How to Clean Granite Counters
Cleaning granite counters may seem like a simple task, but there’s a lot of different advice out there on the best method. The most important note, you don’t need a special granite cleaner to get those countertops shiny and streak-free. Here’s what you should know about cleaning granite and what you’ll need.
- Sealed Counters. Granite is a hard surface but porous, meaning an unsealed granite will soak up oils, spills and stains. Check that your granite is sealed by leaving a few drops of water on the surface. If it beads up, the granite is sealed. However, if it soaks into the granite it’s time to reseal it.
- Avoid Harsh Cleaners. Ammonia or bleach based products should be avoided. Windex, vinegar, lemon and lime will dull and weaken the sealant over time. The harsher the cleaner the quicker the sealant will break down.
- Gentle Cloth. For daily cleaning, use warm water and a gentle dish soap with a microfiber cloth or nubby washcloth.
What You’ll Need:
- Warm water
- Mild or gentle dish soap
- Dish cloth
- Clean microfiber cloth or terrycloth towel
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Spray bottle
Directions:
- Wet your dish cloth with warm, soapy water: Fill a clean sink with warm water and a mild dish soap, then thoroughly wet a clean dish cloth.
- Wipe down the granite countertops: You don’t need us to tell you how to do this part. Just use your wet dish cloth to wipe away any spills or crumbs on your countertop!
- Dry with a microfiber cloth to avoid streaking: Dry and buff your granite countertop thoroughly with a microfiber cloth or soft terry cloth towel to avoid streaking.
- Disinfect: To periodically disinfect your granite countertops, remove soap residue, and restore shine, spray 70% isopropyl alcohol onto your counters. Allow it to sit for three to five minutes, then rinse with water and dry with a clean microfiber cloth.
- Enjoy!: Your nice, shiny, clean granite countertops are ready to go.
Source: the Kitchn