Cleaning Granite Countertops

You finally have your gorgeous granite countertops. Now, how do you keep them looking their best for years to come? Proper cleaning and maintenance on a daily basis is of the utmost importance to preserve the unique colors and shine of your granite counters.

Even if the countertops have not been used, the granite surface should be dusted off with a soft cloth each day. This applies whether it is a kitchen counter or a bathroom vanity. You should also avoid setting acidic or caustic liquids on them and also avoid scooting appliances or other heavy objects on the countertop as it can cause scratching.

When the granite countertops have been used, attempt to clean them with warm water and a soft cloth. If this does not work to remove visible grime, you should then only use cleaners that are mild or neutral in nature. These would include special cleaners specific for granite such as stone soap or use a mild dish soap. This is important because the stone can be easily stained, scratched, etched or pitted by a strong chemical cleaner or even by an acidic ingredient like lemon juice or vinegar. You should also avoid glass cleaner because this will cause a film build-up which will cause your granite to look clouded and streaked.

Most people find that mild dish soap and water is all they ever need. If you do want to get a granite specific cleaner, you can find many brands such as Marble Maverick, Stoneglide Wipes and Clean EnCounters. There is a good selection at most grocery stores and home improvement centers.

If you have a stubborn stain on your granite countertop, make a paste by mixing flour with 2 tablespoons of liquid dish soap and apply it to the stain. If the stain is from organic matter, like coffee or fruit, you can also mix 12% hydrogen peroxide with a couple of drops of ammonia and apply it to the stain. Most stains, however, can be avoided by wiping up spills immediately.

The same cleaning procedures should be used for prefabricated granite. This is because it is simply a thinner slice of stone that is laminated to plywood for strength whose price is much easier on the budget. The granite cleaners will not be effective on faux granite countertops. These should be cleaned using mild soap and water only.

You will also want to follow the recommendations given when you purchased your granite regarding having it resealed. Because it is a natural stone and because the sealing applied to it will wear away over time, this is a very important key in maintaining the polished look of your countertops.

By daily wiping your granite counters, quickly absorbing spills and following these cleaning tips along with periodic resealing, you will have a beautiful kitchen countertop or bathroom vanity that will last a lifetime.