Granite stone countertops are a beautiful addition to any home, combining elegance and durability. Yet, keeping these stunning surfaces clean sometimes feels overwhelming, especially with so many cleaning products on the market.
Many homeowners may not realize that natural methods can effectively clean granite, providing a safe and eco-friendly option. With the right blend of simple ingredients, you’ll maintain the shine and integrity of your Utah granite without harsh chemicals.
In this article, we’ll explore effective and easy ways to clean granite countertops using natural solutions, ensuring that your granite stone countertops stay looking their best for years to come.
Essential benefits of natural cleaning methods
Cleaning your home naturally has many benefits. First, natural cleaning is safe. Many store-bought cleaners contain harsh chemicals that may irritate the skin or eyes. By using gentle ingredients, like vinegar or baking soda, you protect your family and pets.
Second, natural cleaning is good for the environment. Ingredients like lemon juice and essential oils don’t harm nature, unlike chemical cleaners that pollute water and air.
Third, natural methods often save money. Most natural ingredients are things you already have at home. That means fewer trips to the store and more money in your pocket.
Using natural cleaning methods makes your home healthier. You can feel good knowing your sparkling house doesn’t come at a cost to your family’s health or the environment.
Ingredients for homemade granite cleaners
Making your own homemade granite cleaner is a smart way to care for your Utah granite countertops. Many of the ingredients may already be in your kitchen.
These natural substances can help make your granite stone countertops shine without using harsh chemicals. However, it’s important to be careful with the materials you use to avoid damaging your beautiful granite surfaces.
Vinegar
Vinegar is a popular and powerful natural cleaner. Many people use vinegar to clean surfaces like floors and windows.
However, vinegar should not be used on granite kitchen countertops because it is acidic and may eat away at the seal, leading to dullness and potential damage over time. So, even though it shines on other surfaces well, it’s best to keep it away from your granite surfaces.
For cleaning granite countertops, it is better to use gentle and pH-balanced ingredients. Instead of vinegar, consider using a mix of mild dish soap and water. This ensures your granite remains in top-notch condition, preserving both its shine and the granite sealer applied to it.
Baking soda
Baking soda is one of the most useful items in any home. It acts as a gentle abrasive, ideal for cleaning granite surfaces without scratching them. When dealing with tough spots on your granite countertop, a baking soda paste can help.
To make the paste, mix baking soda with a little water until it becomes thick. Apply the paste to the stain or spill, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it away with a soft cloth or sponge.
For extra power, you can cover the paste with plastic wrap and leave it overnight. This gives the baking soda more time to work on stubborn stains without harming your Utah granite stone countertops.
Essential oils
Essential oils are great for adding freshness to your cleaning routine. Many oils, like lemon or lavender, have natural cleaning properties and leave a pleasant scent. While cleaning granite countertops, adding a few drops of essential oil to your dish soap and water mixture will make your kitchen smell lovely.
To add essential oils to your granite cleaner, mix a few drops of your favorite essential oil with mild dish soap and water. Use this mixture to wipe down the granite surface.
Using essential oils ensures that your granite surfaces look and smell good. They provide a delightful fragrance without chemicals and are safe for families and pets.
By choosing these natural ingredients, you can clean your granite countertops safely and effectively. Remember to stick to gentle, non-acidic cleaners to protect your granite’s shine for years to come.
Step-by-step recipes for DIY granite cleaners
Granite countertops are popular in many kitchens because of their beauty and durability. Whether you live in Utah or anywhere else, maintaining the shine and elegance of your granite stone countertops is easy with natural methods.
Let’s explore some simple, effective ways to clean and polish your granite kitchen countertops, using ingredients you might already have at home. Follow these step-by-step recipes to keep your granite surfaces looking amazing.
Basic granite cleaner recipe
Keeping your granite countertop clean doesn’t have to be complicated — you can make a basic cleaner with a few ingredients. You will need the following:
- 2 cups of warm water
- 1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol or vodka
- 5 drops of gentle dish soap
- 10 drops of essential oil (like lavender or lemon for a fresh scent)
Instructions:
- Mix the water and rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. This helps disinfect the surface without harming the stone.
- Add the dish soap and essential oils. The soap removes dirt, and the oils leave a pleasant smell.
- Shake the bottle gently to mix all ingredients well.
- Spray the solution on your granite kitchen countertops.
- Wipe it off with a soft cloth or a sponge. Avoid using anything rough that might scratch.
Repeat this process regularly to keep your granite surfaces clean and shiny. This natural granite cleaner is safe and will help maintain the stone’s beauty without damaging the granite sealer.
Deep cleaning solution for stains
Sometimes, your granite countertops might have stubborn stains that need more attention. For a deeper clean, use a slightly stronger solution. Let’s tackle those tough spots:
You will need ½ cup of baking soda and water.
- Make a paste by mixing baking soda with enough water to create a thick consistency.
- Apply this paste directly onto the stained area.
- Cover the paste with plastic wrap and let it sit overnight. The baking soda will help draw out the stain.
- In the morning, remove the plastic wrap and gently wipe away the paste with a damp cloth.
- Rinse with clean water and dry the area thoroughly.
This deep cleaning method is perfect for removing those stubborn stains without harsh chemicals. It’s a natural way to keep your granite stone countertops looking their best.
Polish for a shiny finish
After cleaning granite countertops, polishing them can help restore their natural shine. A homemade polish is easy to make and will give your kitchen a dazzling finish. Follow this simple recipe to polish your granite.
You will need:
- ¼ cup of cooking oil (like vegetable or olive oil)
- A few drops of essential oil (optional, for scent)
Instructions:
- Pour the cooking oil into a small bowl. The oil acts as a natural polish, enhancing the stone’s shine.
- Add a few drops of your chosen essential oil for a pleasant aroma.
- Dip a soft cloth into the oil mixture and gently rub it onto the granite surfaces in small circles.
- Buff the countertop with another clean, dry cloth until you achieve the desired shine.
Using this polish regularly will keep your granite countertop looking shiny and help protect it from everyday wear and tear.
Get your granite from Intermountain Stone & Marble
Ready to bring the natural beauty of granite countertops into your home with a stunning, lasting shine? At Intermountain Stone & Marble, we provide only the finest granite selections, ideal for achieving a luxurious and durable finish that enhances any kitchen or bathroom.
Our team is here to guide you through our extensive collection and help you find the perfect granite that shines and withstands the test of time.
Contact Intermountain Stone & Marble today to discover how our granite countertops will transform your space into a naturally elegant haven.
