granite

Cleaning and Caring for Granite Countertops

Granite countertops add beauty, functionality, and value to a home. But because granite is a natural product, it requires special care to protect it and keep it looking its best.

To be sure granite countertops stay in nice condition after a hard day's work, take a few minutes every evening to clear them of clutter and gently wipe them down. Usually a soft cloth or sponge with hot water will be enough, but for a little extra cleaning power, a specially formulated stone cleaner can be used. Look for eco-friendly or "green" cleaners, as these will be gentle yet still effective.

To clean a splatter, first remove the dried-on food with a razor blade. Then wet the surface with your usual granite cleaner, or this DIY, inexpensive, safe one: equal parts water and alcohol in a spray bottle. Gently scrape along the surface to remove any remaining dirt. Use a soft sponge to wipe, then buff dry to a shine with a soft cloth.

Do not clean granite with acidic ingredients such vinegar, lemon juice, or lime juice, as they can be abrasive, and avoid obviously abrasive products such as scrubs and steel wool pads. Also avoid cleaning products that contain bleach, degreasing substances, or ammonia. Dish soap should be used sparingly, because it eventually will dull the countertop appearance.

Avoid dropping hard items on granite countertops, as the countertop may nick or chip. And while you can place a hot pot or pan on granite, try to avoid doing so, as it may leave a mark.

Granite countertops should be sealed biannually for more protection. The Marble Institute of America is a good source for all things stone.

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Sippin on the Rocks, Granite Cubes for Drinks

by Deidre Woollard (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Spirits

Giving a whole new meaning to the term "on the rocks" is the product from a company called Sippin on the Rocks. They sell highly polished cubes made from imported granite directly from quarries in Scotland. The cubes are meant to be placed in a container in the freezer for about one or two hours then placed (definitely not tossed) into a glass and covered with whisky. The cubes are said to enhance the aroma and flavor of the liquor and cool the liquor without diluting it. The cubes come in a gift set, a walnut wood box with two granite cubes and two glasses for $75.

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Tags: alcohol, granite, liquor, rocks, whiskey, whisky

Granite and Stone Accessories Have Gone a Bit Too Far

by Laura Malesich (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Decor

To me, granite counter tops are the creme de la creme of kitchen spaces but adding matching knobs is a little much. At first glance, the knobs not yet attached to the cabinetry look like pretty chess pieces but fashioned to the woodwork they make for a busy and cluttered look. The only one I think that may bring an element of sophistication to a kitchen or bathroom are the dark slate colored knobs. But I still feel like less is more.

And who would have thought to chisel granite or stone to fit a light switch? Most granite has a mottled, colorful look and in my opinion only the purist color palette would work on a wall (unless your wall is granite too which would make for a blended look). Then again I don't wear animal print or plaid so maybe my tastes lean towards monochromatic schemes. In any case, I would leave the granite and stone to counter tops and quarries and keep it off the cabinets and walls.

Gallery: Granite and Stone Accessories