Granite is a sticky surface to clean. Sticky as in tricky.
Many of us dream of living in newly updated homes where
granite counter tops span the kitchen. Granite makes a beautiful statement but
can be a nightmare to clean.
Although fairly heat and scratch resistant, granite, like
glass and wood, is a sensitive material and needs its own cleaning manual. Many
people assume granite can be maintained with any all-purpose cleaner on the
market. However, these cleaners often contain harsh chemicals like ammonia that
can scratch and damage the granite’s surface.
Here’s how to safely clean your granite:
To begin with, it is not easy to see dirt on granite. That’s
why we always advise our customers to feel the surface before cleaning – and
our team members from The Maids do the same thing. Use a microfiber cloth to
dust the surface first. These cloths lift dirt instead of pushing it into the
corner and are a safe alternative to scratchy paper towels.
Follow up with a pH-balanced cleaner. Bleach, window
cleaners and most all-purpose cleaners will damage the granite’s sealant. Using
a pH-balanced detergent will eliminate streaks while removing dirt. Try mixing
a small amount of pH-balanced dish washing soap with water in a quart-sized
squirt bottle. If you want to make your granite surfaces germ free and restore
their natural beauty, try adding a ¼ cup of isopropyl rubbing alcohol to the
mixture. This inexpensive cleaner will leave them streak-free and shiny.
Finish your cleaning by running the palm of your hand over
the surface. Dirty spots easily hide within the intricate design of the stone
and can be hard to see with the naked eye. A simple palm test will alert you to
any missed spots on top of the soft and smooth surface.
A luxurious and beautiful accent to your home, granite can
stay looking good as new with prompt attention to spills and regular cleaning
to make it shine.
