Granite is one of the most durable and easy-to-care for countertop materials in the world. It’s been beloved by families of all types for decades due to its ability to stand up to heat, blades, and all manner of potential household dangers.
But even the most resilient materials sometimes need a refresh. If your granite counters are starting to lose their luster, it’s possible that they may need to be resealed, cleaned, or polished.
Resealing is an annual maintenance routine best left for experts. And you can find more information about cleaning your granite counters in our article, “How We Clean Our Natural Stone Countertops.”
But if your counters are both adequately sealed and freshly cleaned… Polishing can be a great way to improve their appearance and restore their shine!
How to Polish Granite Countertops
The trick to polishing your granite counters is, of course, to do so without harming your sealant or the stone beneath. Fortunately, polishing your counters gently is remarkably easy to do.
OPTION A: Go the easy route with granite polish.
Want to make this as simple and fast as possible? Simply visit your local supply store and purchase a granite polish! While we don’t recommend using all-purpose cleaners on your granite, a granite-specific polish will help you shine up your counters safely and effectively.
OPTION B: Use supplies you already have at home to polish your counters
No time to run to the store for granite polish? You can spruce up your counters with common household supplies too!
BAKING SODA
Baking soda is a fabulous gentle polish when diluted properly. Here’s how it works.
- Mix 3 parts baking soda to 1 part warm water.
- Combine into a smooth paste.
- Apply a thin layer to your granite counters.
- Gently buff with a clean cloth.
- Wipe away any residue with a damp cloth, dry, and enjoy your beautiful counters!
COOKING OIL
While oil can stain granite counters, it can make an excellent polish in small, controlled quantities. For this method, use a small amount of any standard cooking oil—eg, canola, olive, or coconut.
- Apply a very small amount of oil to a clean, soft cloth.
- Buff in circular motions.
- Don’t forget the edges!
Dealing with more serious scuffs, scratches, or etching?
Unfortunately, deeper scars in your granite are rarely able to be polished out at home. If the mark is relatively shallow, you may be able to use a polishing powder to achieve your desired results.
However, it’s important not to be too rough with your counters. When in doubt, call an expert for guidance & repairs!
Ready to Repair or Replace Your Granite Counters?
For homeowners in WV, VA, MD, PA, or the Washington DC area, we’re happy to help! Contact us HERE for more information on how we can help revive your granite countertops.