TL;DR:
For daily cleaning, wipe your granite countertops with a soft microfiber cloth using a simple solution of warm water and a few drops of pH-neutral dish soap. After wiping, rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe the surface again to remove any soap residue. Finally, dry the countertop thoroughly with a separate, clean microfiber cloth to prevent water spots and streaks. Never use acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon juice, or harsh chemicals like bleach and ammonia, as they can damage the granite’s sealant and dull the stone.
Granite countertops are a centerpiece in many kitchens, prized for their durability and unique, natural beauty. Each slab tells a geological story, adding a touch of elegance that can last a lifetime. Because granite is a natural stone quarried from the earth, it possesses a porous structure. This characteristic is key to understanding its care requirements. While incredibly hard and resistant to scratches, its pores can absorb liquids if not properly sealed, leading to potential staining and discoloration.
Proper maintenance is not about intense labor; it’s about using the right techniques and materials consistently. Many common household cleaners are too harsh for natural stone and can strip the protective sealant, leaving your beautiful investment vulnerable to damage. Learning how to clean granite countertops correctly involves understanding what to use and, just as importantly, what to avoid. By following a few simple guidelines, you can easily preserve the brilliant finish and integrity of your stone surfaces for decades, ensuring they remain a stunning feature of your home.
The Essential Daily Cleaning Routine for Granite
Keeping your granite looking its best doesn’t require a lot of effort, just consistency. A simple daily wipe-down is the most effective way to prevent buildup and maintain the stone’s natural luster. This routine removes crumbs, dust, and minor spills before they have a chance to become bigger problems.
Step-by-Step Guide to Everyday Wiping
The goal of daily cleaning is to gently remove surface debris without harming the sealant. A mild, pH-neutral approach is always the best choice.
- Clear the Surface: Begin by removing any crumbs, food particles, or loose debris from the countertop. You can use a soft, dry cloth or a soft-bristled brush to sweep them into your hand or a dustpan. Avoid dragging heavy or sharp objects across the surface.
- Prepare Your Cleaning Solution: In a spray bottle, mix warm water with a few drops of a pH-neutral dish soap, such as original Dawn. Avoid soaps with citrus extracts or degreasing agents, as these can be too acidic. Shake the bottle gently to mix.
- Spray and Wipe: Lightly mist a section of the countertop with your soapy water solution. Using a clean, damp microfiber cloth, wipe the surface in gentle, overlapping strokes. The microfiber will effectively lift dirt and grime without being abrasive.
- Rinse Away Residue: Soap residue can leave a dull film on your granite over time. To prevent this, rinse your microfiber cloth thoroughly with clean water, wring it out, and wipe down the countertop a second time to remove any lingering soap.
- Buff Dry for a Streak-Free Shine: This is a critical step. Using a separate, dry microfiber cloth, buff the countertop until it is completely dry. This not only prevents water spots but also brings out the natural shine of the stone. Work in circular motions for the best results.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Cloths and Tools
The tools you use are just as important as the cleaner. Microfiber cloths are the undisputed champion for cleaning granite. Their fine fibers are excellent at trapping dust and absorbing liquids without scratching the surface. Avoid using abrasive sponges or scouring pads, which can create tiny scratches that dull the finish over time. For tight spaces, like around the faucet or sink, a soft-bristled toothbrush can be used to gently scrub away buildup.
Why Simple is Best: The Power of Soap and Water
You might see many specialized granite cleaners on the market, but for daily use, nothing beats the simplicity and effectiveness of mild soap and water. The term “pH-neutral” means the cleaner is not acidic or alkaline. Granite sealants are designed to resist neutral substances. Acidic cleaners (low pH) and highly alkaline cleaners (high pH) can chemically react with the sealant, breaking it down and leaving the porous stone exposed. A few drops of basic dish soap in water create a gentle solution that cleans effectively without compromising this essential protective layer.
What to Never Use on Your Granite Countertops
Understanding what to avoid is perhaps the most important part of granite care. Using the wrong product can cause immediate and sometimes irreversible damage, such as etching, discoloration, or sealant degradation. Many common household cleaners fall into this category.
