what. to use to clean granite countertops

How To Clean and Disinfect Granite Countertops

SaveComments

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission.

For something seemingly so simple, there's a lot of different advice out there when it comes to the best way to clean and disinfect granite countertops. Use Windex! No, never use Windex! Use a special granite-only cleaner! No, you don't need a special granite-only cleaner! But after doing our own research, we think we've discovered a consensus among stone experts on how to care for granite. The best part? You really don't need any special cleaners to get those countertops shiny and streak-free.

3 Things to Know About Cleaning Granite

1. It's important to make sure your granite countertop is sealed.

While granite is a very hard surface and less porous than marble, unsealed or weakly sealed granite will soak up oils, spills, and stains. To check whether your granite is sealed, leave a few drops of water on the surface. If it beads up, you have a secure seal. If after a few minutes the water has soaked into the granite, then it's time to reseal the stone.

2. You shouldn't use harsh or abrasive cleaners and sponges.

Windex; acidic cleaners, like vinegar, lemon, lime; or anything with ammonia or bleach should be avoided. Frequent use of these chemicals will dull and weaken the sealant over time. Basically, the harsher the cleaner, the quicker it will break down the sealant.

3. A gentle cloth is key.

Use warm water, a mild or gentle dish soap, and a nubby washcloth or microfiber cloth for daily wipe-downs.

What to Know About Disinfecting Granite Countertops

A well-sealed granite countertop is relatively impervious to bacteria. Hot water and dish soap should be adequate for daily sanitizing. However, if a disinfectant is desired, reach for a bottle of 70% isopropyl alcohol. Spray it onto the granite, allow to sit for three to five minutes, and then rinse with water and dry with a clean microfiber cloth. Avoid bleach or ammonia-based cleaners.

Should You Use a Special Granite-Safe Cleaner?

There are usually lots of granite cleaners out there (like this one from Method and this one from Granite Gold). Some all-purpose surface cleaners also specify that they're safe for granite. Of course, with the current coronavirus pandemic, these cleaners are harder and harder to find. If you have one or happen to find a bottle, you can try one. But you don't need one of these cleaners in order to tackle your granite. The cleaning tutorial below will work just fine! Ready? Let's take a look at the steps!

How To Clean and Disinfect Granite Countertops

What You Need

Warm water
Mild or gentle dish soap
Dish cloth
Clean microfiber cloth or terrycloth towel
Isopropyl alcohol
Spray bottle

Instructions

Wet your dish cloth with warm, soapy water: Fill a clean sink with warm water and a mild dish soap, then thoroughly wet a clean dish cloth.
Wipe down the granite countertops: You don't need us to tell you how to do this part. Just use your wet dish cloth to wipe away any spills or crumbs on your countertop!
Dry with a microfiber cloth to avoid streaking: Dry and buff your granite countertop thoroughly with a microfiber cloth or soft terry cloth towel to avoid streaking.
Disinfect: To periodically disinfect your granite countertops, remove soap residue, and restore shine, spray 70% isopropyl alcohol onto your counters. Allow it to sit for three to five minutes, then rinse with water and dry with a clean microfiber cloth.
Enjoy!: Your nice, shiny, clean granite countertops are ready to go.

(Image credit: The Kitchn)

Cambria Bold

Contributor

Cambria was an editor for both Apartment Therapy and The Kitchn for eight years, from 2008 through 2016.

SaveComments