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How to Care for and Clean Granite Countertops

Member
By kristara
User-Submitted Article
(13 Ratings)
Care for and Clean Granite Countertops
Care for and Clean Granite Countertops
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Granite countertops are a beautiful addition to any home. They need to be properly cared for and cleaned to maintain your investment. Granite countertops have many benefits besides their beauty. Granite is scratch resistant and heat resistant. Granite does need to be sealed to protect its surface.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    If you have a spill on your granite countertop be sure to blot it up immediately. Do not wipe up spills because this will just spread the potential stain.

  2. Step 2

    To clean a granite countertop use a stone soap. Stone soap can be found in most home improvement and hardware stores.

  3. Step 3

    To remove coffee or tea stains from your granite countertop use hydrogen peroxide and 2 or 3 drops household ammonia.

  4. Step 4

    If you get an oily stain on your countertop such as milk, oil, grease make a paste of flour and hydrogen peroxide over the stain, cover with plastic wrap and let sit for 8 hours or so. Remove the plastic wrap and scrape away flour mixture with a wooden or flexible plastic utensil to prevent scratching. This mixture will draw the stain to the surface. Repeat if necessary.

  5. Step 5

    If you get an ink stain on your granite countertop, safely clean with acetone (nail polish remover).

  6. Step 6

    Never use anything abrasive like steel wool, scouring pads or scouring powders on your granite countertop. Do not use vinegar, lemon or orange as cleaners, bathroom, tub & tile or grout cleaners the acid can etch your granite countertops.

Tips & Warnings
  • Always dry your granite countertops with a soft clean cloth after cleaning.
  • Reseal granite countertops every year or 2 depending on use.
  • Never try to fix scratches yourself, call a professional.
  • For particularly stubborn stains call a professional.

Comments  

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karileighk said

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on 7/11/2009 Never heard of stone soap before. Thanks.

MommyTeach said

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on 6/17/2009 Interesting, I have been using detergent water- and it has been fine but these are great tips. 5*

shenandoah said

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on 6/17/2009 Thanks for the tips! I will save this and use it, I'm sure.

Derren said

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on 6/16/2009 Amazing information on how to care for and clean granite countertops

Flag This Comment

on 6/14/2009 Good tips on cleaning granite counter tops. 5*

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