Taking care of granite countertops is straightforward and primarily involves daily wiping, immediate spill cleanup, and periodic resealing to protect the stone's natural porosity.
To help keep its lustrous looks, granite counters need to be sealed every six to 24 months with one of three types of sealants. A topical sealer doesn't penetrate the stone and can be removed and reapplied as many times as needed. Penetrating sealers don't leave a shine and require resealing every one or two years.
Yes, you can use Dawn dish soap on granite. Because it is a mild, pH-balanced detergent, it is an excellent and safe choice for everyday cleaning.
One of the biggest reasons people think granite is no longer popular is the rise of newer materials like quartz. As trends shift, some assume that older materials are no longer relevant. But granite isn't outdated—it's evolving.
Never use acidic or abrasive cleaners on granite countertops. Products like vinegar, lemon juice, bleach, ammonia, and standard glass cleaners (e.g., Windex) will break down the stone's protective sealant over time. Additionally, avoid abrasive scrubbers, steel wool, and chemical drain cleaners, as these can easily scratch and dull the surface.
No, you should avoid using Clorox wipes on granite. Disinfectant wipes often contain harsh chemicals like citric acid or bleach, which can strip away the protective sealant on your stone. Over time, this causes the granite to dull, etch, or become vulnerable to deep stains.
Those crystals are the foundation of granite's reflective quality. The most important minerals responsible for sparkle are quartz and mica. Quartz crystals are naturally glassy and reflective. Mica, especially muscovite and biotite, produces tiny reflective flakes that shimmer under light.
The enduring appeal of granite countertops continues to lead the way in home design as we move into 2026. Beloved for their strength, elegance, and individuality, these surfaces are as functional as they are beautiful.
The healthiest countertops prioritize non-toxic, non-porous, and zero-VOC materials. Top choices include natural stone (like granite and quartzite), stainless steel, and solid wood (butcher block). These do not off-gas harmful chemicals and naturally resist bacterial growth when properly maintained.
Granite is Heat Resistant
The primary concern with heat and granite is cracking. Homeowners don't need to worry about damaging their countertops with everyday use because granite is quite heat resistant.
Yes, you can use Murphy’s Oil Soap on granite for light or occasional cleaning, but it shouldn't be your go-to everyday cleaner.
Countertops in 2026 are shifting away from sterile, cool grays toward warm, organic, and dramatic looks. The biggest trends prioritize inviting neutrals (creams, beiges, and taupes), sweeping natural veins, and bold, earth-toned statement stones.
Yes, using Clorox wipes on quartz countertops can cause damage. While a single wipe-up in an emergency likely won't cause immediate harm, relying on them regularly can break down the polymer resin binder in the quartz, leading to dullness, a loss of shine, and discoloration over time.
Neglecting to reseal your Granite Countertops can lead to stains and etching. Liquids such as wine, coffee, or acidic substances may penetrate the stone, causing irreversible damage over time.
The best products for granite countertops are pH-balanced, non-acidic formulas that safely clean without stripping the stone's protective seal. Leading options include Granite Gold Daily Cleaner, Weiman Granite & Stone Daily Cleaner, and Method Daily Granite Spray.
Average Granite Counter Cost
The cost of a granite countertop will, of course, depend on the size of your surface area. However, the average granite countertop will cost approximately $50 to $200 per square foot. In addition to the size, the cost will also depend on how thick you want the slab to be.
Yes, it is generally safe to place a crockpot directly on a granite countertop because granite is highly heat-resistant. However, to prevent thermal shock, potential cracks, or damage to the countertop's protective sealant over long cooking periods, it is highly recommended to place a protective barrier underneath.
We have compiled a list of our top-selling and most popular kitchen countertops over the past year.
Restoring dull granite depends on the cause: build-up, etching, or a worn-out seal. First, thoroughly clean the surface with warm water and pH-neutral dish soap, or a dedicated Granite Cleaner. Dry with a microfiber cloth. If it is still dull, follow these steps.
Granite’s decline in popularity largely stems from shifting design trends. The heavily patterned, multi-colored granites popular in the early 2000s now look dated to modern homeowners. Furthermore, the rise of uniform, low-maintenance alternatives like quartz has pushed granite out of the design spotlight.
Yes, quartz typically lasts longer as a countertop because it is non-porous and engineered to resist staining, scratching, and chipping. However, it is an engineered material, meaning it requires different maintenance and care than natural granite.
Top 3 Materials For A Sanitary Countertop
Outdated granite colors are primarily defined by the heavily speckled, busy, and warm-toned patterns popularized in the 1990s and early 2000s. Specifically, these include:
In 2026, kitchen color trends are moving away from stark white and cold gray, shifting toward warm, nature-inspired, and earthy tones. The aesthetic of "warm minimalism" dominates, favoring softer hues like creamy white, taupe, mushroom, terracotta, muted olive green, and deep teal-blues.
Yes, you can use Dawn dish soap on granite. Because it is a mild, pH-balanced detergent, it is an excellent and safe choice for everyday cleaning.