The Complete Guide to Caring for Granite & Countertops
Yadira Bove • February 27, 2026
Investing in new countertops is one of the most exciting parts of a kitchen or bathroom reno vation. At Celtic Stone Granite, we know how important it is to keep your surfaces looking just as beautiful years from now as they did on installation day.
The good news? With a few simple habits, your granite or quartz countertops can stay durable, clean, and timeless for decades.
Here’s your complete care guide.
Everyday Cleaning Made Simple
Your daily routine doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, the simplest approach is the best one.
For everyday cleaning
| Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and mild dish soap. Wipe the surface dry to avoid streaks or residue.
Clean up spills quickly—especially acidic foods like wine, coffee, lemon juice, and vinegar.
Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners. These can dull the finish and shorten the lifespan of your countertops.
A quick wipe each day keeps buildup from forming and preserves the natural beauty of the stone.
How to Prevent Scratches & Chips
Granite and quartz are incredibly durable, but they’re not indestructible.
A few preventative habits go a long way.
Use cutting boards
| Even though stone is scratch-resistant, cutting directly on the surface can dull knives and potentially damage the finish over time.
Be mindful of heavy impacts
| Edges and corners are the most vulnerable parts of any countertop. Avoid dropping heavy pots, appliances, or tools onto these areas. Think of your countertops as you would hardwood floors—strong, but deserving of care.
Granite Care: Sealing & Protection
Granite is a natural stone, which means it’s slightly porous. To keep it protected, sealing is essential.
How often should granite be sealed | Most granite countertops should be sealed every 1–2 years, depending on usage and the type of stone.
How to test if resealing is needed
| Try this quick water test:
Sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface, wait 10–15 minutes
if the area darkens, it’s time to reseal.
Use a granite-safe sealer and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This simple step helps prevent staining and keeps your countertops looking new.
At Celtic Stone we offer Sealing service - give us a call for more information and pricing.
Quartz Care: Low Maintenance & Durable
Quartz countertops are engineered to be non-porous, which makes them extremely low maintenance.
Unlike granite:
-Quartz does not need sealing
-It resists stains and bacteria naturally
However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Avoid strong solvents such as:
-Paint removers
-Nail polish remover
-Oven cleaners
These chemicals can damage the resin that binds quartz surfaces.
Heat protection matters
Quartz is heat-resistant but not heat-proof. Always use trivets or hot pads and avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on the surface.
Sunlight exposure
Prolonged direct sunlight may cause discoloration over time, especially near large windows or outdoor kitchens.
Removing Stubborn Stains
Most spills wipe away easily, but occasionally you may need a little extra help.
For granite:
Use a paste of baking soda and water and gently clean the area.
For quartz:
Use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner or a gentle glass cleaner.
Avoid steel wool, scouring pads, or anything abrasive that could scratch the finish.
Protecting Your Investment for Years to Come
With proper care, granite and quartz countertops can last a lifetime.
A simple routine of gentle cleaning, quick spill response, and preventative habits is all it takes to preserve their beauty.
If you ever have questions about maintenance, sealing, or care products, we’re always happy to help.
Celtic Stone Granite
Allentown Office: 610-435-ROCK
Wilkes-Barre Office: 570-550-9810
Your countertops are built to last — and with the right care, they truly will.
