Granite makes for beautiful countertops. However, as a natural stone, it requires regular care and granite countertop cleaning to maintain its good looks. Follow this guide to get tips for routine cleaning, removing stains deeper cleaning up, and preventing damage.
Table of Contents
Supplies for Cleaning Granite
When it comes to keeping granite counters spotless, having the right supplies on hand is key. Before getting started, ensure your granite cleaning kit is equipped with the following:
- Mild cleaning products and cleaners specifically formulated for granite and natural stone surfaces
- Soft cloths and microfiber cloths
- Granite cleaner and granite polish
- Sealant to protect the granite
Having these supplies for cleaning and protecting granite makes routine maintenance quick and hassle-free. Keep them conveniently located under the sink or with other cleaning tools so they are always on hand when messes happen.
Daily Granite Cleaning
Clean granite countertops regularly to prevent the buildup of grime.
- Use a soft sponge and warm water to wipe up spills and dirt from granite counters and granite kitchen countertops.
- For a deeper clean, create a solution of warm water and mild dishwashing liquid. Wipe down granite surfaces with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.
- Always dry granite countertops thoroughly after cleaning to avoid water stains.
According to guidelines published by the Natural Stone Institute, granite should be sealed regularly and acidic spills should be promptly cleaned to prevent etching.
What to Avoid
When cleaning granite counters, be cautious about using products that could potentially damage the stone’s finish surface. Specifically, avoid the following:
- Harsh cleaners with citric acid or lemon juice can etch and stain the granite.
- Anything too abrasive that could scratch the granite surface.
Being mindful to avoid these harmful cleaners and abrasive tools will help maintain the integrity of your granite counters’ finish. Using only gentle, granite-safe products protects against discoloration, scratches, and costly damage when cleaning.
Removing Stains from Granite
Granite is porous and prone to stains from spills like wine, coffee, and other acidic liquids.
- First, try a paste of baking soda and water. Apply to the stain and allow to sit overnight. Rinse clean.
- For tougher stains, apply a poultice of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Let sit for a few hours before rinsing.
- Gently rub the remaining stains using a granite cleaner and a soft cloth.
Home improvement retailer Home Depot recommends frequent cleaning seal granite countertops with stone-safe cleaners and immediate treatment of spills to prevent scratches and maintain the integrity of natural granite surfaces.
Protecting Granite Countertops
- Seal granite countertops every 1-2 years with stone sealant to prevent stains.
- Use coasters under glasses to prevent stains.
- Clean spills quickly – acidic foods and liquids will etch the granite if left too long.
Preventing Damage
- Install coasters and trivets to protect granite kitchen countertops from heat and prevent cracking.
- Clean spills quickly to avoid stains from acidic liquids.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbers on granite surfaces.
Dealing with Granite Damage
- Use granite polish specially formulated to minimize and remove scratches.
- Reseal etched or stained granite with a sealant.
- For deeper damage, contact a stone restoration service. They can disguise marks using special fillers.
Deep Cleaning Granite Countertops
Do a regular cleaning thorough deep clean about once a week to keep granite counters spotless.
What You’ll Need
- Mild dish soap
- Baking soda
- Soft cloths and brush
- Bucket of warm water
How to Deep Clean Granite Countertops
- In a bucket, mix warm water with a small amount of mild dishwashing liquid.
- Use a soft brush dipped in the solution to gently clean granite surfaces. Scrub high-traffic areas around the sink and stove.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
- Sprinkle baking soda onto dampened soft cloths. Buff granite countertops to make them shine.
- Lastly, use a dry microfiber cloth to completely dry the granite.
FAQs
How should I routinely clean my granite counters?
For routine cleaning of granite floors, use a soft sponge or cloth with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap. Gently wipe down granite surfaces, then rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners.
What natural stone cleaners or sealers do you recommend?
Look for cleaners and sealers specifically formulated for natural stone like granite. Popular brands include Granite Gold, Black Diamond Stoneworks, and Miracle Sealants.
How can I get stains and dried spills out of granite?
Try making a paste of baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain and allow it to sit for several hours or overnight before rinsing. For tougher stains, use a store-bought granite cleaner along with a soft cloth to gently rub the stained granite clean area.
Why is it important to seal granite counters?
Since granite is porous, sealing it every 1-2 years will prevent stains from oil, juice, wine, and other liquids from setting into the stone. High-quality sealants also protect installed granite against bacteria growth.
How can I prevent scratching and damaging granite counters when cooking?
Always use hot pads, trivets, and cutting boards on granite countertops when placing hot pans or cutting food. This will help avoid scratching, pitting, and cracking. Cool granite gradually – avoid placing frozen or super hot items directly on the stone.
Can acidic foods and liquids stain granite?
Yes, acidic substances like tomatoes, vinegar, some citrus juices, juice, or wine can etch light-colored granite on contact. Promptly wipe up any spills of acidic liquids to prevent etching and discoloration.
What cleaning methods should be avoided?
Avoid using any abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads on granite as they can wear down the polished surface. It’s also best to avoid using products containing citric acids, bleach, or ammonia, as they can etch and discolor granite.
How often should I deep-clean granite counters?
Plan to do a thorough deep cleaning about once a week using a granite-safe cleaning solution. This removes residue and grime-tough stains that regular daily surface cleaning won’t catch. Pay close attention to heavy-use areas around sinks and stoves.
End Notes
Caring properly for your granite counters might seem daunting, but as you can see – it’s straightforward without requiring much actual effort. Just be sure that as soon as a spill happens, you wipe it up quickly with a soft cloth or paper towel. Use only gentle cleaners specifically made for natural stone along with warm water for routine maintenance. Be diligent about resealing your granite every year or two to lock out stains and bacteria.
By being proactive against grime buildup daily cleaning up, and avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals and temperature extremes, you can keep your granite counters glistening like new for many years. A little attention today prevents costly repairs down the road. So take a few minutes to review these simple habits for keeping granite pristine. Then implement a quick daily surface wipe down along with weekly deeper cleans. With minimal regular TLC, those exquisite granite countertops that make your kitchen will maintain their resilient beauty while providing a sanitary food prep surface.