The Acidic Enemies: Vinegar, Lemon Juice, and Citrus Cleaners
Vinegar and lemon juice are often praised as natural, all-purpose cleaners, but they are highly acidic. This acidity is disastrous for granite and its sealant. When an acid comes into contact with the sealant, it begins to dissolve it, weakening the stone’s primary defense against stains. Furthermore, if the acid reaches the stone itself, it can react with the minerals within the granite, causing a dull spot known as an etch. Etching is physical damage to the stone’s surface and cannot be wiped away; it requires professional polishing to repair. This warning also applies to any cleaners containing citrus oils or acids.
Abrasive Cleaners and Scrubbers to Avoid
Granite is a hard stone, but its polished finish is delicate. Abrasive powders like Comet or Ajax, and scouring pads like steel wool or even the green side of a kitchen sponge, will scratch the surface. These scratches may be microscopic at first, but over time they accumulate, creating a dull, worn appearance that detracts from the stone’s natural beauty. Always stick to soft cloths and gentle cleaners. If you encounter a stubborn, stuck-on spot, try scraping it off carefully with a plastic putty knife or a razor blade held at a low angle, being extremely cautious not to gouge the stone.
Common Household Cleaners That Cause Damage
Many popular cleaning products are not safe for natural stone. It’s crucial to read labels, but here are some common culprits to keep off your granite:
- Windex and Glass Cleaners: Most glass cleaners contain ammonia, which is highly alkaline. Like acids, ammonia can break down the granite sealant and dull the finish.
- Bleach: Bleach is a powerful disinfectant but is far too harsh for granite. It can strip the sealant and may even discolor darker-colored stones, leaving permanent light spots.
- Degreasers: While you might need to tackle grease, general-purpose chemical degreasers are often too strong and can compromise the sealant. For greasy messes, stick to a dedicated stone-safe degreaser or the methods described in the next section.
- All-Purpose Wipes: Disinfectant wipes from brands like Clorox or Lysol often contain citric acid or other harsh chemicals that are unsafe for sealed stone.
Tackling Common Stains and Spills Effectively
Even with a good sealant, spills happen. The key to preventing a spill from becoming a permanent stain is to act quickly. The sealant provides a grace period by slowing down absorption, giving you time to clean up. However, certain substances are more persistent and may require specific treatments if they are left to sit.
Dealing with Oil-Based Stains (Grease, Cooking Oil)
Oil is one of the most common culprits for granite stains because it can deeply penetrate the stone’s pores, leaving a dark spot. If you notice an oil stain, you can often pull it out using a poultice.
- Create a Poultice Paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a thick paste, similar in consistency to peanut butter. Do not use hydrogen peroxide in this mixture for oil stains.
- Apply the Poultice: Generously apply the paste directly onto the oil stain, extending about a half-inch beyond its edges. The layer should be about a quarter-inch thick.
- Cover and Wait: Cover the area with plastic wrap and tape down the edges. This keeps the paste moist, allowing it to work longer. Let the poultice sit undisturbed for at least 24 hours.
- Remove and Clean: After 24 hours, remove the plastic wrap and allow the paste to dry completely. Once dry, gently scrape it off with a plastic scraper. Clean the area with your daily soap and water solution and buff dry. The baking soda should have drawn the oil out of the stone. This process may need to be repeated for deep-set stains.
Removing Organic Stains (Coffee, Tea, Wine, Juice)
Organic stains from colorful liquids like red wine, coffee, or fruit juice can cause panic, but they are often treatable. For these types of stains, a different approach is needed.
- Prepare the Solution: Mix a few drops of 12% hydrogen peroxide with a small amount of water. For a more targeted application, you can also create a poultice by mixing the hydrogen peroxide with baking soda to form a paste.
- Test First: Crucially, before applying to the stain, test your solution on a hidden part of your countertop, such as under a cabinet overhang or behind an appliance. Hydrogen peroxide can lighten some darker granites, so this test is essential.
