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The Ultimate Granite Countertop Cleaning Guide

Updated on December 28, 2022 by Joseph D. Nielson

Table of Contents

Granite countertop and cupboard in home kitchen

The lovely granite countertops in your kitchen were probably one of the things that influenced your decision to buy your home, but now that you have them, you realize you have no idea how to clean and care for them.

Well you’ve come to the correct place. In this post, we will show you how to clean your granite countertop so that it always looks its best. We’ll also give you some advice on how to prevent damaging the surface.

Selecting the Best Products

Choosing the right products is one of the most main complaints folks face when cleaning a granite countertop. There are so many different cleansers on the market that it can be difficult to determine which ones are safe to use on granite.

Another difficulty is avoiding streaks. When cleaning any surface, you want to avoid leaving streaks or stains behind. Because granite is a porous substance, this can be very difficult. You can easily wind up with a streaky countertop if you’re not careful.

Lastly, many people are unsure how frequently they should clean their granite countertop. Because it is such a durable material, there’s this idea that it does not require as much cleaning as other surfaces. Granite, on the other hand, should be cleaned on a regular basis to maintain it looking its best.

By following the advice in this article, you can prevent these problems and keep your granite countertop in pristine condition. With our help, you’ll be a granite countertop cleaning pro in no time!

cleaning microfiber towels isolated against white background

Select The Best Cleaning Products

When cleaning a granite countertop, one of the most important things to remember is to use the best cleaning products. Some cleaners can be excessively aggressive and damage the granite’s surface. To avoid this, be sure to use a cleaner developed exclusively for granite.

Types of cleaners to avoid

Some cleaners should be avoided while cleaning your granite countertop since they can damage the surface. Vinegar, bleach, ammonia, and citrus-based cleansers are examples.

Before purchasing a cleaner that is safe to use on granite, thoroughly read the labeling. Many manufactures will identify granite as one of the surfaces safe to use with their product. You can also contact a sales representative for assistance in locating the best cleaner for your needs.

Best cleaners for granite

The good news is, there are several sorts of cleansers that are suitable for use on granite. Water-based cleansers, enzymatic cleaners, and oil-based cleaners are examples of these.

Water-based cleansers are the most commonly used on granite. They are usually gentle and effective when it comes to cleaning the surface. Enzymatic cleansers are also suitable for use on granite and are frequently used to remove stubborn stains. 

Although oil-based cleansers can be used on granite, they should be avoided if possible because they can leave a residue.

Make your own granite cleaner

You can even prepare your own granite cleaner at home if you wish. To accomplish this, combine two tablespoons of dish soap and two cups of warm water. Then, as needed, use this solution to clean your granite countertop.

Use A Soft Cloth

It is recommended to use a soft cloth when washing your granite countertop. This will help to avoid scratching the granite’s surface. If you don’t have a soft cloth, a paper towel or an old t-shirt will suffice.

Wipe In A Circular Motion

When washing your granite countertop, use a circular motion. This will assist to prevent streaks and ensure that the cleaner is distributed evenly.

Wiping in a circular motion is vital for avoiding streaks. If you wipe back and forth, you’re more likely to miss regions and leave streaks. Wiping in a circular motion gives complete coverage and avoids missed spots. It also helps to ensure that the cleaner is applied evenly. Finally, wiping in a circular motion might aid in the removal of difficult stains.

Rinse With Water

After washing your granite countertop, make sure to rinse it with water. This will aid in the removal of any remaining cleaner and residue.

Rinsing is a vital stage in the cleaning process because it removes any remaining cleaner or residue. If you do not rinse your granite countertop after cleaning it, the cleaner may leave streaks or damage the surface over time. Furthermore, rinsing will help to keep your granite countertop looking its best.

Dry With A Soft Cloth

After you’ve finished rinsing your granite countertop, wipe it down with a soft cloth. This will help to prevent water spots and keep the surface entirely dry.

It is critical to dry your granite countertop to avoid wet marks. If you do not dry your granite countertop, the water can leave streaks on the surface and harm it over time. Furthermore, drying will help to ensure that your granite countertop appears its finest at all times.

Do’s and Don’ts

When cleaning your granite countertop, there are a few things to keep in mind. To begin, use a soft cloth to wipe in a circular motion. Second, after you’ve completed cleaning your granite countertop, rinse it with water. Finally, use a soft cloth to dry your granite countertop to avoid wet marks.

Aside from these recommendations, there are a few other things to avoid when washing your granite countertop. To begin, avoid using aggressive cleaners because they can damage the granite’s surface. Second, avoid using a scrubber or abrasive pad, as they can also damage the granite’s surface. Finally, do not let your granite countertop air dry as this can result in wet streaks.

Caring For Your Granite Countertop

Cleaning your granite countertop is only one aspect of maintaining it. You’ll need to seal your granite countertop on a regular basis in addition to cleaning it. Sealing helps to protect the granite’s surface and keep it looking its best.

Sealing your granite countertop is essential because it protects it from stains and damage. Further to that, sealing helps keep your granite countertop looking its best by preventing dirt and grime from accumulating on the surface.

To seal your granite countertop, just apply a sealant to the surface and brush away any excess. Follow the directions on the sealant, since some require you to let it sit for a specific amount of time before wiping it away.

Cleaning and sealing your granite countertop is essential for keeping it looking its best. You can keep your granite countertop looking new by following these recommendations.

In Summary

To recap, regular cleaning is required to keep the beauty of your granite countertop. Remember to seal your granite countertop on a regular basis to preserve it stain-free and damage-free. By following these tips, you can maintain your granite countertop appearing brand new.

FAQ

1. How often should I clean my granite countertop?

You should clean your granite countertop on a regular basis, as this will help to keep it looking its best. Additionally, you should seal your granite countertop every six months to a year to protect the surface from stains and damage.

2. What cleaners can I use on my granite countertop?

You should use a mild soap and water solution when cleaning your granite countertop. Avoid using harsh cleaners, as they can damage the surface of the granite.

3. Can I use a scrubber or abrasive pad on my granite countertop?

No, you should not use a scrubber or abrasive pad on your granite countertop. These can damage the surface of the granite.

4. Do I need to seal my granite countertop?

Yes, you should seal your granite countertop on a regular basis to protect the surface from stains and damage. Sealing will also help to keep your granite countertop looking its best by preventing dirt and grime from building up on the surface.

5. How do I seal my granite countertop?

To seal your granite countertop, simply apply a sealant to the surface and wipe away any excess. Be sure to follow the directions on the sealant, as some require you to let it sit for a certain amount of time before wiping it away.

Joseph and Family
About Joseph D. Nielson

Former journalist and editor for various press groups, I now dedicate my time to reviewing products for the home and family life. When I get time to myself, I enjoy rock climbing, taking my dirt bike for a rip, and most importantly providing my family with the best home possible!