Home Cleaning Tips & Advice

How to clean granite countertops

Granite countertops look so much nicer than the type of countertop you probably grew up with as a kid. But granite also requires special care because of its unique surface.

First, don't forget that granite does stain! So be sure to wipe up any spills as soon as possible. But fortunately, it is very hard, meaning it is very hard to scratch the surface!

Use stone cleaner to clean the countertop. It comes in either a spray form or as handy wipes. Follow manufacturers instructions, but usually it involves spraying, leaving for thirty seconds, then scrubbing with a sponge. You then dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. Stone cleaners are readily available in hardware stores, and more grocery stores and larger box stores are carrying stone cleaners (sometimes called stone soap) now.

Can you use soap and water to clean? Yes, but you will soon discover that it will leave a soapy buildup, leaving you with granite countertops that don't look nearly as nice. And it is important to not use anything corrosive or any abraisive cleaners, such as Comet.

Don't forget you generally need to reseal granite every couple of years to keep it looking great.