Best Way to Clean Granite Countertops

Granite kitchen countertops have remained popular since the early 2000s. This natural stone is beautiful, resists bacteria and staining, and emits a lustrous shine. Yet, it is important to note that granite requires a specific cleaning routine to ensure the sealant doesn’t wear off.

There are rules about how to clean granite countertops. In particular, don’t use harsh chemicals, acidic cleaners, or abrasive scrubbing tools. Keep your natural stone counters looking great for years with this guide to cleaning granite countertops.

What You'll Need

Before you begin, you’ll need to know what equipment, tools, and materials are necessary before you find out how to clean granite countertops.

Equipment / Tools

• Soft cotton cloth or clean rag mops
• Spray bottle
• Soft cloth

Materials

• Rubbing alcohol
• Mild liquid dishwashing detergent
• Commercial stone cleaner (optional)
• Baking soda
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Plastic wrap

How to Care for Granite Countertops

1. Sealant

Granite counters often come with a sealant to protect the porous stone. This sealant will wear off after a couple of years, which means you must reseal them. To test whether your granite needs to be resealed, pour distilled water onto the granite. If the water is immediately absorbed into the stone, it needs to be resealed.

It’s possible to seal granite countertops yourself, but you’ll enjoy better results if you hire a professional to do it.

2. Heat Protection

Although granite is heat-resistant, it’s best to use hot pads under hot pots, pans, and dishes to prevent thermal shock and potential cracks. Extreme temperature changes can weaken the sealant.

3. Avoid Sharp Objects

Do not use granite countertops as cutting surfaces. Instead, use cutting boards to prevent scratching your granite counters.

4. Regular Dusting

Dust your countertops daily with a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove debris and prevent scratching from particles.

5. Stain Prevention

Quickly wipe up spills from acidic liquids, such as citrus juices, vinegar, tomatoes, or wine to prevent etching and staining. Place coasters or trivets under beverages, especially in high-traffic areas.

How to Clean Granite Countertops

Now that you have made sure your countertops are sealed and protected from spills, it’s time to talk about the proper way to clean them each day.

Follow these tips for the best way to clean granite countertops:

1. Daily Cleaning Routine

• Use a soft, damp cloth or sponge to wipe away spills and crumbs promptly.
• Avoid abrasive cleaning pads or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface and sealant.
• Warm water and a couple of drops of dish soap work well for cleaning.
• Make your own best granite cleaner: Mix 50/50 rubbing alcohol and water and add your favorite essential oil if you want a nice smell in your kitchen.
• Wipe down counters with a cloth to avoid water spots.

2. Use Appropriate Cleaning Products

• Opt for pH-neutral cleaners recommended for natural stone surfaces.
• Do not use abrasive or acidic cleaners, including vinegar, which can harm the stone's finish.

How to Remove Stains from Granite

Granite is a porous stone, which means that some spills can seep through and stain your countertops. Follow these tips to remove stains from your granite countertops.

• Make a paste of baking soda and water.
• With a soft sponge, apply the baking soda paste on the stain and work it into the stone. With a soft cloth, scrub the counter gently and rinse thoroughly. Repeat as needed.
• If the stain persists, put a layer of paste on the stain and let it sit overnight.
• To finish, wipe the granite with a soft cloth to show off your stain-free surface.

Help When You Need It

Now you know the best way to clean granite countertops so they look great and last decades. Give the rest of your house the same attention with regular professional house cleaning services. The professionals at Molly Maid® offer reliable weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning services so you can work on other home maintenance tasks. All our work is backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise™, which guarantees your satisfaction. Request a free estimate today.