How to clean granite countertops? Keep them shiny and safe

Granite countertops are a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms, prized for their natural beauty, durability, and unique patterns. As a natural stone, however, granite is porous and sensitive to certain chemicals, requiring special care to maintain its lustrous shine and prevent damage. Improper cleaning can lead to dullness, etching, and staining, diminishing its appeal over time. Asubra Cleaning provides an essential guide on how to safely and effectively clean granite countertops, keeping them beautiful, hygienic, and long-lasting.

Why granite needs special care

Understanding granite’s composition is key to knowing why it requires specific cleaning methods.

Porous Nature: Unlike engineered quartz, granite is a natural stone with microscopic pores. These pores can absorb liquids, leading to staining if spills are not cleaned promptly or if the stone is not properly sealed.
Mineral Composition: Granite is primarily composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica. While hard, some of its minerals (like feldspar) can be sensitive to acids.
Acid Sensitivity: Acids, even mild ones found in common household cleaners (like vinegar, lemon juice, or some bathroom cleaners), can etch the surface of granite. Etching appears as dull, lighter spots where the acid has corroded the polished finish.
Sealant: Most granite countertops are factory-sealed or sealed upon installation to reduce porosity. This sealant is crucial for protection, but it wears down over time, necessitating re-sealing. Harsh cleaners can strip this sealant.
Investment: Granite is a significant investment in any home. Proper care protects that investment and maintains the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen or bathroom.

What cleaning products are safe?

Choosing the right cleaning products is paramount for granite.

pH-Neutral Cleaners: These are your go-to for daily cleaning. Look for cleaners specifically labeled “pH-neutral” or “safe for natural stone.” Many mild dish soaps are also pH-neutral.
- Examples: Granite Gold Daily Cleaner, Method Daily Granite Cleaner, or even just warm water with a few drops of mild, dye-free dish soap (like Dawn).
Water: Plain warm water is often sufficient for light wiping. Distilled water is even better to avoid mineral spots if you have hard tap water.
Rubbing Alcohol (Isopropyl Alcohol): Diluted rubbing alcohol can be effective for disinfection or stubborn, greasy spots, but it’s best to use sparingly and ensure it’s a dilute solution (e.g., 50/50 with water). It evaporates quickly and doesn’t leave residue.
Baking Soda: A gentle abrasive paste made with baking soda and water can be used for deep cleaning specific stains (as a poultice).
Microfiber Cloths: Soft, lint-free microfiber cloths are ideal for wiping granite without scratching or leaving streaks.

What to AVOID (Repetition is key!):

Acidic Cleaners: Vinegar, lemon juice, ammonia, bleach (in high concentrations), and many bathroom/tile cleaners (e.g., Windex, CLR, abrasive cleaners like Comet or Ajax).
Abrasive Scrubber Pads: Steel wool, scouring pads, or anything that can scratch the polished surface.
Harsh Chemicals: Any strong chemicals that are not specifically formulated for natural stone.

Daily cleaning routine

A consistent daily routine will keep your granite looking its best and prevent buildup.

Wipe Spills Immediately: The golden rule for granite. Any spills, especially acidic ones (coffee, wine, citrus juice, soda, oil), should be wiped up as quickly as possible before they can penetrate the sealant and stain or etch the stone.
Clean with Safe Solution:
- Dampen a clean microfiber cloth with warm water.
- For light cleaning, this cloth alone is often enough.
- For everyday grime, spray your pH-neutral granite cleaner (or a few drops of mild dish soap mixed in warm water) onto the microfiber cloth (never directly onto the granite).
- Wipe down the entire countertop surface, including around the sink and backsplash.
Rinse (if using soap): If you used dish soap, dampen a separate clean microfiber cloth with plain water and wipe down the counters to rinse off any soap residue. Leaving soap residue can lead to a dull film over time.
Dry and Buff: Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to thoroughly dry the countertops. This prevents water spots and helps maintain the shine. Buff gently for an extra gleam.

Deep cleaning for stains

Even with daily cleaning, stains can happen. The method depends on the type of stain.

