Containing both ammonia and lemon, Lysol Lemon All-Purpose Cleaner isn't a good option for cleaning granite countertops. The acid in lemons is known to break down the sealant used to protect granite countertops. In addition, ammonia can scratch the surface of your granite and even start eating away at it.
Can you use an all-purpose cleaner on granite? Natural all-purpose cleaners are safe to use on granite countertops. Natural cleaners are made from plant-based ingredients that get your home clean without potentially harmful chemicals.
Hot water and dish soap should be adequate for daily sanitizing. However, if a disinfectant is desired, reach for a bottle of 70% isopropyl alcohol. Spray it onto the granite, allow to sit for three to five minutes, and then rinse with water and dry with a clean microfiber cloth. Avoid bleach or ammonia-based cleaners.
Clorox, whether it is Clorox wipes or the Multi-Purpose cleaning fluid, is not safe to use for cleaning and disinfecting your granite. The multi-purpose cleaner contains bleach, which is extremely harmful for granite and many other natural stones.
Repeated use of soapy water will cause build-up and dull your countertop's shine, even though dish soap won't permanently damage your granite. It's not a good idea to regularly use dish soap to clean granite countertops.
The acids contained in these cleaners will degrade the sealant and can leave unsightly stains on the countertop. That means those Clorox disinfecting wipes (which contain citric acid) that make cleanup so easy are actually quite bad for your granite's seal.
The best way to clean granite counters is to choose a countertop cleaner formulated for granite. Or you can make your own cleaner from mild dish soap. You'll need a soft cleaning cloth and a spray bottle.
Pour one-half cup of rubbing alcohol, one-half teaspoon of dish soap, and one-and-a-half cups of warm water into the spray bottle. The disinfecting properties of alcohol, coupled with the de-greasing powers of dish soap, will deliver a one-two punch to banish bacteria and grime from the granite surface.
Disinfectant Granite & Stone Clean & Shine. Clean, shine, & disinfect all hard, non-porous surfaces in your home. This formula kills 99.9% of Germs & Bacteria* (including human coronavirus) on sealed stone surfaces, including granite, marble, limestone, slate, and glazed tile.
Rubbing alcohol is a natural bactericide and can also kill fungus and viruses. It has no ill effects on your granite or the seal on your granite so it's an ideal way to keep countertops clean.
Dilute ¼ cup of Pine-Sol® in a gallon of warm water. Wipe down granite with a sponge or mop soaked in the solution. Scrub stubborn stains with full strength Pine-Sol®. Use a cleaning brush or plastic scrub pad rather than a harsh scouring pad, which can scratch unsealed granite.
Fancy cleaners aren't necessary for cleaning granite counters on a daily basis. You really only need three things: Warm water, mild dishwashing liquid and a microfiber cloth. Tip: Make sure your dishwashing liquid doesn't contain citrus extracts, as they're too acidic for granite countertops.
Spray your counters with isopropyl rubbing alcohol (at least 70%). Wipe them down with a clean microfiber cloth. Dry your counters with a dry microfiber cloth.
After cleaning, you'll want to polish with a product that won't leave behind residue or streaks. Simple Green Granite & Stone Polish is safe for use on granite, marble, travertine, limestone, porcelain, ceramic, quartz, Corian®*, Silestone®*, and other natural and engineered stone surfaces.
Weiman Granite & Stone Disinfecting Wipes now have the power to disinfect your sealed stone surfaces. Our new disinfecting formula kills 99.9% of germs and bacteria in 4 minutes on hard, non-porous surfaces.
Cons for Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are strong and durable as long as it receives sealing each year. If homeowners are lax in their maintenance, the porous granite can suck up oils, juice, and wine, which will be impossible to remove. Bacteria can also harbor inside granite if not sealed properly.
Cleaning your granite countertops is quite easy, and you only need a few basic items: a large, soft, non-abrasive rag or cloth, paper towels, and mild dish soap.
In addition to washing dishes, Dawn Powerwash can be used to clean sinks and hard surfaces, including stainless steel, light and dark granite, porcelain enamel, Corian solid surface and quartz.
Formula 409 Stone & Steel Cleaner is an effective option if you're looking for a wallet-friendly cleaner. This multi-tasking kitchen cleaner is pH-balanced, so it's safe for use on granite and can be used to wipe smudges from your stainless steel appliances, too.
Simply get a quality soap film remover to get the shine back. High mineral content in your water (hard water) can also result in a dulling buildup on your countertops. Most soap film removers will do the job, but you can also find combination soap buildup/mineral deposit removers that can tackle both problems.
Some experts will recommend sealing granite countertops every “6-12 months” or “3-5 years”, but there is no hard and fast rule. How Often Do You Need To Seal Granite? Granite is a unique and natural material that is extremely durable, resistant to high temperatures, and easy to clean.
Homeowners don't need to worry about damaging their countertops with everyday use because granite is quite heat resistant. Placing a hot pan on a well-maintained granite slab will not cause it to crack or weaken. Just remember that repeatedly placing a very hot pan on the same spot may cause granite to discolor.
Bar Keepers Friend Granite & Stone Cleaner & Polish is specially formulated for use on smooth, polished stone – including granite, marble, and quartz.
Mix baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and warm water in a bowl until there is a thick paste. Though commonly used as a wound disinfectant, hydrogen peroxide also works wonders on your granite tops. A solution of hydrogen peroxide removes stains without bleaching or discoloring your countertops.