Best Way to Clean Granite Countertops

Granite kitchen countertops have remained popular since the early 2000s. This natural stone is beautiful, resists bacteria and staining, and emits a lustrous shine. Yet, it is important to note that granite requires a specific cleaning routine to ensure the sealant doesn’t wear off.

There are rules about how to clean granite countertops. In particular, don’t use harsh chemicals, acidic cleaners, or abrasive scrubbing tools. Keep your natural stone counters looking great for years with this guide to cleaning granite countertops.

Cleaning Supplies You'll Need for Your Granite Surfaces

To clean your granite countertops effectively and maintain their natural beauty, it's important to use the right tools and materials. Gather the following essentials to ensure a thorough and safe cleaning process:

• Soft Cotton Cloth or Clean Rag Mops: Essential for wiping down surfaces without causing scratches.
• Spray Bottle: For mixing and applying your cleaning solution.
• Soft Cloth: Used for drying and polishing to avoid water spots.
• Rubbing Alcohol: A key ingredient for making a homemade cleaner when mixed with water, great for cutting through grease.
• Mild Liquid Dishwashing Detergent: A gentle option to remove daily dirt and grime without damaging the stone.
• Commercial Stone Cleaner (optional): For deeper cleaning and maintaining the shine of your granite.
• Baking Soda: Perfect for creating a paste to tackle stubborn stains.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: Helps with disinfecting and removing tough stains.
• Plastic Wrap: Ideal for applying over baking soda paste to help remove stains overnight.

How to Clean Granite Countertops

To keep your granite countertops looking pristine and well-maintained, follow these simple cleaning steps!

1. Gather Appropriate Supplies:

Before you begin, gather the necessary cleaning tools and materials: a soft cotton cloth or rag, a spray bottle, mild liquid dish soap, rubbing alcohol, and a pH-neutral granite cleaner.

2. Clean Off Counters:

Start by clearing the countertops of all items, including dishes, appliances, and debris. Wipe down the surface with a soft cloth or sponge dampened with warm water to remove crumbs, dust, and spills.

3. Scrub Granite Surfaces:

For stubborn dirt or grime, apply a mild dish soap or pH-neutral granite cleaner to a damp cloth and gently scrub the surface. Avoid using abrasive pads that could scratch the granite.

4. Disinfect:

To disinfect your countertops, mix a 50/50 solution of rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the surface and wipe with a soft cloth to ensure the granite is sanitized without damaging its finish.

5. Shine Granite Surface:

After cleaning, use a dry, soft cloth to buff the countertop and restore its natural shine. This step helps remove any water spots and leaves your granite surfaces gleaming.

How to Care for Granite Countertops

1. Granite Sealant: Granite surfaces often come with a protective sealant that helps prevent stains and moisture absorption. Over time, the sealant can wear off, so it's important to reseal the countertops every few years. To test if your granite needs resealing, apply a few drops of distilled water to the surface. If the water is absorbed, it’s time for resealing.

2. Heat Protection: While granite is heat-resistant, placing hot pots and pans directly on the surface can weaken the sealant and cause thermal shock. Always use trivets or hot pads to protect your countertops from extreme temperature changes.

3. Avoid Sharp Objects: To prevent scratching, always use a cutting board instead of directly cutting on the granite. Sharp knives and utensils can easily damage the surface over time.

4. Regular Dusting of Granite Surfaces: Dust your granite countertops regularly using a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove debris. This prevents the accumulation of particles that can scratch the surface.

5. Granite Stain Prevention: Clean up spills immediately, especially those from acidic substances like citrus, wine, and vinegar. These can cause etching or stains if left on the surface for too long. Keep coasters and trivets in place to protect your granite from potential damage.

How to Remove Stains from Granite

Granite is a porous stone, which means that some spills can seep through and stain your countertops. Follow these tips to remove stains from your granite countertops.

• Make a paste of baking soda and water.
• With a soft sponge, apply the baking soda paste on the stain and work it into the stone. With a soft cloth, scrub the counter gently and rinse thoroughly. Repeat as needed.
• If the stain persists, put a layer of paste on the stain and let it sit overnight.
• To finish, wipe the granite with a soft cloth to show off your stain-free surface.

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