One of the most common complaints with granite countertops is their dullness. This can be caused by a buildup of soap scum, hard water deposits, or simply by wear and tear. To restore the shine to your granite countertops, you need to remove any buildup and polish the surface.

There are a variety of products available specifically designed for polishing granite, or you can make your own using a mixture of baking soda and water.

Another common issue with granite countertops is that they can become stained or discoloured. While granite is generally stain-resistant, it is not completely impervious to stains. If you notice a stain on your granite countertop, it’s important to act quickly to remove it before it becomes permanent. Various products are available for removing stains from granite, or you can make your own using a mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide.

Our blog post on cleaning granite stains may also help.

How to Restore Granite Countertops

Before you begin the restoration process, it’s important to understand the nature of granite countertops. Granite is a porous stone that can absorb liquids if not properly sealed. This can lead to stains and discolouration. Additionally, UV light can affect granite, which can cause it to fade over time.

Cleaning and sealing are important to prevent your granite countertops from becoming stained or faded. Use a soft cloth and mild soap to clean your countertops. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that can scratch the surface. You should also avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on the surface, which can cause damage.

If your granite countertops have become dull or faded due to exposure to UV light, you can restore their shine by polishing them with a granite polish. There are two types of granite polish available: wet and dry. Wet polish is applied with water, while dry polish is applied without water. Both types of polish can be effective, but dry polish is more versatile and cost-effective.

The Restoration Process

When restoring granite countertops, there are two main options: DIY restoration or professional granite restoration. Both have pros and cons, and the best choice for you will depend on your budget, skills, and the extent of the damage to your countertop.

DIY Restoration

DIY is a good option if you’re looking to restore your granite countertop on a budget or only have a small piece of granite to restore. Granite restoration kits that can help you remove stains, scratches, and dullness from your countertop are available to buy. These kits typically include a poultice, a paste you mix and apply to the stain.

Different types of stains will require different ingredients for the poultice or methods for removal. Some kits may also include a sealer to protect your countertop from future damage.

In addition to using a restoration kit, you can try other DIY methods to restore your granite countertop. For example, you can use a mixture of warm water and dish soap to clean your countertop and apply a beeswax polish to restore its shine. Be careful with too much beeswax; it can build up on your countertop over time and may require professional granite cleaning to remove.

Here are some other DIY tips:

1. Use a granite-safe cleaner – Look for a cleaner specifically made for granite and natural stone. It will be pH-balanced and not damage the stone.
2. Avoid abrasive pads or cleaners – You might be tempted to reach for the scourer, but don’t. You can scratch your granite.
3. Use a poultice for stubborn stains – Make a paste with the cleaner and baking soda and apply/leave on the stain to draw it out.
4. Polish with a natural stone polish – Buff the entire surface with a polishing compound made for granite. This will remove marks and add shine.
5. Apply a sealing protector – Use a natural stone sealer to protect the granite from future staining and make cleaning easier. Reapply as necessary.

How to Make a Poultice for Granite

Here are the steps to make a baking soda and hydrogen peroxide poultice for granite countertops:

Mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with just enough 3% hydrogen peroxide to form a spreadable paste consistency. You want it thick enough to stay on the stain but still pliable.

This poultice removes light stains like coffee, wine, or watermarks from granite. The baking soda is abrasive to lift the stain, while the hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleach.

Apply the poultice directly over the stain and cover with plastic wrap. Leave it on for at least 4 hours or overnight for more stubborn marks.

Remove and check if the stain is lifted. You may need to reapply the poultice and let it dwell longer. Always test the poultice on a small, inconspicuous area first to check for discolouration.

While this poultice is effective and safe for most granite, it can potentially cause damage to certain granite with high acid sensitivity or polished finishes. If you are unsure, contact our friendly staff for advice.

Granite Friendly Cleaners and Chemicals to Avoid