Tools and Materials
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How to Clean Granite Countertops
To spot-clean your countertop, use a mixture of dish soap and water.
How to Spot-Clean Granite Countertops
Learn how to spot-clean your granite countertops in four easy steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Cleaner
Create a mixture of mild dish soap and water. Dip a cleaning cloth into the mixture and wring out the cloth until it’s damp.
Step 2: Scrub the Counter
Wipe the countertop in a circular motion, applying extra pressure to any dried-on pieces of food. Repeat as necessary.
Step 3: Wipe the Counter
Wipe away any dish soap residue with a cleaning cloth, microfiber cloth or paper towel.
Step 4: Dry the Counter
Use another cleaning cloth or paper towel to dry the damp area.
To quickly clean up any messes, keep a spray bottle filled with the dish soap mixture under the sink.
How to Deep-Clean Granite Countertops
For tough grime and buildup, use a granite countertop cleaner. Here are some general steps, but follow the instructions on the bottle for the best results.
Step 1: Apply the Cleaner
Apply your counter cleaner or granite stain remover to the countertop.
Step 2: Let It Soak
Let the cleaner soak for a couple of minutes so it can penetrate the surface.
Step 3: Wipe the Counter
Wipe away the cleaner with a cleaning cloth, microfiber cloth or paper towel.
What to Avoid
When you’re cleaning your countertop, it’s important to keep the following in mind:
- Avoid generic cleaners such as bleach, common household cleaners and degreasers.
- Bathroom cleaners usually contain some sort of abrasive component and aren’t food safe, so don’t use them.