How To Clean Granite Counter Tops

The presence of granite counter tops can add an immediate sense of warmth,  style and elegance to any kitchen but along with their positive attributes comes the requirement to know how to clean and maintain them properly. Neglected or abused granite countertops can show signs of wear quickly despite their innate hardness, as scratches, stains and a loss of luster can make granite become unattractive before it's time. Armed with nothing more than a small bit of knowledge and some good old-fashioned common sense you can assure that your granite countertops will look beautiful for a lifetime.


The first tip for cleaning granite countertops is to realize that while granite is incredibly hard and stain resistant it has soft mineral properties as well that can be harmed by harsh cleaners. Additionally, many granite countertops have been polished to a high sheen during the manufacturing process and this glossy shine can be removed rather easily by using the wrong cleaning agent. To top these issues off, granite countertops can be scratched which provides an opportunity for dirt to amass in the crevices that have been created. This is the point where common sense applies to keeping your granite countertops in good shape by not sliding items on them or using them as a cutting board. This also applies to being careful not to place foods or liquids that are naturally high in acidic content on your granite countertop - lemon, orange and other citrus juices can cause damage quickly.

To clean your granite countertops simply take a wet sponge and place a few drops of degreasing dish detergent on it and then wipe the countertop thoroughly. Next, rinse the granite countertop using warm water and then dry the countertop using a soft cotton cloth. Keep a spray bottle filled with one-third rubbing alcohol and two-thirds water handy, spraying the granite countertops every few days to help disinfect and retain a good shine.

Beyond the aforementioned steps for cleaning granite countertops it is a very good idea to occasionally take a soft cloth and hand polish the granite countertops once a month or so to make an impact on the shine. Lastly, as per manufacturers directions most granite countertops requires that a sealant be reapplied every year or two to protect your investment. In the case of a severe stain seek professional assistance - the money is well spent when compared to the cost of new granite countertops.