How to Clean Granite

There are many ways to clean granite counter tops and keep them looking shiny and brilliant.. Just avoid using cleaners that are too harsh, they can damage the sealant and dull the finish. Here are some simple steps to clean your granite surfaces and restore their shine.

What You Will Need:

• ● Soft cloth or sponge
• ● Bucket or large bowl
• ● Neutral dishwashing liquid
• ● Warm water
• ● Microfiber cloth
• ● Natural stone or granite cleaner

The Cleaning Process:

• 1, Add a few drops of dishwashing liquid to the bucket or large bowl of warm water, working it until suds form.
• 2. Wet your sponge or cloth with the soapy water and wipe the soapstone surface thoroughly.
• 3. Rinse out your sponge or cloth with plain hot water and wipe away any sudsy residue from the soapstone surface. If you have streaks and a dull finish, it may be because there is still soap residue on the surface.
• 4. Rinse the sponge or cloth again with hot water and wring it out thoroughly to remove most of the excess water.
• 5. Wipe over the surface again to remove any residue.
• 6. Wipe the surface dry with a microfiber cloth.
• 7. Periodically clean your granite surfaces with a natural stone or granite cleaner to restore shine. Products such as Granite Gold are available at grocery stores, department stores, hardwares and home improvement stores.

Granite is a porous stone, so time is of the essence when it comes to removing stains. Blot at the stain rather than rubbing it to avoid spreading the stain. The longer a stain sits, the more likely it is to soak in and will be nearly impossible to remove. Here is one removal technique that will work for several common stains.

What You Will Need:

• ● Powdered whiting product such as Talc (available at paint and home improvement stores)
• ● Hydrogen Peroxide
• ● Water
• ● Plastic wrap
• ● Tape
• ● Small bowl
• ● Clean cloths or sponge
• ● Microfiber cloth

The Removal Process:

• 1. Poultice is made to absorb the stain out of the granite, but it will take time.
• 2. Begin by mixing the poultice (powdered whiting and hydrogen peroxide) according to manufacturer’s instructions in the small bowl. You will want to create a thick paste. It should be the consistence of putty.
• 3. Apply to the stained area, keeping it only on the stain. The layer of paste should be about one fourth of an inch thick and overlap the stain about a half an inch.
• 4. Cover the area with plastic wrap and tape the edges down.
• 5. Allow this to set on the stain until it’s dry. This can take up to two days. When the paste is completely dry, use a cloth or sponge to wipe away the paste.
• 6. Rinse with clean water.
• 7. Clean the area as normal and allow it to dry.
• 8. If the stain remains, you may need to repeat steps 2-6 several times, each time removing more of the stain.

• ● Granite is very hard and scratch resistant. If you do have a scratch, it is best to have it repaired by a professional.
• ● Use coasters under all glasses to prevent stains on your granite surfaces.
• ● Avoid letting citrus or alcohol products sit on the granite surface as it can etch and dull it.
• ● Keep hot items off of granite; always use a trivet or hot pad for protection.
• ● Resealing your granite will help to preserve it and keep its shine. This is typically done approximately every 2 years.
• ● If you want to make your own pH balanced cleaner, try mixing 1 part water with 1 part alcohol (or less if preferred)
• ● If you have granite flooring, it’s best to clean it with granite cleaner or have a trained professional clean it.
• ● For daily maintenance, sweeping and dusting is usually sufficient.