From intense appeal and a durability that stands the test of time, it is easy to see why so many homeowners, builders, and designers install granite countertops. This natural stone is available in a variety of colors or patterns and can be installed in different lengths, thicknesses, and with different edges, helping you complement your personality and interior design style. Of course, protecting the look and durability of your granite is important if you want them to be a great investment. Here are a few tips for cleaning your new granite counters.

Clean

Visit a grocery store or discount retailer and you will probably see numerous products labeled for cleaning granite. These products are effective in most cases, but they are not actually necessary because a simple solution containing liquid dish soap and water will be sufficient.

For a basic cleaning that can be used each day, create a bottle of this soapy solution and store it under your kitchen sink.

Fill a spray bottle with water and add a few drops of liquid dish soap. Shake the bottle to mix the soap and water before each use. Then, spray a generous amount of the soapy solution onto the granite. Use a microfiber cloth, dish rag, or paper towels to wipe the counter clean.

Disinfectant

In some instances, a more involved cleaning or disinfecting will be necessary. For example, if raw meat or fish has been placed on your countertop or grease has splattered on a section of the granite, consider using rubbing alcohol and water. This solution will not only clean the surface, but also disinfect it, killing any harmful bacteria and germs.

In a spray bottle, combine ½ cup of water with ½ cup of rubbing alcohol. Shake to mix before spraying the solution on a microfiber cloth. Use the damp cloth to wipe down your granite, cleaning and disinfecting the surface with ease.

Shine

Over time, your countertops may lose some of its shine and luster. Preventing the dullness and restoring the shine is possible using a common household ingredient – cooking oil.

After cleaning the granite with the above soapy solution, wipe it dry so there is no moisture left standing on the countertop. Apply a generous amount of cooking oil to a microfiber cloth and move it across the granite in circular motions, buffing away any dullness on the stone's surface.

Continue adding oil to the cloth, buffing across the entire countertop surface until you begin noticing an improvement in the surface's shine. Contact a company, like Artisan Granite & Marble, for more help.

Share