Oil-Based Stains (Cooking oil, grease, butter, cosmetics):
1. Poultice Method: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water (or hydrogen peroxide for white granite) to form a thick, peanut-butter consistency paste.
2. Apply the paste liberally over the stain, covering it completely.
3. Cover the paste with plastic wrap and tape the edges down.
4. Allow it to sit for at least 12-24 hours. The baking soda will absorb the oil.
5. Remove the plastic wrap, scrape off the dried paste with a plastic putty knife (not metal), and rinse thoroughly with plain water.
6. Dry the area completely. Repeat if necessary.
Water-Spots/Hard Water Stains:
1. Usually indicates a sealant issue or mineral buildup on top of the sealant.
2. Try gently scrubbing with a soft brush and a paste of baking soda and a few drops of water.
3. For stubborn spots, a commercial hard water remover specifically labeled “safe for natural stone” can be used (always test first).
Organic Stains (Coffee, tea, wine, fruit juice, food dyes):
1. Mix 12% hydrogen peroxide (available in pharmacies, stronger than typical 3%) with a few drops of ammonia or a few drops of mild dish soap to form a paste with baking soda.
2. Apply as a poultice (as described for oil-based stains) and leave for 12-24 hours.
3. Rinse and dry.
Ink Stains:
1. For dark inks, try a poultice with hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia.
2. For colored inks, a poultice with rubbing alcohol might work.
3. Always test in an inconspicuous area.

Important: For deep, set-in, or unknown stains, it’s often best to consult with a stone care professional.

Sealing granite: How and when

Sealing is a critical step in protecting granite from stains and maintaining its beauty.

Why Seal? Granite is porous. A penetrating sealer fills the microscopic pores, creating an invisible barrier that prevents liquids from soaking in and causing stains. It doesn’t make the granite stain-proof, but stain-resistant.
How to Test if Your Granite Needs Sealing:
1. Pour a small amount (about 1/4 cup) of water in a few spots on your clean, dry granite countertop.
2. Wait for 5-10 minutes.
3. If the water beads up on the surface, your sealant is still effective.
4. If the water soaks into the granite and leaves a dark spot (which should eventually dry out), your granite needs to be re-sealed.
When to Seal: The frequency depends on the type of granite, how much it’s used, and the quality of the previous sealant. Most general recommendations are every 1-5 years, but the water test is the most accurate indicator.
How to Seal:
1. Clean Thoroughly: Ensure your countertops are immaculately clean and completely dry before sealing.
2. Choose a Sealer: Purchase a high-quality, penetrating granite or natural stone sealer (e.g., from brands like StoneTech, Granite Gold, Aqua Mix).
3. Apply: Follow the product instructions precisely. Typically, you spray or wipe the sealer onto the surface, let it penetrate for a few minutes, and then wipe off any excess thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth. Over-application or not wiping off excess can leave a hazy residue.
4. Cure Time: Allow the sealer to cure completely as per instructions (often 24-48 hours) before using the counters or exposing them to moisture.

Common mistakes to avoid

These mistakes can permanently damage your granite.

Using Acidic Cleaners: As mentioned repeatedly, vinegar, lemon, and acidic bathroom cleaners will etch and dull granite.
Using Abrasive Cleaners/Tools: Scouring powders, steel wool, or rough sponges will scratch the polished surface.
Letting Spills Sit: Especially acidic ones like wine, coffee, juice, or oil.
Using Too Much Water: While granite is durable, excessive pooling of water can potentially lead to mineral buildup or issues with the sealant. Always dry thoroughly.
Using Ammonia-Based Cleaners: Ammonia can dull granite and break down sealants over time.
Assuming All Stone Cleaners are the Same: Cleaners for ceramic tile are often too harsh for granite. Always check labels for “safe for natural stone” or “safe for granite.”

When to call in a professional

For certain issues, professional help is the safest and most effective solution.

Deep-Set Stains You Can’t Remove: If a stain (especially oil, rust, or dyes) has penetrated deeply and home poultices aren’t working, a stone restoration professional has access to stronger, specialized chemicals and techniques.
Etching: If your granite has dull, light spots from acid etching, these can often be polished out by a professional stone fabricator or restorer. This is a repair, not a cleaning.
Resealing: While DIY sealing is possible, a professional can ensure uniform application and proper product choice, especially for large areas or if you’re unsure.
Restoration: For general dullness, significant scratching, or if the granite simply doesn’t look as good as it used to, a professional can re-polish and restore its original luster.
Damage Repair: Cracks, chips, or seam issues should always be addressed by a professional.

By adhering to these care guidelines, your granite countertops will remain a stunning and safe focal point in your home for decades to come.

Are your granite countertops losing their sparkle, or battling stubborn stains? Don’t risk damaging your investment! Asubra Cleaning offers expert natural stone cleaning and maintenance services, ensuring your granite is meticulously cleaned, safely cared for, and beautifully restored. We can also advise on sealing. Contact us today for a free estimate and let your granite shine again!