How To Clean Granite Mortar And Pestle
Granite mortar and pestles are an essential kitchen tool for any home chef looking to add freshly ground spices to their recipes. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but their granite material is incredibly durable and long lasting.
However, with anything that you use in your kitchen, it’s important to keep it clean and well maintained. Cleaning your granite mortar and pestle doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In this guide, we’ll provide you with easy instructions to keep your mortar and pestle looking and performing like new.
Why cleaning your granite mortar and pestle is important
We often overlook the importance of cleaning and maintaining our kitchen tools and gadgets. However, this can lead to health and safety hazards in your kitchen. A dirty granite mortar and pestle can harbor bacteria and lead to food-borne illnesses. The buildup of bacteria can also lead to discoloration of your mortar and pestle, as well as a reduction in the lifespan of your granite mortar and pestle.
Cleaning your granite mortar and pestle will help to keep your kitchen clean, safe, and smelling fresh. Granite is a porous material, which means it can be easily stained and discolored. Food particles and liquids can seep into the pores of your mortar and pestle, leading to bacteria and stains. This is why it’s important to clean your granite mortar and pestle after each use. It’s also important to dry your mortar and pestle after each use. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria and stains.
How to clean your granite mortar and pestle
Dish soap or a cleaning solution designed for cleaning and sanitizing kitchen tools – These will help remove stains and food particles from your mortar and pestle.
An old sponge or cleaning cloth – Using a sponge or cleaning cloth will help you to clean your granite mortar and pestle while minimizing the risk of scratching the surface.
A small wooden or plastic bowl – This will help you store your granite mortar and pestle when not in use, as well as provide an area to soak your mortar and pestle if necessary.
Water – Water should be used to soak and clean your mortar and pestle. Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach, as this can damage the surface of your mortar and pestle.
A towel – A towel can be used to dry your mortar and pestle after you’ve cleaned and sanitized it.
First, you’ll want to fill your bowl with warm water. You can add a few drops of your preferred cleaning solution to the water to help break down any food particles that might be stuck to your mortar and pestle.
Place your mortar and pestle in the bowl and allow it to soak for a few minutes.
While your mortar and pestle are soaking, you can use a sponge or cleaning cloth to clean other parts of your kitchen.
Once your mortar and pestle have soaked for a few minutes, use the sponge or cleaning cloth to scrub any visible stains or food particles off of the surface. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can lead to scratching the surface of your mortar and pestle.
Once you’ve completely cleaned your mortar and pestle, use the sponge or cleaning cloth to wipe it dry.
Common mistakes to avoid when cleaning your granite mortar and pestle
Avoid using too much force when scrubbing your mortar and pestle. Scrubbing too hard can lead to scratches on the surface of the mortar and pestle, which will lead to discoloration and reduced lifespan.
Avoid using abrasive sponge pads or cleaning pads to clean your mortar and pestle. These can also lead to scratches on the surface of your mortar and pestle.
Avoid cleaning your mortar and pestle while it’s still wet. This can lead to stains and discoloration.
Avoid leaving your mortar and pestle wet and sitting in a pool of water. This can lead to stains and discoloration.
Avoid leaving your granite mortar and pestle in the sink. This can lead to bacteria and stains.
Tips for maintaining your granite mortar and pestle
Always wash your granite mortar and pestle by hand. This will help to reduce the risk of stains and discoloration.
After washing and drying your granite mortar and pestle, place it in a small bowl to store it. This will keep your kitchen counter clean and organized.
Avoid storing your granite mortar and pestle in the dishwasher. This can lead to discoloration and reduced lifespan.
Avoid leaving your granite mortar and pestle in direct sunlight. This can also lead to discoloration and reduced lifespan.
How to tell when it’s time to replace your granite mortar and pestle
While some of the signs that your mortar and pestle need replacing are visible, others may be less apparent. Here are some signs that it may be time to replace your mortar and pestle:
Food particles and stains have built up on the surface of your mortar and pestle.
The surface of your mortar and pestle is starting to show signs of wear and tear.
Your mortar and pestle has become discolored. These are all signs that your mortar and pestle is worn out and should be replaced. Replacing your mortar and pestle every few years will help to keep your kitchen clean and safe.
Conclusion
Granite mortar and pestles are a great addition to any kitchen. While they look beautiful, they’re also incredibly durable and long lasting. It’s important to clean and maintain your granite mortar and pestle to keep your kitchen clean and safe.
Cleaning your granite mortar and pestle doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these easy cleaning instructions, you’ll be able to keep your mortar and pestle looking and performing like new.
