Let’s face it – one of the things that add vibrancy to our homes are our countertops, especially if they are made of natural stone like granite.
Granite countertops, being igneous by nature, are durable and sleek at the same time. It can handle different forms of work on them. Despite this, however, always remember that they are also porous and they demand the right kind of care. If you recently bought a granite countertop for your home, you may think that cleaning it with just about any surface cleaner would do the trick to maintain its health and sheen. But tread carefully and hold your horses!
Research or ask advice from a professional first on how to clean granite countertops before doing so. This is because blindly using just about any kind of product on it may have consequences (and most likely not the ones you will appreciate). With all this being said, it is important to bear in mind that not all cleaning products are created equal. For you to be able to know the best ways to clean granite countertops in 2019, you need to first identify the best products you can use.
What cleaning products can you use?
As a rule of thumb, always use a pH-neutral cleaning product on your granite countertops. If you do not have one, it is always safe to use mild soap and water as an alternative. Also, take note that it is always best to use a non-abrasive sponge when cleaning to avoid etching. On the other hand, stay away from granite’s mortal enemies – either very acidic or highly alkaline cleansers – unless you are willing to risk scratching or dulling its glossy surface.
Meanwhile, if your mild soap and water solution is not doing the trick, here are some other things you can use to clean your granite countertops.
1. Specially formulated cleansers for granite
There are a lot of different brands that you can buy that are specifically made for granite countertops. For example, you can use those from huge manufacturers like Granite Gold. If you need to deeply clean them, this is definitely the best way to go. Avoid excessive application though as these may negatively impact your countertops in the long run.
2. Dishwashing liquid soap
In times when you only need to deal with simple spills or you just want to do quick wipes, dishwashing soap will suffice. Do so with a soft sponge or a washcloth. Act with caution though because this can leave white stains, especially on darker colored granite countertops, in the long run. Avoid using dishwashing liquid soap as your go-to, everyday cleaning solution for your countertops.
3. Plastic scraper for stubborn food residues
Dried food on granite countertops is not only unattractive to look at but can also be difficult to remove. As tempting as it may seem, keep your hands away from that scrubbing pad or metal scrubber. Yes, there are easier ways to do things, but they are all not necessarily the best. For hard-to-remove food stains or dried food, gently using a plastic scraper will work wonders. With a combination of patience and warm soapy water, your granite countertop will look spotless in no time.
How to Keep the Germs at Bay
Cleaning your countertop’s surface does not mean that it’s free from bacteria. Like any other household object, it needs to be disinfected too. This way you do not only have granite countertops that are spotless but also sanitary. Disinfecting granite countertops is not a tough job to do. All you need is to wipe the surface with isopropyl alcohol combined with water and mild dishwashing soap.
Specifically, here are the following steps for granite countertop disinfection:
- Add one measure of isopropyl alcohol to three measures of water. Stir in a little bit of dishwashing liquid afterward.
- Place the mixture in a spray container and shake it until the liquids are well-blended.
- Spray the mixture onto the surface of your granite countertop. Leave it for 10 minutes.
- Clean the remaining liquid with a cloth or non-abrasive sponge.
Et voila! You already have a deeply cleaned granite countertop surface.
How to Get Rid of Stains
Stains can go deeper on your granite countertop’s surface than expected which can cause some panic. While they are not too evident on dark-colored granite, they may stand out on lighter-colored ones. But don’t fret for it is not the end yet! This is because stains that have settled beneath the surface can be drawn out by special cleaning materials or chemicals.
In this unfortunate instance, what can normally be used are poultice or other chemicals. Poultice, in particular, extracts a stain out of granite without necessarily doing damage to it. You can either make your own poultice or buy a ready-to-use one. The kind of poultice that should be applied on the surface and the length of time you should let it sit depends on the stain that is on your countertop.
Usually, instructions are included on a store-bought poultice. The application is easy as it only needs to be mixed into paste form then smeared on the stained area. Place a cling wrap on it and leave it for 1 hour. Afterward, you may wipe this away. If the stain is really tough, you can usually perform the process again until it goes away.
When the how-to’s don’t work, call the professionals!
Prevention is better than cure, so make sure to choose the right ones. At Precision Stone Design, we can give you what you truly need! Our granite countertops are made of eco-friendly, superior quality materials and best of all, cleaning them is fuss-free. We are conveniently located in the Chicagoland area and we service within 50 miles radius of our facility in Elk Grove Village, IL. We are a direct fabricator and installer of kitchen countertops, vanities, jacuzzi surrounds, fireplace surrounds, and custom designs.
Life can get very hectic at times, which is why stressing over tedious cleaning or the maintenance of granite countertops may be the last thing that you need. Keep yourself away from stressful cleanups from the onset by opting for expertly fabricated countertops in all the right ways. Let us make it easy for you. Contact us at 312-42-STONE (312-42-0987) or e-mail us at sales@precisionstonedesigns.com and we’ll give you a free quote on your preferred easy-to-clean countertops!
