How to Clean Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are a beautiful addition to any home. They add tremendous value and elegance, and they can last a lifetime when professionally installed. Even though granite is a tough, natural stone, it still needs regular cleaning to prevent staining and maintain its stunning appearance. Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to clean granite countertops.
Cleaning Granite Countertops
There are a few things you need to know to properly clean granite countertops. First, you should always use natural cleaning products or those specifically designed for granite. This will help prevent any major damage to the stone. Second, you should never use vinegar, harsh chemicals, or abrasive pads to clean granite. These can harm the custom finish and make the countertop more susceptible to stains in the future.
Daily Granite Cleaning
For daily cleaning, all you need is warm water and a soft cloth. Gently wipe down the countertop, taking care not to leave behind any puddles. If there are any stubborn stains, you can try using a little bit of dish soap or Simple Green on the area.
Apply the cleaning product with a soft sponge or cloth, and gently scrub in a circular motion. Rinse the countertop with clean water and dry it with a soft, clean cloth. We recommend wiping down your granite countertops with warm water daily to help prevent grime from collecting over time.
Weekly Granite Cleaning
In addition to your daily routine, you should also give your granite countertops a deeper clean once per week. For this, you will need:
- A large spray bottle,
- Warm water,
- Simple Green, and
- Soft cloths or new sponges.
We suggest using Simple Green on granite countertops for a few reasons. This powerful degreaser safely removes grease, grime, and stains from most countertop materials. It’s also easy to find at your local hardware or home goods store. Plus, its concentrated, non-toxic formula is non-acidic with a pH of about 9. This is important because acidic compounds like vinegar can quickly etch and damage the surface sealant on granite countertops.
For weekly cleanings, begin by mixing up a simple cleaning solution. Combine 1 oz. of Simple Green with 3-4 cups of water in a clean spray bottle. Wipe down your granite with warm water and a clean cloth or sponge, then spray the Simple Green solution onto the countertop and let it sit for a few minutes. Wipe away the solution with a damp sponge or cloth, and then dry the area with a soft towel.
For tougher stains, you may need to use a stronger solution and some elbow grease. Gently scrub the stain with warm water and a non-abrasive nylon brush before proceeding with your routine. Try using full-strength Simple Green or a 1:1 mixture with water.
Special Considerations
Like quartz, granite is durable and resistant to most stains. However, there are a few things you should avoid letting sit on your countertop for too long, including:
- Oil,
- Coffee,
- Vinegar,
- Makeup,
- Red wine,
- Acidic foods, such as tomatoes and lemons, and
- Colored drinks, such as Kool-Aid and fruit punch.
If anything oily or tacky happens to spill on your countertop, then don’t delay! The longer it sits on granite, the tougher it will be to remove. Use warm water and one of the methods listed above as soon as possible for the best results.
Ask Us How to Clean Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are stunning and practical, but they do require special care when cleaning. Try to avoid abrasive cleaning pads and harsh chemicals in favor of something non-acidic like Simple Green. If you use a cleaning solution, always make sure it’s safe for granite, and test it on a small area before applying it more broadly.
With proper care and regular cleaning, your granite countertops will shine like new for many years to come. If you have any further questions or concerns about how to clean granite countertops, then we welcome you to stop by our stop or contact us today. Our team will gladly teach you the tips and tricks needed to maintain your granite with confidence.
