You finally picked out your beautiful granite counter top. Now you’ll want to make sure it stays as beautiful as the day you bought it. Though it’s not as porous as marble, it is still a porous material so you’ll want to ensure that stains don’t sink in.
Here are tips on how to get your granite sparkling clean and keep it that way.
Make Sure It Is Sealed
You’ll want to make sure that stains can’t penetrate your countertop. The best way to do that is to make sure your countertop is properly sealed. Drop a few drops of water on top of the surface. If it beads up, you’re good. If it soaks in after a few minutes, you’re going to need to re-seal it.
It is recommended that you get your countertops professionally resealed every two to four years. Cleaning your granite countertop properly will ensure that the sealant lasts longer.
Avoid These Cleansers
Avoid harsh and abrasive cleaners and sponges that can damage and scratch your granite. This includes Windex and acidic cleaners like vinegar, lemon, lime, ammonia and bleach. These types of cleaners can dull and weaken your sealant.
Wipe Up Spills ASAP
Leaving spills for too long on your countertop can stain it. Make sure you wipe up spills as soon as possible.
Use Warm Water and Soap
The best way to clean your granite countertop is with a nubby or microfiber washcloth with some warm water and a mild or gentle dish soap.
Use Alcohol and Water to Disinfect
Though soap and water should be adequate for daily sanitizing, if you need something a little bit stronger you can use a mixture of half water and half 91% isopropyl alcohol. Put it in a spray bottle and spray it on your counter top and leave it for 3 to 5 minutes before wiping it down.
Remove Stains With Baking Soda Paste
Mix some baking soda and water until it forms a paste. Place the paste over the stain and scrub it gently with a soft cloth, then rinse. You may have to repeat this process to fully remove the stain.
If it’s an extra tough spot, you can leave the paste on the spot and cover it with plastic wrap and tape down the edges. Leave it there until the paste dries, even if it takes a few day. Once it’s dry wipe it away with your cloth and rinse with some warm water.
Shine It Up
If you need to shine your granite countertop, pour some cooking oil on a soft cloth and wipe your countertop down with it and buff gently. This will even help to prevent stains.
Special Cleaner
You can also buy a cleaner that is specifically made for cleaning and polishing granite countertops. However, if you’re not into using chemicals or store-bought products, you can use the soap or stain removal method above.
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
