If you like the look of natural stone but prefer something a little softer and more forgiving than a high-gloss shine, leathered granite is worth a serious look. We help DFW homeowners choose granite every day, and the leathered finish keeps growing in popularity because it blends style with real-life practicality.
Below is a clear breakdown of what leathered granite countertops are, why homeowners choose them, what tradeoffs to know about, and how to keep the finish looking great for the long haul.
What is a leathered granite finish?
A leathered finish starts with the stone being honed, then it is brushed with abrasive pads to create a subtle texture. The result is a surface that is:
- Smooth enough for daily use
- Slightly textured to the touch
- Lower glare than polished stone
- Often richer in color compared to a fully honed finish
Leathered granite is still granite. The difference is how the surface is finished, not the core durability of the stone itself.
Why homeowners choose leathered granite in busy kitchens
A leathered finish is popular for the same reasons many people prefer matte paint over glossy paint. It has character, hides small smudges better, and looks great under a range of lighting.
In many homes, leathered granite is chosen because it:
- Reduces the look of fingerprints compared to glossy finishes
- Softens reflections from windows and overhead lighting
- Adds texture and warmth to modern and rustic designs
- Pairs well with both light and dark cabinetry
If you are comparing slabs in person, we can help you view leathered and polished options side by side and talk through how the finish will look in your layout during our granite installation process.
Leathered vs. honed vs. polished granite
These three finishes can look very different, even on the same slab.
Polished granite
- Most reflective
- Highest color pop in many stones
- Easiest daily wipe-down
- Shows smudges and reflections more
Honed granite
- Matte look
- Smooth feel, very low sheen
- Can show oil darkening more easily in some stones
Leathered granite
- Low sheen with a textured feel
- Often deepens the color, especially on darker stones
- Hides everyday smudges well, but has texture that needs the right cleaning approach
Leathered granite often lands in the sweet spot for homeowners who want natural stone without a high-gloss look.
Pros and cons of leathered granite countertops
Leathered granite is a great choice for many kitchens, but it is not perfect for every household. Here is the practical view.
Pros
- More forgiving appearance for fingerprints and water spots
- Adds depth and texture to the stone’s movement
- Lower glare in bright kitchens
- Works well in modern, transitional, and rustic designs
Cons
- Texture can collect crumbs if you only do a quick wipe with a dry towel
- Some stones look slightly darker once leathered
- Strong cleaners or abrasive pads can dull the finish over time
- Not every granite slab is offered in a leathered finish, depending on the stone and supplier
If your household cooks often, the maintenance is still simple. You just want the right habits.
How to clean leathered granite without dulling the finish
Leathered granite does not require complicated maintenance, but the texture changes how you clean it.
For daily cleaning:
- Use warm water and a mild dish soap on a soft microfiber cloth
- Follow with a clean damp wipe to remove soap residue
- Dry with a microfiber towel to reduce water spots
For weekly cleaning:
- Use a stone-safe cleaner and a soft brush or microfiber cloth to reach the subtle texture
- Focus on the area around the cooktop and sink, where oils and splashes build up
For more general stone care routines, our granite countertop care tips guide is a solid reference for everyday cleaning and what products to avoid.
Sealing, stains, and what to do if a spot appears
Many leathered granites are sealed after installation, and sealing schedules vary based on the stone’s density and how the kitchen is used. The easiest way to know if it is time to reseal is the water-drop test:
- Place a few drops of water on the counter
- If the stone darkens quickly, it may be time to reseal
If a stain does happen, the fix depends on what caused it. Cooking oils, coffee, wine, and rust each behave differently on stone. Our guide on how to remove stains from granite countertops walks through safe, homeowner-friendly options before you try anything harsh.
Design tips: edges, sinks, and backsplash pairings
Because leathered granite has texture, the edge profile and sink style can change the overall feel of the install.
A few popular pairings:
- Eased or slightly rounded edges for a clean look and comfortable seating areas
- Undermount sinks for simple wipe-in cleanup
- Full-height stone or tile backsplashes to complement the stone’s movement
If you are deciding on the edge, our post on tips for choosing a granite countertop edge profile explains which edges fit different kitchen styles and how they affect daily use.
When leathered granite is a great fit
Leathered granite is a strong choice if you want:
- Natural stone with a softer, lower-glare appearance
- A finish that hides everyday smudges better than glossy stone
- A kitchen that feels warm and textured, not overly shiny
If you want the easiest wipe-down possible with no texture at all, polished granite or quartz may be a better match. If you want matte and ultra minimal, honed granite can be the right look.
Ready to compare finishes in person?
If you are upgrading countertops in the DFW area, we can help you compare leathered granite to honed and polished options and plan a layout that fits your kitchen. Reach out through our contact page to schedule a visit and talk through slabs, finishes, and installation details.
