how to clean granite countertops

To clean granite countertops safely and keep them looking polished, use a gentle daily routine with mild soap or a pH‑neutral cleaner, avoid harsh chemicals, and tackle stains with baking soda paste rather than vinegar or lemon juice.

Basic daily cleaning

• Use a soft microfiber cloth or sponge with warm water and a drop of mild dish soap or a pH‑neutral granite cleaner.

• Wipe the counter to remove crumbs, grease, and spills, then go over it with a cloth dampened in clean water to remove soap residue so it does not leave a dull film.

• Dry thoroughly with a clean towel to prevent water spots and maintain a smooth shine.

Dealing with stains and greasy spots

• For oily or stubborn stains, make a thick paste of baking soda and water, spread a thin layer over the spot, and gently rub with a soft cloth in circular motions.

• Rinse with warm, soapy water, then fresh water, and dry; for deep stains, leave the baking soda paste on overnight before wiping away.

• If a stain still lingers, repeat the paste treatment rather than turning to acidic DIY cleaners that can etch the stone surface.

Disinfecting without damage

• Mix roughly 1 part isopropyl alcohol with 3–4 parts water, add a couple of drops of mild dish soap, and put it in a spray bottle as a gentle disinfecting solution.

• Lightly mist the granite, let it sit about 5–10 minutes, then wipe dry with a microfiber cloth to sanitize while preserving the sealant.

• Do not rely on straight bleach or strong disinfectant sprays made for other surfaces, since repeated use can dull or weaken the finish.

What to avoid on granite

• Skip vinegar, lemon juice, or other acidic products, as well as abrasive powders or scrub pads, which can etch or scratch the stone over time.

• Avoid ammonia, oven cleaner, and generic glass cleaners on a regular basis; these can degrade the sealant and leave the countertop looking cloudy.

• Do not use undiluted disinfectants or degreasers marketed for heavy‑duty cleaning, since granite needs more gentle care than many synthetic surfaces.

Extra care: polishing and sealing

• After cleaning, you can buff with a dry microfiber cloth, or occasionally use a baking‑soda‑and‑water paste lightly to enhance the natural shine, wiping and drying thoroughly afterward.

• Many fabricators recommend periodically sealing granite; when resealing, clean, dry, then spray on a granite sealant, let it absorb for about 10 minutes, and buff off any excess.

• Check whether water no longer beads on the surface; if it darkens the stone instead, that is a sign you may need to reseal.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.