How to Clean a Granite Countertop
Granite countertops are often installed for their visual appeal and for their ability to increase the value of a home. Unfortunately, unless you have previously owned granite counters or know someone who does, you may not realize that keeping them looking their best can be a challenge. If you are considering them for your home it is important to know how to clean them the right way.
Items needed:
- Soft cloth
- Dishwashing liquid
- Granite or stone cleaner
Instructions:
- Use a soft cloth to immediately wipe up any spills that occur on your countertops. Failure to clean spills immediately allows penetration which makes stains more difficult or impossible to clean.
- Avoid using any type of acid such as vinegar to clean the counters. This results in etching and dulling of the granite tops.
- Fill a basin or your kitchen sink with warm water and mix in several drops of a mild dishwashing liquid. Dip your cloth into the soapy water and wring it out thoroughly.
- Use the cloth to wipe the surface of the granite countertops. Repeat wetting the cloth and wringing it out as many times as necessary to fully clean the surface.
- Rinse the countertop thoroughly by using a clean cloth that has been wet with plain, hot water only. This removes any traces of the soapy water and prevents any filmy residue or streaking that the dishwashing liquid may have caused.
- Use a clean, soft and dry cloth to wipe down the damp counters until they are dry.
- Purchase a cleaner that is made specifically for stone or granite countertops if you prefer not to use soap and water. These are available as sprays or as convenient wipes.
Tip:
Be preventative and use coasters underneath glasses and cups or place a protective barrier between the granite counter and other wet materials. This is especially important if you are setting soda or fruit juice down on the counters as those types of drinks can damage the granite.