Can you use Clorox wipes on sealed granite?

Author: Frederik Koepp  |  Last update: Tuesday, November 7, 2023

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.

Can you use Lysol wipes on sealed granite?

You should not use Lysol on your granite countertops, backsplashes or vanity tops. The cleaner contains harsh ingredients that can cause your sealer to lose its effectiveness. In specific, scents such as lemon contain citric acid, so you need to keep away from those.

How do you clean sealed granite countertops?

Although your granite may be properly sealed, a sealant is designed to repel stains rather than completely prevent them. Always wipe up spills as they happen by blotting them, so they don't spread. Then, clean the area with water and mild dish soap and rinse with clean water several times.

What do you clean sealed granite with?

Frequent use of vinegar, Windex or bleach will dull the granite and weaken the sealant. Instead, a little soap and water should do the trick. Add dish soap and warm water to a sponge, get a good lather and begin cleaning. Avoid using abrasive pads, as granite can be scratched.

What not to use on sealed granite?

If it beads up, you have a secure seal. If after a few minutes the water has soaked into the granite, then it's time to reseal the stone. DON'T: Use harsh or abrasive cleaners and sponges. Windex; acidic cleaners, like vinegar, lemon, lime; or anything with ammonia or bleach should be avoided.

How to Clean Granite Countertops and Remove Stains!

How long does granite stay sealed?

The truth is that most (but not all) granite countertops need to be sealed. There is a simple test to see if you need to seal the countertop you're choosing and determine when your countertop needs to be resealed (typically every 5-7 years, depending on the sealant).

Is Dawn dish soap safe for granite?

Do use a mild detergent soap. Regular Dawn or other dish soaps work well. Do use a soft cloth. No special tools needed here: a soft cloth will help remove all grime and dirt without damaging countertops.

How often do you need to reseal granite?

Note: Some experts will recommend sealing granite countertops every “6-12 months” or “3-5 years”, but there is no hard and fast rule.

What permanently stains granite?

Watch out for red wine rings if you leave your glass on the countertop, or a leaking carton of fresh blueberries. Some other culprits include coffee, tomato juice, grape juice, mustard, citrus products, toothpaste, and anything with chemicals.

How do you disinfect unsealed granite?

You may not think dish soap and hot water are enough to thoroughly clean your granite countertop but they are actually completely fine for sanitizing. If you still aren't convinced a 50:50 solution of water and isopropyl alcohol is a stronger solution suitable to be sprayed on granite.

Can granite countertops be permanently sealed?

The answer is yes, you can permanently seal your granite and that will give you a completely maintenance-free countertop.

How often do you need to clean and seal granite countertops?

You most likely need to reseal your granite countertops at least once a year. However, these factors could affect how often you need to apply a new protective layer to your stone surfaces: Type of granite: Your one-of-a-kind granite countertops have unique maintenance requirements based on their porosity.

Does sealing granite make it shiny?

Resealing granite prevents permanent damage to the stone and restores the original, factory shine. There are many sealers to choose from, but your granite countertops retailer should recommend the best product for your exact variety of stone.

What wipes are safe on granite?

Miracle Brands granite wipes contain formulated oils that are tough on dirt and grime but safe for stone surfaces, these easy-to-use wipes let you clean and polish counters with a streak-free shine you'll love!

What wipes are safe for granite countertops?

Weiman Granite & Stone Disinfecting Wipes wipe up tough messes while leaving a streak-free shine. Clean, shine and disinfect countertops, floors, showers, sinks and more in kitchens, bathrooms, and other household areas.

What is the best disinfectant to use on granite?

The Best Way to Clean Granite Countertops

For increased disinfecting power, add isopropyl alcohol to the mix. Isopropyl or rubbing alcohol provides an excellent solution for killing bacteria and viruses like COVID-19 while preserving the finish and shine of your countertops.

What makes granite shine again?

Granite polishing powder: Also called stone polishing compound, powder offers a quick and easy way to put a fresh gleam on granite while removing minor scratches and stains. If using it dry, choose a buff polishing pad to work the polish over the surface of the granite in a steady, circular pattern.

How do you get water rings out of granite?

While it's not generally wise to use abrasive cleaners on your natural stone countertops, you can safely treat stubborn hard water stains with a paste of baking soda and water. Simply apply it to the affected area and scrub it with a soft-bristled brush, then rinse with water and dry with a microfiber cloth.

Does sealing granite prevent stains?

Granite is a porous and siliceous surface, making it susceptible to permanent damage from staining and etching. Sealers work to solve this issue by reducing your surface's absorption for a prolonged period of time. This helps resist stains.

Can you reseal granite yourself?

Apply sealant to countertops

Use a spray bottle, cloth, or brush to apply it. The entire surface should be damp, but not soaked. Give the sealant time to absorb into the stone. On average, it should take about 20 minutes, but take care to read the directions on the bottle of sealant for specifics.

Can you put hot pans on granite?

Granite is 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.

What happens if you don't reseal granite?

Unsealed granite counters are susceptible to stains from food, drinks, and other spills. Since granite is porous, is can quickly absorb food and liquids, which is then hard to get up. Sealing your countertops is the best way to avoid stains like this.

Can you clean granite with paper towels?

Once you've sprayed down your countertop, wipe it clean with a dish cloth, terrycloth towel, or clean microfiber cloth. Some people use paper towels, but because paper towels come in many different types, some of which work better than others, we find it best to use something a little more consistent.

Is it OK to use Windex on granite?

Windex contains ingredients that can permanently damage the granite. While the most common damage done by Windex is dulling the shine of the countertops, it can also cause pitting.

What do you clean granite with daily?

If you're looking to get your granite clean and shiny in a pinch, Rapinchuk's favorite daily cleaning formula is combining 1.5 cups water, 2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol, and 0.25 teaspoons castile or dish soap. “Pour in a spray bottle, spray on counters, and wipe clean,” she advises, with no rinsing necessary.

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