Granite makes for an elegant and practical option to use as countertop material. The natural stone is hardy, and does not scratch easily, making it perfect to use in kitchens and bathrooms. However, there are a few do's and don'ts to consider when cleaning granite, as the natural stone requires a moderate level of care to avoid damage.
In this article, we'll show you how to clean granite countertops easily and effectively without leaving scratches or stains on your granite countertops. All you'll need are some store-bought granite cleaners, and a homemade stain remover made with household staples!
What You'll Need
- Non-acidic, stone-safe granite cleaner OR
- Castile soap
- Mild dish soap
- Baking soda (optional)
- Granite polish
- Soft microfiber cloth
- Scrub brush
How to Clean a Granite Countertop: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Mix the Cleaning Solution
If you're using a commercial, ready-to-use cleaning solution, then you can skip this step. However, you should read the label of your store-bought natural stone cleaner to find out if you have to dilute the solution. Many commercial brands of cleaners provide concentrated solutions that must be mixed with water, so read the instructions on the label carefully.
If you're creating your own cleaning solution using castile soap, you simply have to dilute pure, liquid castile soap in warm water. Add 1 teaspoon of castile soap for every 1 liter of water, and mix thoroughly. This solution is mild enough not to etch granite, while effective enough to remove grime from the granite surface.
Step 2: Run a Damp Cloth over Granite Countertop
Dampen a cloth with your preferred granite cleaner, and run the cloth all over your granite countertops. Make sure to go through the entire countertop surface, wiping in a circular motion to prevent streaks.
Rinse the cloth, and dampen it with the same cleaning solution. Go over each area one more time to clean any spots you may have missed. Clean the underside of your granite countertop, and the legs of the table.
Step 3: Spot Clean Oil Stain
For any food or oil-based stains, you can use a clean, damp cloth with a drop of dish soap to remove the stains. Dish soap has degreasing properties, so spot cleaning with dish soap will remove stains such as oil, grease, and soap scum. Add a bit of baking soda as an extra scrubbing power for mineral, water-based stains.
Keep rubbing the stained spot in a light, circular motion until the stain is gone. For deep-set stains, you may need to use a thicker, commercial stain remover made specifically to clean granite countertops.
You can create a homemade version using some flour or cornstarch, baking soda, and dish soap. Mix the ingredients together until it forms a thick, paste-like consistency, apply directly on heavily-stained areas, then seal with cling wrap overnight. The stain should be gone the next day.
Step 4: Run a Dry Cloth over Granite Countertop
Run a dry cloth to remove any soap, oil, or baking soda residue on your granite countertop. This way, you keep your granite countertops clean as you remove any excess moisture and debris from the surface. Use a soft cloth to avoid scratching the material, and a microfiber cloth does well to clean without leaving fibers behind unlike other materials.
Step 5: Polish the Granite Countertop
Polish your granite countertops with a store-bought granite polish, and reseal granite countertops to keep the glossy, glassy look. Alternatively, you can have our cleaning professionals tackle the job so you can be sure your granite is protected the right way!
Care Tips for Cleaning Granite Countertops
Granite is thankfully a more forgiving natural stone compared to similar varieties like marble and soapstone. Granite countertop maintenance is no different from maintaining other natural stone surfaces, but due to its hardness, granite countertops can withstand regular food preparation better than other stone alternatives.
Still, granite countertops require some level of care and maintenance when it comes to cleaning them. Here are a couple of care tips that can be generally beneficial to all types of granite surfaces, even white granite countertops:
- Avoid using acidic solutions when cleaning granite countertops. While granite is lower maintenance than marble, it can still etch when exposed to acidic solutions like citric acid, vinegar, and the like.
- Do not use abrasive scrubbers when cleaning granite. These will leave scratches that will make your granite look dull and
- Do not use all-purpose or multi-purpose cleaners to clean granite countertops. When in doubt, check the label on your cleaning solution whether the brand indicates their formula as safe for natural stone. Else, only use a granite cleaner to clean your countertops.
- Have your granite countertops polished every now and then to create a protective seal over the surface. There are DIY home solutions, and professional services that get the job done.
Overall, the main avoidance you need to consider in maintaining your granite countertops is its aversion to acids. Acidic solutions cause etching, which creates a rough, white patch on the surface. Over time, this weak point is where granite will erode.
Keeping a Clean Home
For any sort of cleaning chore or task, you can always trust Luce to be your number one partner in housekeeping! Our expert part time maids are well-versed in maintaining different home materials, and the care that goes into every natural stone surface.
Give us a call with the scope of your cleaning duties, and we'll schedule you a cleaning at your most convenient time!
