FOR COUNTER CLEANLINESS GRANITE IS THE WAY TO GO If bacterial contamination of the kitchen countertop is a concern, granite or stainless steel are good choices according to a recent study. This study was conducted by the Hospitality Institute of Technology and Management, a St. Paul, Minnesota - based organization that develops educational materials and research for the retail food industry. The study measured the bacteria-resistance capacity of six common countertop materials. Each surface was contaminated with E. coli (nearly 2 billion of the microorganisms), washed and rinsed with soap and water and then sanitized with a vinegar-and-water solution. The results are shown below: SURFACE MICROORGANISMS ELIMATED BY CLEANING Stainless Steel Granite Laminate Ceramic Tile Concrete Wood 85,113,804 79,432,823 498,884 293,765 32,810 2,080 A regular maintenance regimen will help your natural stone become more resistant to scratching and wear. Natural stone, especially polished stone, is sensitive to harsh chemicals. Do not use vinegar or any cleaners containing acids or strong alkaline agents. Millennium Marble & Granite recommends wiping or mopping stone surfaces with warm water or a pH balanced neutral cleaner, followed by dry-wiping. If you spill acidic juices or alcohol on the stone, you should blot dry immediately. Acid-based foods, such as citrus or tomatoes, can etch into the polish of more delicate stones, like marble and onyx. Do not place hot items, such as pots and pans, on any stone other than granite. As a safety precaution, use coasters on countertops. To prevent alkaline and soap-scum buildup, use squeegees in shower areas. Other large surfaces, such as flooring, are often best cared for by a licensed maintenance company to protect the natural stone. A quality impregnating sealer penetrates stone, allows the stone to breathe and permits more of the stone's natural beauty to shine through. Unsealed stone is more susceptible to absorbing moisture, dirt and cleaning chemicals.