One of the most widely used materials for countertops is granite. They can be a beautiful and durable addition to any kitchen or bathroom. With its natural look and incredible durability, installing granite countertops Melbourne FL can sometimes come with a high cost. That’s why it’s no surprise that people want to learn how to keep it looking its best for as long as possible.
Fortunately, cleaning granite is not difficult. With just a little bit of care and cleaning, your granite countertops will stay looking beautiful and shiny in your kitchen or bathroom for years to come. But to find the right cleaning products, it is important to understand how granite reacts to different chemicals. Abrasive and acidic cleaners can damage the surface of the granite and cause it to dull over time.
Therefore, when choosing a cleaner for your granite countertops, it is important to select one that is specifically designed for use on granite. These cleaners are usually neutral pH and will not damage the granite-like an acidic cleaner can.
In addition to using the right cleaner, it is also important to use the right cleaning techniques. When cleaning granite, always avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub pads. These can scratch the surface of the granite and make it more difficult to keep clean in the future. Instead, use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the countertop.
This guide will teach you everything you need to know about cleaning granite countertops, including what products to use and how to avoid damaging your stone.
What Are the Best Homemade Cleaners for Granite?
You might be surprised but the best cleaners for granite can be found in your kitchen pantry. While commercial granite cleaners are effective in cleaning granite countertops, homemade cleaners are good alternatives if you want to stay economical and avoid using harsh chemicals.
DIY Homemade Cleaner #1
Things you will need:
Spray bottle / any bottle for storage
1/4 cup rubbing alcohol
2 cups water
3-4 drops of Castile soap or dish soap
Optional: 2-3 drops of essential oil
Instructions:
1. Mix the rubbing alcohol, water, dish soap or Castile soap, and essential oil in your spray bottle.
2. Give it a good shake and spray it on your granite countertops.
Note: Using dish soap and water only for cleaning is fine, but it will often leave streaks that can look unsightly. If you want to remove streaks or keep your granite countertops streak-free, adding rubbing alcohol is essential.
For tougher stains on granite countertops, this next homemade cleaner is extremely effective in removing stains.
DIY Homemade Cleaner #2
Things you will need:
Spray bottle
Clean and soft cloth
Baking soda
Water
Plastic wrap
Instructions:
1. As much as possible, blot up the stains from the surface of your granite countertop.
2. Spray water on the stain.
3. Mix baking soda and water and create a paste with a nice thick consistency.
4. Apply the paste on the stain.
5. Next, cover the baking soda and water paste with plastic wrap.
6. Set for 24 hours before removing using water and a clean and soft cloth.
How Do I Get My Granite to Shine Again?
Granite can produce a natural shine after it has been initially polished at a fabrication facility. This is primarily caused by the stone’s quartz and mica content. In addition, fabricators also put sealant on granite countertops during the polishing process. Your granite will have an amazing shine if it has a polished finish.
Over time, your granite will lose some of its shine and may even become dull. You can bring back the luster to your granite by polishing it with a high-quality granite polish or with some homemade cleaners.
Granite Polish Products
Using granite polish products is the best way to achieve a shiny finish on your granite. You will find different granite polish options in the market. It is important to take note that different products work differently. Because granite is a natural stone, not one granite countertop is the same. Make sure to read the instructions that come with the granite polish to ensure it works best with your granite countertop.
Sealant Products
Another way of keeping your granite countertops shining is to use a sealant. Sealing is key to protecting your granite and keeping it looking new for years to come. A good quality sealer will create a barrier on the surface of your granite that will repel water and oil. It is important to reapply the sealer every few months to ensure that your granite countertops are protected. Your granite countertop installers near me can also help you with your options if you want to apply granite sealers.
Homemade Granite Polish
A simple granite homemade cleaner is also one of the best and most cost-effective ways to make your granite countertops shine again. Cleaning your granite countertops often is going to keep them looking shiny and new. Moreover, the best way to clean your granite countertops is to use a microfiber cloth. This will help to avoid any scratches on your granite countertop.
What Cleaners Are Safe for Granite Countertops?
The key to choosing the safest cleaners for your granite countertops is to make sure that the ingredients in the cleaner are not abrasive. You should also make sure that the cleaners are not acidic or alkaline. Other than homemade cleaners, some brands you might want to consider include:
- Dr. Bronner’s All-Purpose Cleaner
- Seventh Generation Granite & Stone Cleaner
- Caldrea Countertop Spray
- Method Daily Granite Cleaner
Conclusion
Granite countertops are one of the most durable and beautiful surfaces you can have in your home. But just because granite is one of the toughest materials you can have in your kitchen or bathroom doesn’t mean you should skip making the effort to exercise caution. With proper care, your granite countertops will last a lifetime.
If you’re looking for granite countertop installers near me, make sure to contact a highly-skilled granite countertops Melbourne FL professional for expert countertop installation.