Ammonia, glass cleaners, bleach, and acids such as lemon or vinegar can strip granite and leave it susceptible to stains.
Granite countertops have been trendy for a long time for excellent reasons. Granite is highly durable, stylish, and low-maintenance. However, while granite is a robust and low-maintenance material, it’s not indestructible. As with any material, you have to handle granite countertops with care. Here is a guide on cleaning granite countertops.
Gather the Appropriate Tools and Materials When Cleaning Granite Countertops
Ammonia, glass cleaners, bleach, and acids such as lemon or vinegar can strip granite and leave it susceptible to stains. The best method to clean granite is a cleaner formulated for granite. Additionally, you can make a cleaning solution using mild dish soap. Use a soft cleaning cloth and a spray bottle. Also, you can remove stains from granite or disinfect it by keeping 12% hydrogen and rubbing alcohol on hand.
How to Clean the Surface of Your Granite Countertops
Clean your natural stone countertop using mild kitchen cleaner:
- Create a solution of mild dish soap and warm water. Refrain from using more than a tablespoon of soap.
- Place a soft cloth into the solution and wring it until it’s damp.
- Wipe the countertop in tiny circular motions with light to medium pressure.
- If there are dried food stains, apply more pressure. You can also try dampening the cloth and pressing it down on the spot to loosen up the debris. Then, wipe up the residue and discard it.
If you use granite cleaner:
- ensure that you pick one out designated for daily use:
- Always follow the package directions and ensure you don’t use an abrasive scrubber.
- Spray the solution over the natural stone countertop, wait for five minutes, and rinse the countertop thoroughly.
- Buff the surface dry with a microfiber towel.
Also, if you want to disinfect the surface after cleaning it, a solution of half water and isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle does the job. Spray the surface lightly and wipe it dry.
Stain Removal and Prevention
Remove stains by:
- Lightly dry buffing water spots with a fine steel wool
- Use a gentle household cleaner along with a soft cloth to get rid of oil-based staining such as milk
- Remove organic staining such as juice with 12% hydrogen peroxide
Prevent stains by:
- Cleaning up spills immediately, particularly acidic spills such as orange and tomato juice
- Blotting spills rather than wiping them to keep them from spreading over the surface
- Not storing cooking or cosmetic items that stain on granite countertops
- Using coasters under glasses to prevent condensation
Finally, it’s best to seal granite stone countertops yearly to keep them pristine. In the case of darker granite countertops, you might only have to seal them every two years. When in doubt, we’re always happy to answer all of your questions about countertop upkeep.
QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR CUSTOM COUNTERTOPS?
If you have questions regarding kitchen or bathroom countertop trends for 2022, Rock Tops Fabrication is here to answer them. Our trained professionals are here to make sure that your new kitchen is designed and finished in exactly the way you want it. We service Maryland, DC, and Virginia. Feel free to give us a call at 410-363-4257. For more information, tips, and tricks, and to see what we have been up to, be sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, Pinterest, and Houzz.