How to Make a Cleaning Solution for Granite Countertops

Granite is a hard, durable stone that is also porous.

Natural stones--such as granite and marble--are a popular countertop option for kitchens of all designs and decor. Stone countertops are generally more expensive and require special care to keep them looking their best. Even though granite is a hard, durable stone, you still must clean it with the correct tools so as not to damage the countertop. If you care for your granite countertop properly, it will give you a lifetime of use.

Things You'll Need

• Container
• Water
• Rubbing alcohol
• Pure castile soap
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Wooden spoon
• Lavender essential oil
• Tea tree oil
• Clean spray bottle
• Sponge
• Distilled water
• All-purpose flour
• Small bowl
• Plastic wrap
• Masking tape
• Cloth

Instructions

General Cleaning Solution

1. Fill a container with 2 cups of cool water. Add 1/2 cup of rubbing alcohol, 1 tsp. of pure castile soap and 3/4 cup of hydrogen peroxide. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon.

2. Add 20 drops of lavender essential oil and 20 drops of tea tree oil to the mixture. Combine thoroughly with the wooden spoon.

3. Pour the mixture into a clean spray bottle. Apply the mixture to the granite countertops and wipe clean with a sponge. Repeat the process once a week to keep your countertops clean.

Removing Stains

1. Dampen the stain with distilled water.

2. Mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 2 tbsps. of hydrogen peroxide in a small bowl. Slowly add just 1 tsp. of water at a time until a thick paste forms.

3. Spread the paste onto the stain. Place plastic wrap on top of the stain and secure the edges with masking tape.

4. Let the paste dry for 24 hours. The paste needs to be completely dry to pull out the stain. Remove the plastic once the paste is dried.

5. Dampen a clean cloth with distilled water and wipe the granite countertop clean. Buff the area dry with a clean towel.

Tips & Warnings

• You can purchase pure castile soap, tea tree oil and lavender essential oil at various health stores, grocery chains and online merchants.

References

• TipNut: Homemade Granite & Marble Cleaner
• Mrs. Clean: Tips for Removing Stains On Granite
• Itty Bitty Impact: Homemade Cleaning Solutions