What is a good disinfectant for granite countertops?

Author: Kirstin McKenzie I  |  Last update: Tuesday, December 19, 2023

One simple disinfecting solution that easily destroys bacteria is a two ingredient combination of dish washing detergent and good old isopropyl alcohol. All that is required is a few drops of the detergent and four tablespoons of the alcohol to create an concoction that will clean granite countertops quite efficiently.

What disinfectant is safe for granite countertops?

A well-sealed granite countertop is relatively impervious to bacteria. Hot water and dish soap should be adequate for daily sanitizing. However, if a disinfectant is desired, reach for a bottle of 70% isopropyl alcohol.

Is Lysol disinfectant spray safe for granite countertops?

Containing both ammonia and lemon, Lysol Lemon All-Purpose Cleaner isn't a good option for cleaning granite countertops.

What is the best cleaner to use on 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.

Can you use antibacterial cleaner on granite?

You have two different options when it comes to cleaning granite countertops. The first one involves mixing isopropyl alcohol and water and using it to wipe the surface. You can also use antibacterial soap and water to clean the surface.

How to Clean Granite Countertops

Is it OK to use Clorox wipes on granite countertops?

Clorox and Lysol sprays and wipes are convenient, but they are not safe for granite countertops. They rarely contain bleach, but they do generally contain citric acid to help remove soap scum. Avoid using bleach as well.

What not to use on granite?

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 do you disinfect granite without damaging it?

Here's how to disinfect granite countertops safely. Mix one part water and one part rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. Spray it on the countertop and let the disinfectant sit for five minutes. Rinse with a damp cloth and buff the granite with a dry microfiber cloth to restore the shine.

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.

Can you use Lysol disinfecting wipes on granite countertops?

Lysol. 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.

What DIY all purpose cleaner is safe for granite?

Pour one-half cup of rubbing alcohol, one-half teaspoon of dish soap, and one-and-a-half cups of warm water into the spray bottle. The disinfecting properties of alcohol, coupled with the de-greasing powers of dish soap, will deliver a one-two punch to banish bacteria and grime from the granite surface.

Can I use Windex on granite?

As good as a cleaner for windows and other glass surfaces, Windex has some elements on its compositions that can permanently damage granite when used for a long time. For that reason, you should never use Windex on granite.

Can you use Clorox disinfecting spray on granite?

Answer. Yes, Clorox® Disinfecting Bleach is safe for sealed granite countertops. Remember, bleach should never be used full strength for cleaning any surface — it should always be diluted with water first. For disinfecting countertops, use a solution of ⅓ cup Clorox® Disinfecting Bleach per gallon of water.

Is Simple Green safe for granite?

Some cleaners are too abrasive or acidic for granite. Never use vinegar, glass cleaner, or bleach to clean your countertops, as these harsh substances will dull the granite and weaken the sealant. For best results, use Simple Green Granite & Stone Cleaner to ensure your granite counters have been properly cleaned.

Is Microban safe for granite?

Safety of Microban 24 products

Use on a variety of hard, non-food-contact and soft surfaces, including plastic, upholstery, painted wood, sealed wood, painted surfaces, washable fabric, vinyl, stainless steel, aluminum, glazed porcelain, glazed ceramic, sealed granite and marble, Formica® and Corian®.

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.

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.

How should I clean my granite countertop?

Clean your natural stone countertop with a mild kitchen cleaner.
  1. Make a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. ...
  2. Dip a soft cloth into the solution and wring it out until just damp.
  3. Wipe the countertop in small circular motions with light to medium pressure.
  4. If you encounter bits of dried-on food, apply more pressure.

Can baking soda damage granite?

How to Remove Tough Stains From Granite Surfaces. Baking soda is a really wonderful ingredient that is extremely useful for removing stains from granite without damaging the surface with harsh and abrasive chemicals. Step 1: For cleaning oil-based stains, mix baking soda and water to form a paste.

Does vinegar damage granite countertops?

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.

How often do you need to seal granite countertops?

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.

How do you disinfect countertops?

How to Disinfect Countertops with Vinegar
  1. In a clean spray bottle, combine equal parts white vinegar and water.
  2. Wet the surface lightly with a damp rag to clean the worst of the mess.
  3. Spray on your vinegar solution.
  4. Wait five minutes.
  5. Use a clean, damp rag to rinse the countertop.

Can I use soft scrub on granite?

Thankfully, Soft Scrub has products that are tough on stains, yet gentle on your most delicate kitchen countertops. Granite and Marble – Specially designed to remove stubborn stains without damaging high-end surfaces, Soft Scrub's Multi-Surface Gel restores granite and marble countertops to their original shine.

Can I use 409 on granite?

Unfortunately, Formula 409 contains many substances that can damage the surface of your granite.

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