- Apply and Wait: Apply the solution or paste to the stain, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it sit for 24 hours.
- Clean Up: Remove the poultice, clean the area with soap and water, and dry thoroughly. The stain should be visibly lighter or gone completely.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
The single most effective way to manage stains is to prevent them. Wipe up spills, especially acidic or oily ones, as soon as they happen. A well-sealed granite countertop can resist liquids for several minutes, but prolonged contact increases the risk of penetration. Keeping a roll of paper towels or a microfiber cloth handy in the kitchen is a simple habit that will save you a lot of trouble later on.
How to Disinfect Granite Countertops Safely
In a kitchen, cleaning for appearance is one thing, but sanitizing for health is another. You need a way to kill germs and bacteria without resorting to the harsh chemicals we’ve already established are harmful to granite. Fortunately, there are safe and effective ways to disinfect your stone surfaces.
The Go-To Sanitizing Solution
The safest and most effective disinfectant for granite is a simple mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water.
- Create the Spray: In a spray bottle, mix a 50/50 solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol and water. You can use up to a 91% alcohol concentration if you prefer, but 70% is sufficient for disinfecting.
- How to Use: After your daily cleaning, lightly mist the countertop with the alcohol solution. Let it sit on the surface for 3-5 minutes to give it time to kill bacteria and viruses.
- Wipe and Dry: After the dwell time, wipe the surface with a clean, damp cloth to rinse, and then buff dry with another clean cloth. The alcohol will evaporate quickly, leaving a streak-free, sanitized surface. This method is effective and won’t damage your sealant.
Commercial Granite Disinfectants
If you prefer a ready-made product, there are several commercial cleaners specifically formulated to both clean and disinfect natural stone. Look for products from reputable brands like Granite Gold, Weiman, or Method Daily Granite Cleaner. These products are pH-balanced and tested to be safe on sealed stone. They offer the convenience of an all-in-one solution while providing peace of mind that you are not harming your countertops. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
What Not to Use for Disinfecting
It bears repeating: avoid using standard disinfectant wipes, such as those made by Clorox or Lysol, on your granite. While convenient, they contain acids and other harsh chemicals that will degrade the sealant over time. The damage may not be visible after one or two uses, but consistent use will lead to a dull finish and increased susceptibility to staining. Sticking to an alcohol-based solution or a dedicated stone-safe product is the best practice for long-term care.
Deep Cleaning and Restoring Shine to Your Granite
Even with diligent daily care, countertops can sometimes develop a haze or buildup from cooking oils or cleaning residues. A periodic deep clean, perhaps once every few months, can strip away this film and restore the stone’s clarity and shine. This is also a good time to polish the surface for an extra layer of brilliance.
Performing a Deep Clean
A deep clean goes a step beyond the daily wipe-down. It’s about thoroughly clearing the surface of any accumulated grime.
- Clear Everything: Remove all appliances, utensil holders, and other items from your countertops to ensure you can access every inch of the surface.
- Use a Dedicated Cleaner: For a deep clean, it’s best to use a high-quality, stone-safe cleaner designed to break down buildup. Spray the cleaner generously over the entire surface and let it sit for a few minutes according to the product directions.
- Gentle Scrubbing: Use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad or a microfiber cloth to gently scrub the surface. Pay extra attention to high-use areas, like around the stove and sink, where buildup is most likely to occur.
- Rinse Thoroughly: It’s very important to rinse all of the cleaner off. Wipe the countertops multiple times with a clean, damp cloth to ensure no residue is left behind.
- Dry Completely: As always, finish by buffing the entire surface dry with a clean microfiber cloth to prevent spots and reveal the clean finish.
How to Polish Granite for a Lasting Gleam
Polishing is different from cleaning or sealing. A polish is a topical product designed to enhance the shine and smoothness of the stone’s surface, making it look richer and more vibrant. It can also provide a minor, temporary barrier against fingerprints and water spots.
- Choose the Right Product: Select a polish specifically formulated for granite. These are widely available at home improvement stores.
- Apply Sparingly: After a deep clean, apply a small amount of polish to a clean microfiber cloth.
