How to Clean Kitchen Countertops Made of Granite

Keep granite countertops clean to maintain their beauty.

With a little bit of care and preventive maintenance, granite countertops can look good as new for a long time. You can clean granite countertops much like you would any other countertop surface. The key is to prevent damage from happening in the first place. That way, cleaning granite countertops becomes a simple process that requires few special tools.

Things You'll Need

• Soft cloth
• Coasters
• Trivets and hot pads
• Cutting boards
• Stone cleaner spray
• Plain water
• Dish soap

Instructions

1. Wipe up any spills immediately with a soft, clean cloth. Liquids such as tomato sauce, orange juice and even cooking oil can damage granite with pitting or staining.

2. Use coasters under all cans, bottles or drink glasses. Use trivets and hot pads underneath all hot plates, pans and dishes. While granite can withstand heat from a hot pan, the pan itself may have debris underneath which may mar the surface of the granite by scraping or scratching. Avoid this by simply using a hot pad or trivet.

3. Use cutting boards to protect the surface of the granite and prevent cutting and marring.

4. Clean with a specially formulated stone cleaner in either a spray or liquid formula. Apply to the surface with a soft cloth, and polish until shiny. Use the stone cleaner on a weekly basis.

5. Apply a diluted solution of dish soap and water to the surface with a sponge. Rinse with clear water. Avoid excessive use of dish soap, as this can cause a film to develop on the surface of the granite. This method is recommended only for quick clean up.

6. Wipe the surface daily with plain water and a sponge for everyday cleaning.

References

• Granite Counter Top Care