Pure acetone will not chemically damage or etch natural granite. However, it can strip away the protective sealant, which can temporarily darken the stone or leave it vulnerable to stains.
Acetone can help to remove some of the pesky stains that can affect your granite. You should keep in mind that you need to take extra care when using it. While you may have it in your home already, you should never use nail polish remover on your natural stone.
If you want to know how to get the stains out of granite or disinfect it, keep 12% hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol on hand.
The best cleanser for granite countertops is a gentle dish soap such as Dawn or Ivory. Be sure to check the label on your dish soap for any harmful ingredients, especially citrus or essential oils.
Don't use WD-40 on natural stone
Because WD-40 is good for lots of cleaning tasks, you might be tempted to try it on stone tile or countertops. But natural stone is porous, and you shouldn't use WD-40 to clean it—WD-40 can soak into the surface of the stone and stain it.
The short answer: No. Vinegar is acidic and will slowly break down your granite's protective sealer with repeated use. Occasional contact won't cause immediate damage, but vinegar should never be your go-to cleaner for granite countertops.
Those crystals are the foundation of granite's reflective quality. The most important minerals responsible for sparkle are quartz and mica. Quartz crystals are naturally glassy and reflective. Mica, especially muscovite and biotite, produces tiny reflective flakes that shimmer under light.
Key Takeaways
Granite Counter Maintenance
I would not recommend harsh chemicals on it. Instead, clean your counters with a neutral, mild, vegetable oil-based cleaner such as our "Murphy's Oil Soap®." Synthetic scrubbing pads can be used on granite surfaces.
An effective solution contains equal parts water and isopropyl alcohol. Simply mix the ingredients together and spray them onto the granite surface. Let it sit for three to five minutes, rinse the area dry, and promptly dry it with a clean microfiber cloth.
Baking soda poultice
One of the most effective ways to lift stains from granite countertops is by using a simple DIY poultice. A poultice works by pulling the stain out of the stone, and the best part is that you can make one at home with just a few common items. Materials needed: Baking soda.
So, if you use 1 teaspoon of Dawn, you will need 2 teaspoons of peroxide. Or 1/2 cup of Dawn and 1 cup of peroxide.
Granite countertops are sensitive to acidic substances that can etch and dull the surface. Cleaners containing vinegar, lemon, or ammonia should be avoided due to their potential to damage the stone.
Granite Countertops
For tougher stains, such as oil or wine, create a baking soda paste or use a granite-specific stain remover. Apply the paste to the stained area, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it sit for 24–48 hours to draw out the stain. Rinse with warm water and dry with a soft towel.
One of the most common sources of damage to granite counters is household cleaning products. Many conventional cleaners, particularly those containing bleach, ammonia, vinegar, or other acidic substances, can etch the surface of granite over time.
Luckily, everything you'll need to clean your hard surfaces can already be found in your home: Concentrated dish soap that's tough on stains and grease but gentle on stainless steel, granite, and glassware, like Dawn® Platinum Plus Powerwash Dish Spray. Soft cloth or sponge. Water.
Rock Doctor suggests that you avoid the following on your granite countertops:
When creating a cleaning solution for tile floors using ½ cup of baking soda and a bucket of warm water, essential oils can be included to give the mixture a nice scent." But, there's another benefit to using your favorite essential oil to leave behind a better smell after mopping.
Since granite countertops have a sealant on them to keep them shiny and stain-resistant, you want to avoid using anything too acidic or basic on the granite. 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.
If you are asking, “Is it safe to use Clorox Wipes on granite countertops?”, the answer is no, it is not safe. Clorox Wipes contain strong chemicals that can harm the granite, remove its protective layer, and cause it to appear dull or damaged. Granite is a natural stone that needs gentle care.
For daily cleaning, use warm water and mild dish soap with a soft cloth regularly. Avoid vinegar, bleach, or acidic substances as they'll remove the protective sealant over time. Sealing frequency varies by granite type. Test by dropping water on the surface.
The enduring appeal of granite countertops continues to lead the way in home design as we move into 2026. Beloved for their strength, elegance, and individuality, these surfaces are as functional as they are beautiful.
What is the most expensive granite? Overall, you will find that the most expensive types of stone are red, purple, and blue granite. Various types of blue granite, like Azul Aran and Blue Bahia granite, are in the high-end of the price range. The most expensive type of granite is Van Gogh granite.
One of the biggest reasons people think granite is no longer popular is the rise of newer materials like quartz. As trends shift, some assume that older materials are no longer relevant. But granite isn't outdated—it's evolving.