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.
The best all purpose cleaner for granite is a mix of isopropyl alcohol, water (only needed to dilute the alcohol to 70%), and a few drops dish soap. If you're using the alcohol at a 70% solution, then it also disinfects the countertops. This is what's recommended by the manufacturer of my granite countertops.
Cleaning Granite Countertops
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.
Yes, Dawn dish soap is safe to use to clean granite countertops. Not only is it safe to use on your cooking and food prep surfaces, but it is also a great degreaser and can remove stubborn grease stains. Be sure to mix it with water so the concentration isn't as strong, as you don't need to use more than a few drops.
Cooking oil
Any typical oil will work, for example vegetable or olive oil. Apply a small amount of oil to a soft, clean cloth, and buff the granite using circular motions. Don't forget to polish the edges of your counter! Oil will give your granite a nice shine, and also help it repel water.
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.
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.
Typically, granite should be resealed every 12 to 18 months. Nevertheless, there are some other factors that come into play when determining how often to reseal granite countertops. For example, a lighter colored granite will need to be resealed more often because it is typically more porous.
Daily granite countertop care is as easy as cleaning with a gentle cleanser like Murphy's Oil Soap or mild dishwashing liquid. If needed you can use a synthetic scrubbing pad to clean your granite counter. With the proper maintenance, granite countertops stay new-looking for a long time.
Preferences vary, and on the whole, demand wasn't enough for us to continue making it.
Clean and disinfect granite like an expert. Step 1 Brush or sweep away dust, dirt or food crumbs. Step 2 Dilute ⅛ cup of Pine-Sol® in a gallon of warm water. Step 3 Wipe down granite with a sponge or mop soaked in the solution.
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.
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.
Mineral Oil: Mineral oil is a common and natural option for sealing granite countertops.
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.
For Water Based Finishes
Cleaners such as Pledge and Murphy's Oil Soap are not recommended because they leave a dull residue on the finish. Water based surfaces may be cleaned with a damp cloth or General Finishes Orange Oil.
Lysol contains some pretty aggressive chemicals, including citric acid and something called quaternary ammonium compounds. These ingredients might be great for killing germs, but they're too harsh for your granite.
If left unsealed, granite countertops can become vulnerable to stains and damage over time. Granite, being a porous material, naturally absorbs liquids. Without proper sealing, liquids spilled in the kitchen, such as wine, oil, coffee, or food can seep into the pores, leaving behind stubborn stains.
This soft, malleable material can trap dirt within its layers and, as it accumulates, can give the surface a yellow hue. This issue is commonly reported when someone believes their granite counters need repolishing. Wear on surfaces is typically caused by grinding sand or dirt underfoot.
Quartz is actually harder than granite and thus, more durable. In fact, quartz is nearly indestructible, and because it isn't porous like granite, it's easy to keep your countertops relatively bacteria-free. Be careful with cooking pans though: Quartz can be damaged by excessive heat, so use heating pads at all times.
Your local hardware stores (and probably grocery stores) sell polish for granite. It depends on the level of work is needed to bring it back. But in the most severe cases, a polish and a buffing tool will bring it back. If it's a minor dulling, just a polish and some soft cloths will do the trick.
Tenax Ager is the product to use when you are trying to achieve the "wet" effect. You can get that wet look indoors or outdoors since Ager can be used in both environments. This oil based color and grain enhancer is also a sealer that protects the stone form staining and from graffiti.
Over time, various factors like improper cleaning, hard water deposits, and lack of regolar polishing can contribute to the doll appearance of granite countertops. It's essential to identify these signs early on to take the necessary steps to restore your granite's lustrous shine.