A popular choice for many homeowners, granite countertops are both elegant and durable. Many countertop materials can be cleaned with traditional cleansers that can be found at the store, but granite needs to be cared for in a particular way to avoid staining or long term damage. Here we outline some helpful tips on how to clean granite countertops.

Do Not Clean Granite with Traditional Cleaners

The most common issue is using regular household cleaning products to clean granite- DON’T. Many items may include acids, vinegars or other abrasive chemicals that could degrade the granite sealer and etch your granite.

Here is a list of cleaners that you shouldn’t use:

  • Generic Cleaning Products
  • Bleach
  • Glass Cleaners
  • Degreasers
  • Vinegar
  • Ammonia
  • Citrus Cleaners-Lemon, Orange
  • Bathroom Tub and Tile Cleaners
  • Grout Cleaners

Instead, Use a Stone Care Based Cleaner

For regular, day-to-day cleaning, it’s as easy as soap and water with a sponge or soft cloth. For a deeper clean, you can turn to a stone-based cleaner. Cleaning granite requires a cleaner that is not abrasive. Try to look for cleaners that are designed specifically for stone-based surfaces, have low acidity and are PH neutral.

Caring for your granite is simple, cheap and takes little time out of your day.

Cleaning List for Cleaning Your Granite Countertop

There are a number of simple items to keep under your sink for cleaning your granite countertops. If you have the following items on hand, you should be able to take care of most stains and blemishes.

  • Dish Soap
  • Water
  • Sponge
  • Isopropyl Alcohol
  • Hydrogen Peroxide
  • Spray Bottle
  • Clean Cloth or Towel
  • Baking Soda
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Razor Blade
  • Gloves

After reading how to clean granite countertops, person cleans granite countertops with soap, water and sponge.

Removing Stains from Granite Countertops

If you are cleaning up spills on your granite countertops in a timely manner, you should not have to worry about stains. However, life isn’t always that convenient. After a spill, you might get distracted, forget to clean it up and then a few days later, notice a blotch on your beautiful kitchen countertop. Granite stains can be tricky, but not if you know how to attack them correctly.

  1. Baking soda: Depending on the type of stain, baking soda will likely be able to clean it up. For oil-based stains such as olive oil, butter and salad dressings, mix the baking soda with water to form a paste. For water-based stains like wine, juice and coffee, mix baking soda with hydrogen peroxide.
  2. Apply: Take the baking soda paste and apply it to the stained area. Gently scrub with a soft cloth or sponge and then rinse. This step may need to be repeated.
  3. Use a Razor Blade: For your own safety, wear gloves for this step. If scrubbing doesn’t work the first time, you may need to scrape away some of the gunk before applying the baking soda mixture again. Rest the razor blade flat on the countertop and break up the excess grime. If you hold the blade flat against the countertop, you won’t scratch the granite.
  4. Extreme Measures: If repeated attempts to clean the stain don’t work, there is a final option. Apply the baking soda paste again. This time, take plastic wrap, cover the stained area with the paste and tape the edges of the wrap down. Leave overnight or even a few days. The stain remover should have worked its magic by then. Simply rinse and then wipe with your soft cloth.
  5. Disinfect: Fill a spray bottle with a 50/50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water. Spray the counter with the mixture and wait 5 minutes. Wipe with your clean dish towel in an “S” motion.
  6. Job Well Done!

Use Normal Protective Measures

With granite being so durable, many use that as an excuse to be less focused on keeping the granite protected. If you spill something, blot it up with a paper towel or soft cloth. Use coasters, particularly when using glasses, bottles, and cans. If you take a hot pot off the stove, be sure to place a

Trivet or pad underneath the pot if you plan on putting it back down on your countertop.

This one may seem like common sense, but please DO NOT use your beautiful granite countertop as a cutting board. Not only could this potentially etch the surface of your countertop, but the granite will actually dull and damage your knives.

Seal Your Granite Countertop Frequently

Granite, like other stones, are naturally porous which makes them susceptible to stains. Using a sealant on your granite countertops is a very good way to keep your granite protected from harm and keep it looking beautiful.

Buy a non-toxic PH balanced sealer. Depending on the sealer you use, you may want to repeat every 6 months to assure protection and shine. Lighter granite stains are easier than dark granite so you may want to repeat more often. Simply clean the surface, apply the sealant and look at the beauty of your countertop.

Don’t Neglect Your Granite

With a busy schedule, it may be easy to forget to take care of your granite countertops. However, bathrooms and kitchens are critical rooms in your home both as a host and for someone who is interested in selling their home. Caring for your granite is simple, cheap and takes little time out of your day. Do yourself a favor and choose not to neglect your granite countertops.

Looking to Install Granite Countertops in Your Home?

Affordable Granite Concepts is a premier granite installation and fabrication company located in Orlando, Florida. We offer one of the biggest selections of granite, quartz, and natural stone to the Orlando area at our 12,000 square foot showroom. We prioritize satisfaction, quality, and timeliness. Our ultra-fast granite fabrication process for custom granite countertops takes only 3-business days. If you’re in Central Florida, you can count on us to make your vision come to life at the best price!

Latest Articles

Elevate Your Kitchen Design: 5 Creative Ways to Use Granite

When it comes to kitchen design, granite has long been considered the epitome of elegance and durability. Its timeless appeal and practicality make it a favorite choice for homeowners looking to elevate their culinary spaces. But beyond just countertops, there are many ways to incorporate granite into your kitchen, adding both style and functionality. In... View Article

read more

Elevate Your Orlando Home with Exquisite Granite Countertops With Affordable Granite Concepts’ Trusted Installation Services

In the dynamic landscape of Orlando home design, unlock the potential of your space with the enduring charm of granite countertops. As your premier Orlando granite countertop installer, we understand the pivotal role these surfaces, granite countertops, play in defining both the aesthetics and functionality of your home. Join us as we explore the timeless... View Article

read more

Signs Your Granite Countertops Need Professional Attention

Granite countertops are not just a stylish addition to your kitchen; they are a durable and timeless investment. However, like any other valuable asset, they require proper care and attention to maintain their pristine condition. Affordable Granite Concepts, with over 15 years of expertise in granite services in Orlando and Central Florida, understands the intricacies... View Article

read more

Customer testimonials

Gregory DavidGregory David
23:01 12 Aug 22
Went way over and above to take great care of us with our new granite kitchen tops! Andriza worked wonderfully with us! Her installers were great and even installed my under mount sink I bought! Highly recommend this team for any granite or quartz countertops. I couldn't be more pleased with them.
Paul DouillettePaul Douillette
22:31 04 Aug 22
Recently I remodeled my entire kitchen 8/02/22. I used Affordable Concepts for all my Quartz. I must admit that at the beginning there was a communication problem that was resolved. With the help of Walter and my account executive Sylvio all problems were resolved to my satisfaction. The fabricators were all respectful, dedicated and hardworking and the results are beautiful. Thank you all.
Alex DiBartolomeoAlex DiBartolomeo
01:58 13 Apr 22
From start to finish Walter and his team were beyond helpful. Helping pick out the perfect granite to handling every aspect of the install. Installers were kind, courteous and unbelievably professional. This company understands what customer service is all about and how to go above and beyond for the customer. If you are looking to update or remodel, Affordable Granite is the best company to go with.
Chris KraemerChris Kraemer
22:11 18 Nov 21
They did a great job every step of the way! From estimating all the way through installation. Great company!
ANKIT PATELANKIT PATEL
18:51 02 Oct 21
Amazing quality and customer service! Lisandra went above and beyond even for our smaller scale project! We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. We will definitely be back for any future stone work we need! Thanks again!
js_loader