HOW TO CLEAN GRANITE COUNTERTOPS
Publish Time:2019-04-26 Click rate:1502
Granite has been one of the most popular materials for counters in kitchens and baths since the early 2000s. Granite is everywhere. It isn't as porous as marble, so it is less prone to soaking up oils, spills and stains.
While granite is a very hard surface and less porous than marble, unsealed or weakly sealed granite will soak up oils, spills, and stains. To check whether your granite is sealed, leave a few drops of water on the surface. If it beads up, you have a secure seal. If after a few minutes the water has soaked into the granite, then it's time to reseal the stone.
Here's how to clean a granite countertop:
What you'll need: dish soap (any brand will do)/paper towels/hot water
First, wipe the counter surface with warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. You can also use a 50:50 solution of isopropyl alcohol and water. Don't use vinegar, Windex or bleach on granite. Frequent uses of these acidic substances will dull the granite and weaken the sealant. Don't use abrasive cleaner or pads, either, because granite can be scratched.
The good news: You don't need specialty cleaners for granite. It's OK to use those products, but you're paying for a product you don't need. Mild soap and hot water will do just fine.
Knowing how to clean granite countertops means knowing how to remove stains. To remove stains from granite, make a paste of baking soda and water. Gently scrub the spot with the paste and a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly. It may take several tries to get out a tough stain. For an extremely tough stain, put the paste on the spot, cover with plastic wrap and tape down the edges. Let it sit until the paste dries. This can take a couple of days. When the paste is dry, use a soft cloth to wipe away the paste. Rinse with warm water.
Granite is extremely resistant to bacteria, an important consideration for kitchen counters in particular. And the granite in countertops has been sealed to make it stain-resistant. To keep the glossy shine for which it's prized, you need to clean granite counters regularly and carefully.
