Stop Cleaning Your Granite This Way
In the wide world of cleaning products, many of them are versatile, but even the most versatile products are not suitable for cleaning granite. You can’t use, for example , Bar Keepers Friend or the poorly named ” all-purpose” cleaner . So what can you use to avoid damaging the stone you spent a small fortune installing in your kitchen? Here’s what you need to know.
Why is granite so hard to clean?
Granite is porous, so it absorbs liquids (although not as much as marble, which we’ll talk about another time), so not only can spills get dirty, but if you use the wrong chemicals on it, they can soak in. and cause long-term damage. It’s also prone to scratches, so you’ll have to use something soft to clean it. As hard and durable as granite is, it cannot withstand steel wool or other abrasive materials. Granite usually seals well, but this sealant can also be worn away with acidic or alkaline chemicals such as vinegar or bleach.
How can granite be cleaned?
So, how do you clean something that won’t tolerate vinegar, all-purpose cleaner, or bleach? Soap and water, according to HGTV . Add dish soap and warm water to a soft sponge to avoid scratching and make sure you wipe off all the foam as the surface is porous. You can use a razor blade with light, even pressure to remove any seriously stuck debris.
A paste of baking soda and water is also good for removing stains, according to HGTV, but you still need to use a soft cloth and will likely take a few applications to remove stains. You can apply the paste to hard-to-reach areas, cover it with plastic wrap, seal the edges, and leave it to dry, which can take a few days. Wipe it with a soft cloth and warm water.
If the stains get harder and harder to wipe off over time, it’s probably time to reseal the granite, according to Molly Maid . You should do this every four years or so as the sealant wears off over time.
Avoid stains as much as possible by wiping off any stains as soon as they appear. The porous nature of granite dictates that the longer something is on it, the deeper the stain will eat into. No matter what, dry your countertop completely every time it gets wet.