What Should I Know About Granite Cleaning?

Granite cleaning is an easy task, making it popular for countertops and floors. When cleaning granite, it is important to remember not to use an abrasive cleaner. The clear coating on granite countertops and floors can become scratched and dulled.

Granite cleaning on countertops involves using a sink full of warm water and dish washing liquid. Make sure the dishing washing liquid doesn't contain bleach, or a bleach alternative. Soak a dish cloth in the warm, soapy water and ring it out. Wipe down the counters thoroughly to remove all residue.

Rinse the dish cloth in hot water and wipe down the granite countertops again, to remove any remaining soap. Check that the countertops don't have a dull finish, as that means that there is still soap on them. Rinse the cloth and wipe them down again.

Dry the granite countertops with a microfiber cloth to prevent streaking or water spots. If the countertops are looking dull, use a granite cleaner to restore the natural finish. These are available at any home supply store in the cleaning products aisle.

If the granite countertop is stained, use talc, or powdered whiting, and hydrogen peroxide to remove it. Mix the talc with the hydrogen peroxide, according to the package directions, so that it forms a thick paste. Spread the paste on the stain and cover with plastic wrap. Tape the plastic wrap down and allow the paste to dry. Wipe the dried paste away with a wet sponge.

Granite cleaning of floors involves a similar process. Start the process by removing all the loose dirt with a dry dust mop. Some debris can scratch the floor during mopping, if not removed first.

Fill the sink with warm, soapy water, using a mild dish detergent. Mop the corners of the floor first, making sure to remove all the embedded dirt. Rinse the mop in hot water.

Dip the mop in the warm, soapy water again and mop the rest of the floor. Effective granite cleaning of floors involves rinsing the mop often. When not rinsed often, the dirty mop will dull the floor.

Granite cleaning is ineffective if the floor isn't dried afterward. Use a clean, dry rag mop to dry the floor. If unavailable, use a microfiber cloth. The same stain removal process for countertops can be used on the floor.

Granite cleaning is necessary to maintain the beauty of this polished stone. Never allow the juice of citrus fruits and vegetables to remain on the countertops or floor, as it will dull the natural finish. Never place hot pots and pans on the countertop. Take care of the granite surfaces and their beauty will last a lifetime.