How to actually clean granite countertops, according to an expert | CNN Underscored (2024)

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How to actually clean granite countertops, according to an expert | CNN Underscored? ›

1. Wet a microfiber cloth with warm water, add a drop of mild dish soap and wring it out so that it is damp, but not dripping, and slightly sudsy. 2. Wipe the entire surface thoroughly, rinsing and reapplying soap as needed to avoid spreading filth picked up by the cloth.

Scrub the Surface

Frequent use of vinegar, Windex or bleach will dull the granite and weaken the sealant. Instead, a little soap and water should do the trick. Add dish soap and warm water to a sponge, get a good lather and begin cleaning. Avoid using abrasive pads, as granite can be scratched.

If you're looking for a product that cleans and disinfects, we'd suggest the Weiman Daily Disinfectant Granite & Stone Cleaner. Just be sure to follow the directions exactly, and leave the product sitting wet on your counters for five to 10 minutes before wiping off to ensure germs are fully killed.

An effective solution contains equal parts water and isopropyl alcohol. Simply mix the ingredients together and spray them onto the granite surface. Let it sit for three to five minutes, rinse the area dry, and promptly dry it with a clean microfiber cloth.

The reason you should avoid Clorox wipes on granite countertops is that they contain large amounts of citric acid. As citric acid is very strong, these ingredients can break down the sealant that is placed on the granite kitchen worktops which is there to protect it.

How do you make granite shine like new? To restore shine on dull countertops, add a few drops of vegetable oil to a microfiber cloth. Wipe the countertop all over with the oiled cloth and then use another clean microfiber cloth to buff the finish to a glossy shine.

Vinegar is made up of acids that can severely harm your granite. Even if it is diluted, vinegar may still leave acids on your granite countertops. This can cause your natural stone countertops to etch. You can tell that your granite countertops have begun to etch by seeing a small ring or some sign of a watermark.

Luckily, everything you'll need to clean your hard surfaces can already be found in your home: Concentrated dish soap that's tough on stains and grease while staying gentle on stainless steel, granite, and glassware, like Dawn® Platinum Powerwash Dish Spray. Soft cloth and sponge.

Though commonly used as a wound disinfectant, hydrogen peroxide also works wonders on your granite tops. A solution of hydrogen peroxide removes stains without bleaching or discoloring your countertops.

What is the easiest way to clean granite? ›

A well-sealed granite counter is the best barrier to bacteria, with hot water and dish soap being used daily. If you need something stronger, use a bottle of 70% isopropyl alcohol. Spray on the worktop, leave for up to five minutes and rinse with warm water before drying with a clean microfibre cloth.

Fancy cleaners aren't necessary for cleaning granite counters on a daily basis. You really only need three things: Warm water, mild dishwashing liquid and a microfiber cloth. Tip: Make sure your dishwashing liquid doesn't contain citrus extracts, as they're too acidic for granite countertops.

Typically, granite should be resealed every 12 to 18 months. Nevertheless, there are some other factors that come into play when determining how often to reseal granite countertops. For example, a lighter colored granite will need to be resealed more often because it is typically more porous.

A 70% isopropyl alcohol product is the best one to use as a cleaner because it has a higher moisture content and stays on surfaces longer, so it has time to kill bacteria. Any mixture higher than 70% evaporates too quickly, so it won't clean as well.