5 Easy Ways for Cleaning Granite Countertops (2024)

January 24, 2012

Keeping your granite countertops clean is crucial to protecting your stone investment. Although granite is the most durable stone surface in the industry, it can still be vulnerable to scratches or stains if it is not properly maintained and cared for. To help you keep your granite countertops looking new for years to come, here are five easy tips for cleaning granite countertops straight from the stone experts here atMarble and Granite.

  1. Dust countertops frequently to prevent particles from scratching granite surfaces.

  2. Be cautious with foods and drinks that contain acids as well as toiletries such as perfume, toothpaste and mouthwash as these can cause the granite sealer to be compromised.

  3. Clean countertops every day with a neutral pH-balanced cleaner, specifically formulated for granite, to remove residues from everyday cooking, eating and use.

  4. Blot up spills immediately with a dry, white cloth, turning the cloth frequently; then, spray the area with stone cleaner and wipe away with another clean cloth.

  5. To remove oil stains and other deep stains, use an oil stain remover or poultice, specifically formulated for granite, and follow product directions carefully.

Marble and Granite offers the complete line ofStoneTechproducts for protecting and cleaning granite countertops including the Revitalizer Cleaner and Protector which is perfect for everyday cleaning. Download our Care and Maintenance guide.

We value your expertise, please share your cleaning granite countertops experience.

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Contact Marble and Granite at 877-39-STONE for more information or come by one of our showrooms in Westwood, Massachusetts or Milford, Connecticut for products and professionaladvice.

5 Easy Ways for Cleaning Granite Countertops (1)Photo byJennifer Brouwer (Jennifer Brouwer Design) viaHouzz

5 Easy Ways for Cleaning Granite Countertops (2024)

FAQs

5 Easy Ways for Cleaning Granite Countertops? ›

Fancy cleaners aren't necessary for cleaning granite counters on a daily basis. You really only need three things: Warm water, mild dishwashing liquid and a microfiber cloth. Tip: Make sure your dishwashing liquid doesn't contain citrus extracts, as they're too acidic for granite countertops.

What is the best thing to clean granite countertops with? ›

Fancy cleaners aren't necessary for cleaning granite counters on a daily basis. You really only need three things: Warm water, mild dishwashing liquid and a microfiber cloth. Tip: Make sure your dishwashing liquid doesn't contain citrus extracts, as they're too acidic for granite countertops.

What is the easiest way to clean granite? ›

A well-sealed granite counter is the best barrier to bacteria, with hot water and dish soap being used daily. If you need something stronger, use a bottle of 70% isopropyl alcohol. Spray on the worktop, leave for up to five minutes and rinse with warm water before drying with a clean microfibre cloth.

Is Dawn dish soap safe for granite? ›

Yes, Dawn dish soap is safe to use to clean granite countertops.

Is it OK to use Clorox wipes on granite countertops? ›

The reason you should avoid Clorox wipes on granite countertops is that they contain large amounts of citric acid. As citric acid is very strong, these ingredients can break down the sealant that is placed on the granite kitchen worktops which is there to protect it.

What cleaners cannot be used on granite? ›

Windex; acidic cleaners, like vinegar, lemon, lime; or anything with ammonia or bleach should be avoided. Frequent use of these chemicals will dull and weaken the sealant over time. Basically, the harsher the cleaner, the quicker it will break down the sealant.

Is baking soda safe to clean granite? ›

A simple and safe poultice can be made by mixing 1/4 cup of baking soda with just enough water to create a paste with the consistency of sour cream. The poultice should be spread over the entire stained area in 1/4" layer extending no more than 1/2" past the stain and then covered with plastic wrap.

Is it OK to use Windex on granite? ›

Windex contains ingredients that can permanently damage the granite. While the most common damage done by Windex is dulling the shine of the countertops, it can also cause pitting. Windex can strip the sealer off of your granite countertops, leaving the granite susceptible to staining and other damage.

How to brighten granite? ›

My recipe for a granite countertop is: spray bottle, 1 cup of alcohol, 1 Tbsp. of liquid dish detergent, 2 cups of water and (optional... 15 drops of your choice essential oil). Shake it up, spray it on your countertops and wipe with a paper towel or soft cloth.

What makes granite sparkle? ›

Granite is a composite of magma and different kinds of minerals such as quartz, feldspar, amphiboles, and mica. The mineral mica is found in a lot of granite, and it is one of the things that gives granite a shimmery shine in certain places.

Why is my granite not shiny anymore? ›

Over time, various factors like improper cleaning, hard water deposits, and lack of regolar polishing can contribute to the doll appearance of granite countertops.

How to bring granite back to life? ›

After scraping away the residue and cleaning the stone with water, you can use a polishing powder to restore the shine. These polishing products are safe for most stone.

How to keep granite countertops clean and shiny? ›

To put a shine on your granite, pour a little cooking oil on a soft cleaning cloth and wipe it across the countertop. Buff it gently. This makes the counter a little bit stain-resistant and gives it a glossy shine. Even if you know how to clean countertops correctly, your granite will need to be resealed periodically.

How do I get my granite countertops shiny? ›

A great way to keep your granite looking shiny and new is to keep up on cleaning. While wiping the surface with mild dish soap, warm water and a paper towel can be effective for a quick cleanup, you will need to use a granite cleaner such as this one to get a deeper, more effective clean.

Is there a special cleaner for granite countertops? ›

The best way to clean granite counters is to choose a countertop cleaner formulated for granite. Or you can make your own cleaner from mild dish soap.

Is it OK to clean granite countertops with vinegar? ›

Vinegar is made up of acids that can severely harm your granite. Even if it is diluted, vinegar may still leave acids on your granite countertops. This can cause your natural stone countertops to etch. You can tell that your granite countertops have begun to etch by seeing a small ring or some sign of a watermark.

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