealing to bring back the glossy look.
  • Countertop Reglazing (for other surfaces): Perfect for bathrooms and kitchens with tile, porcelain, or laminate surfaces.

By combining these services, homeowners can avoid costly replacements and enjoy long-lasting surfaces.

Long-Term Maintenance Tips

  • Clean daily with soft cloths and stone-safe cleaners.
  • Reseal annually or as needed.
  • Use coasters, trivets, and cutting boards.
  • Call Bath-Brite for professional refinishing if damage occurs.
  • Avoid all-purpose cleaners not labeled safe for stone.

Conclusion

Granite countertops are a luxurious and practical choice, but they require consistent care and professional refinishing to stay beautiful. By following the do’s and don’ts, you can keep your counters looking pristine for decades. And when signs of dullness, staining, or damage appear, Bath-Brite’s reglazing, resurfacing, and refinishing services can restore your countertops to like-new condition—without the high cost of replacement.

FAQs

1: How often should granite countertops be resealed?
 Most granite should be resealed every 12–18 months, but heavy-use kitchens may require more frequent sealing.

2: Can granite be reglazed like tile?
 Granite doesn’t require reglazing, but resurfacing and refinishing restore shine and repair damage effectively.

3: What’s the difference between refinishing and resurfacing granite?
 Resurfacing removes imperfections like scratches or etching, while refinishing polishes and reseals for a glossy, protective finish.

4: Can I remove granite stains at home?
 Minor stains may be lifted with poultices, but deep stains often need professional refinishing services.

5: How do Bath-Brite’s services save money compared to replacement?
 Instead of replacing granite or tile, Bath-Brite’s reglazing, resurfacing, and refinishing make your surfaces look new at a fraction of the cost.