- Work in Sections: Working in small, manageable sections (e.g., a 3×3 foot area), wipe the polish onto the granite using circular motions.
- Buff to a Shine: Before the polish dries, use a separate, clean microfiber cloth to buff the area until the shine is restored and any hazy residue is gone. Continue this process section by section until the entire countertop is polished.
An expert tip for a brilliant shine is to ensure the final buffing is done with a completely dry, clean cloth. Any moisture or leftover product will cause streaks.
Understanding and Maintaining Your Granite’s Sealant
The sealant is the invisible shield that protects your granite from stains. It’s not a plastic coating on the surface; rather, it’s an impregnator that penetrates the stone and fills its microscopic pores. This prevents liquids from soaking in. Over time, with regular use and cleaning, this sealant can wear down, so it’s important to know when it’s time to reapply it.
The Crucial Role of a Good Sealant
A properly sealed granite countertop is stain-resistant, not stain-proof. The sealant slows down the rate at which liquids can be absorbed, giving you time to clean up spills. Without a functional sealant, liquids like wine, oil, or juice can quickly seep into the stone, creating stains that are difficult or impossible to remove. Maintaining the seal is the single most important preventative measure you can take to protect your investment.
How to Test if Your Granite Needs Resealing
You don’t have to guess when it’s time to reseal. There’s a simple test you can perform every few months to check the integrity of your sealant.
- The Water Test: Pour a small puddle of water, about 3 inches in diameter, onto the surface of your granite, particularly in a high-use area near the sink.
- Observe and Time: Watch the water. If it beads up tightly and remains on the surface, your sealant is in excellent condition.
- Check for Absorption: If, after 10-15 minutes, the water has started to soak into the stone and has created a dark spot, your sealant is weakening and it’s time to reseal. If the water soaks in almost immediately, resealing is urgent.
The Process of Resealing Your Countertops
Resealing granite is a straightforward DIY project that most homeowners can handle.
- Clean and Dry: Start by deep cleaning your countertops as described above. It is absolutely essential that the surface is perfectly clean and completely dry before you begin. Allow at least 24 hours for the stone to dry out after cleaning.
- Ensure Ventilation: Open windows and turn on fans. Most sealers have strong fumes.
- Apply the Sealer: Following the product’s instructions, apply the granite sealer. Most are applied by spraying the sealer onto a section of the counter and immediately spreading it evenly with a clean cloth.
- Let it Penetrate: Allow the sealer to sit and penetrate the stone for the amount of time specified by the manufacturer, typically 5-15 minutes. Do not let it dry on the surface.
- Wipe Away ALL Excess: This is the most critical step. After the penetration time is up, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe away every bit of excess sealer from the surface. If sealer dries on top of the granite, it will leave a hazy, streaky film that is very difficult to remove.
- Cure: Let the countertops cure for the recommended time (usually 24-48 hours) before resuming normal use.
By mastering how to clean granite countertops properly, you can keep their shine and durability for years while avoiding costly damage. Schedule your maid services and enjoy a spotless, polished kitchen without the stress.
Conclusion
Caring for your granite countertops is a straightforward practice built on gentle consistency. The foundation of proper maintenance rests on a simple daily routine using pH-neutral soap and water, followed by a thorough drying to bring out the stone’s natural luster. Just as vital is knowing which products to avoid; harsh chemicals like vinegar, ammonia, and bleach can irreversibly damage your stone’s protective sealant, leaving it exposed to stains and etching. When spills do happen, addressing them quickly and using the correct stain-removal technique, such as a poultice for oil, can make all the difference.
By incorporating these simple habits, including periodically checking your sealant and performing a deep clean, you are actively preserving the beauty and longevity of your investment. These surfaces are designed to last a lifetime, and with the right care, they will continue to be a durable and elegant focal point in your home. If you encounter a stubborn stain or damage that these methods cannot fix, don’t hesitate to contact a professional stone restoration specialist. They have the tools and expertise to handle more complex issues and keep your granite looking flawless. Contact us and Get a Free Quote Today.