If You Have Granite Countertops, Be Extra Careful With This Kitchen Ingredient

Granite countertops are prized for their durability and visual appeal. With proper care, they can last for up to 100 years or longer and become a cherished part of your kitchen for generations. Note, though — granite is a natural stone with high porosity. This aspect contributes to its strength and aesthetics, but it also makes it vulnerable to staining. The tiny holes on its surface absorb liquids, which can lead to permanent damage. Additionally, high temperatures increase granite porosity, which can further impact its susceptibility to stains.

A common culprit is cooking oil or any type of oil, for that matter. This food product can leak or splash out, leaving a mess behind. For example, you could accidentally spill oil on your granite countertops when making a salad. The stain will only get worse if you don't clean it right away. Baking soda and other pantry staples can remove oil stains from granite, but may not work every time. The safest option is to store your cooking oils in a different place, like a cupboard or wine rack. One solution is to seal your granite countertops once a year, but this step alone may not be enough to prevent damage. 

Storing cooking oil on your granite countertops spells double trouble. First, there's a risk of leaks, spills, or splashes, which can ruin the material. Second, the high temperatures generated during cooking can result in deep stains if you spill oil on the counter. With that in mind, use a wine rack to store cooking oils away from your granite tops or place it in a cool, dark place, such as the pantry.

Another option is to install wire baskets or racks on a wall to store oil bottles. Just make sure you place them away from direct sunlight to prevent oxidation. Sesame, safflower, and nut oils can be safely stored in the refrigerator, whereas coconut oil can be kept in the cupboard. If you normally use olive oil, store it in a pantry or cabinet. Use tiered shelves, drawer dividers, or baskets to organize your oil bottles. Alternatively, cover your granite counter with a silicone mat or protection film. For instance, this BPA-free silicone kitchen counter mat from Amazon comes in three sizes and five colors and can withstand high temperatures. Since it's quite large, you can place your cooking oils, vinegar bottles, and spices on it. The only downside is that it will hide the beauty of your granite countertops.