Use a pH-neutral granite cleaning solution and work it slowly and methodically across the countertop. Using anything too basic or acidic will weaken the sealant, so avoid solutions like bleach or vinegar. Some soap and water will suffice, along with a soft sponge. Also, avoid using abrasive pads for scrubbing.
After scraping away the residue and cleaning the stone with water, you can use a polishing powder to restore the shine. These polishing products are safe for most stone. You will need to reseal the stone after completing this process. Another option for small areas is Stone Scrub or Acetone to remove residue.
To put a shine on your granite, pour a little cooking oil on a soft cleaning cloth and wipe it across the countertop. Buff it gently. This makes the counter a little bit stain-resistant and gives it a glossy shine. Even if you know how to clean countertops correctly, your granite will need to be resealed periodically.
Poultice Treatments
For more stubborn stains, a poultice made from baking soda and water can be applied. Spread the paste over the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and leave it for 24-48 hours before cleaning it off. This can help draw out the stain from the granite.
Polishing the Granite
Use a soft, clean cloth or a polishing pad to buff the surface in circolar motions, working on small sections at a time. Continue until the entire surface has been polished and exhibits a consistent shine.
Use a pH-neutral granite cleaning solution and work it slowly and methodically across the countertop. Using anything too basic or acidic will weaken the sealant, so avoid solutions like bleach or vinegar. Some soap and water will suffice, along with a soft sponge. Also, avoid using abrasive pads for scrubbing.
We do not recommend using vinegar when cleaning granite surfaces. While it is certainly a naturally strong stone and can withstand high temps, the acid in vinegar causes etching, which makes the surface dull and damaged. Over time, it will lose its sheen and natural beauty as the sealant wears away.
Granite can be polished with dry powder or wet polishing paste. There's no clear choice here … professionals are divided on the issue of which is better. Both techniques are effective.
Let its non-bleach cleaning ingredients do the work. For difficult stains, apply Bar Keepers Friend liquid or make a paste with Bar Keepers Friend powder and let it remain on the surface but for no longer than one minute (don't let it dry, or risk discoloration!) Rub gently as needed, rinse thoroughly.
Use a gentle cleaner specifically designed for granite to avoid damage. Avoid using abrasive or acidic cleaners that can dull the surface or cause etching. Wipe up spills promptly to prevent staining. Consider using natural cleaning methods, such as vinegar or baking soda, for a safer and eco-friendly option.
You can use a commercial polishing compound or make your own using baking soda and water. Apply your polish with a solid cloth using rub down your countertop using circular motions. Once you have applied the polish, start wiping away any excess with a clean cloth.
Clorox wipes contain cleaning agents, including alcohol and bleach, that are effective at disinfecting surfaces. However, these ingredients are harsh on granite because they can strip away its protective sealant over time.
Some of the cheapest ways to change granite countertops without replacing them include painting, honing, or changing the finish, covering them with tile or laminate, and using countertop contact paper.
Mix vinegar and baking soda to create a paste. Apply the paste to the rust-stained surface and let it sit for 30 minutes. Scrub the area with a sponge or steel wool to remove the rust. Rinse the surface thoroughly with water and dry it completely.
Jokes apart, it is expected that with proper care, the lifespan of a granite countertop can be up to 30 years or more. In fact, it can even outlive your house. However, that is just an arbitrary number that can increase or decrease depending on how you maintain granite.
If your granite dullness is light, a granite-polishing powder can be enough to fix it, since it can remove shallow scratches, stains, and other residues that can be the cause for granite to look faded and dull.
Mix two or three tablespoons of water with enough baking soda to make a thick paste, and apply thinly to the stain. Work the stain out with a soft cloth using circular motions, and clean the area well with fresh water to remove any residue. Finally, dry your granite to prevent water marks from forming.
Vinegar is made up of acids that can severely harm your granite. Even if it is diluted, vinegar may still leave acids on your granite countertops. This can cause your natural stone countertops to etch. You can tell that your granite countertops have begun to etch by seeing a small ring or some sign of a watermark.
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.
Hydrogen peroxide can be effective for removing certain types of stains on granite countertops, but it should be used with caution. It is important to test on a small, inconspicuous area first and to avoid using it too frequently, as it can potentially damage the sealant on the granite over time.
Is Dawn dish soap safe for granite? Yes, Dawn dish soap is safe to use to clean granite countertops.
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.
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.