How to Clean Granite Countertops and Make Them Shine

Give your granite countertops a new look in just a few easy steps.

Granite is one of the strongest countertop materials on the market. It stands up to everyday wear and tear and is scratch-resistant. It also heats up nicely. Granite is a porous material, so it will absorb liquids. However, as long as you apply sealant once a year, your granite countertops should last for years.

Keeping granite countertops clean is just as important as sealing them.

Below we share the steps on how to make your countertop shine with a DIY granite cleaner.

1. Clear the counter

Start by removing everything from the counter. Such as a kitchen table or stove. Once the counter is clear of bulky items, use a dry sponge to brush away any debris.

2. Scrub the surface

Since granite countertops have sealants to keep them shiny and stain-resistant, you want to avoid using anything too acidic or alkaline on your granite. Regular use of vinegar, Windex, or bleach can darken the granite and weaken the sealant. Instead, a little soap and water should do the trick. Add dish soap and warm water to the sponge, lather and start cleaning. Avoid abrasive pads as they may scratch the granite. Scrub your countertop in an "S" shape from back to front. If there is a very stubborn or sticky spill, you may need to scrub more.

3. Remove stubborn stains

If scrubbing doesn't work, the area may need a razor blade. Use a razor blade to scrape any goo or buildup on the countertop. Don't worry, you won't be touching the surface. Just make sure the entire edge of the blade rests on the counter. Once satisfied, rinse the sponge and wipe off the lather. You may need to rinse the sponge, cycle it and wipe off any remaining lather a few times. Make sure your counter doesn't have any large puddles or leftover foam. NOTE: Wear gloves when handling sharp objects.

4. Disinfect surfaces

In a spray bottle, make a 50/50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water. A glass of alcohol and a glass of water will do. Spray the entire counter with the water/alcohol mixture and wait five minutes. After five minutes, use a clean rag to wipe moisture from the counter in an "S" shape from back to front. After completing these steps, your counter should be cleaned and disinfected.

5. Add gloss

To make the granite shine, pour a little cooking oil onto a soft cleaning cloth and wipe over the countertop. Lightly polish it. This makes the counter a bit smudge proof and gives it a sheen.

Even if you know how to properly clean your countertops, your granite will need to be resealed regularly. Normal wear and tear can wear down the sealant, making the counter dull and susceptible to stains. Knowing how to clean granite countertops will make the sealant last and keep the countertop beautiful for years to come.