One way to get rid of the cloudy residue is to use a baking soda paste. Another option is to use a commercial granite polish and a buffing pad to remove the haze.
Mix a cleaning solution of 1 cup of cool water and 1 cup of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol in a spray bottle. Lightly spritz the granite and wipe down with a microfiber cloth. Allow to air dry.
To polish a granite tabletop, clean it first with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Use a granite-specific stone polish or a mixture of water and isopropyl alcohol (1:1), apply to the surface, and buff with a clean, dry cloth in circular motions to restore shine.
You may be able to get rid of water stains early on by simply applying a gentle cleanser (natural stone cleaner or dish soap and water) and scrubbing with a sponge or a soft-bristled brush, then rinsing and drying the area thoroughly.
Make a mixture of three parts baking soda to one part warm water, and combine until smooth. Apply a thin layer of the paste to your granite surface, and gently buff with a clean cloth. Wipe away any residue with a damp cloth and dry the granite for a smooth, shiny surface.
First, try Soft Scrub Oxi. This is a very mild cleaner that can avoid concern of damaging the surface; however, it may not be strong enough to remove the stain. Barkeeper's Friend has been shown to be very effective in combating cloudy blotches. For a less abrasive cleaner, try Bar Keeper's Friend soft cream.
Over time substances can build up on the stone's surface. For example, hard water deposits, food debris, calcium deposits, grease and soap residue can build up on the surface over the course of years, and you probably won't notice.
Another excellent compound is Tenax Granite Polishing Powder. Tenax is a leader in the stone-care industry and this polish is highly rated by users. We also use this compound in our workshop and factory and on job sites to produce a fresh glow on granite flooring, countertops and, in particular, wall panels.
Cleaning Granite Countertops
In a spray bottle, create a 50/50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water. One cup alcohol and one cup water should do it.
All you need to do is apply a little baking soda to the stain, wait for three to five minutes and wipe it off with your soft cloth and water. If the stain remains, reapply the baking soda on the stain, cover it with plastic paper and leave it for 12 hours. Chances are high the stains will get off when you rewash it.
Do Not Use On Granite or Marble. If you have soft surface countertops like granite or marble, step away from the magic eraser. You can use them on laminate, Corian, quartz, and other solid surface countertops, but do a spot check.
You can identify hard water stains by their appearance. They appear as chalky white residue or light-colored spots on your granite surface.
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.
Fizzy soft drinks such as cola are also acidic and contain strong colourings. Oils: spilt cooking oil from pots and pans can leave permanent stains which are difficult to remove. Some foods also contain oils, so remember to use chopping boards or mats for food preparation.
Rock Doctor Granite and Quartz Polish is the best polishing agent for granite and other natural stone surfaces. If you are looking for a product that both keeps your granite's glossy finish intact and protects the stone from moisture, look no further than the Rock Doctor Granite and Quartz Polish.
If stubborn stains persist after following the above techniques, try using baking soda to remove any remaining marks, says Sokolowski. Mix baking soda and water until a paste forms. Gently spread the paste over the stain. Let the paste sit overnight.
With polishing powder
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.
Additionally, applying a stone polish to granite will create a glossy finish. Rock Doctor's Granite and Quartz Polish are ideal for creating the glossy look that most homeowners want from their granite countertops. When applied frequently, a granite polish will help keep granite countertops glossy.
Though using a granite sealer can help you maintain the original finish to your stone, it won't necessarily restore the shine to the countertops. A stone restoration professional can fix this issue for you.
Dilute household bleach with warm water according to the directions on the bleach. Wipe the countertops down with the solution using a reusable cleaning cloth. Rinse with warm water and a fresh cloth.
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.
1. Weiman Granite and Stone Cleaner. As a leading provider of cleaning products, Weiman delivers excellence with its Granite and Stone Cleaner. Loved for its streak-free formula and glass-like finish, this cleaner is perfect for achieving smooth, shiny countertops.