How To Deep Clean Granite Counters
Granite countertops are famous for their beauty, durability, and low maintenance. While it is easy to maintain granite counters daily with regular cleaning, someone should do a deep cleaning periodically to keep them looking their best. This process involves dusting and vacuuming the surface, creating and applying a cleaning solution, and sealing the counters.
To retain their original look and feel, granite countertops require more than daily cleaning. They need periodic deep cleaning to remove dirt, grime, grease buildup, and other contaminants from the surface. You should clean granite counters carefully to avoid damage or discoloration of the stone. The following steps outline how you should go about deep cleaning your granite countertops so that they remain beautiful over time.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
The supplies required for deep cleaning granite counters include a scrubbing brush and dish soap. A scrubbing brush should be soft enough to avoid scratching the countertop’s surface but tough enough to remove dirt and debris from its textured surface. Additionally, dish soap will help break down any grease or oils lingering on the counter’s surface, making them easier to clean with a damp cloth.
Dust and Vacuum the Counters
An excellent approach to deep-clean granite counters is to start with thoroughly dusting using a feather duster or an array of soft cloths. Once you remove the dust, use a vacuum cleaner with an appropriate attachment to remove any remaining dirt and grime from cracks and crevices. To achieve optimal results, use a scrubbing technique with polishing tools such as steel wool or synthetic pads for polishing purposes to restore the luster of your countertops.
Create a Cleaning Solution
Utilizing a cleaning solution appropriate for granite surfaces will help to ensure the counters are adequately sanitized and free of dirt and residue. When preparing a solution for polishing granite, choosing an acidic cleaner that will not damage the stone is essential. These cleaners may include mild abrasives, such as baking soda, or those formulated explicitly for granite surfaces.
Adding vinegar or lemon juice may also be necessary to create a more effective cleaning solution. Additionally, when preparing a solution for deep cleaning granite countertops, it is recommended to use warm water and a non-abrasive sponge. To further prevent damage, the best practice is to test the solution in an inconspicuous area before applying it over the entire countertop surface.
Apply the Cleaning Solution
When deep-cleaning granite counters, it’s crucial to use the correct scrubbing technique to avoid damaging the stone surface. Applying a suitable cleaning solution ensures proper sanitization and removes dirt and residue. A non-abrasive cloth should be used when applying the cleaning solution, then scrubbed with a soft-bristled brush in small circular motions. Afterward, wipe away any remaining cleaner with a polishing cloth. This process should be repeated until all dirt and residue are removed from the granite countertops.
Seal the Counters
Once the cleaning process is complete, sealing the countertops is essential to protect them from future staining and damage. Sealing granite countertops with a protective sealant helps prevent staining and makes it easier to keep them looking their best. To begin, choose a sealant that is specifically designed for use on granite or other stone surfaces.
After ensuring the countertop surface has been properly cleaned, apply the sealant according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, this involves applying a thin layer with a sprayer, roller, or brush and allowing it to dry fully before adding additional coats as needed. The number of coats depends on how porous the stone is; more absorbent stones may require up to five coats of sealant, while less absorbent stones may need only two or three coats. Once all layers are applied, allow sufficient drying time before using the granite counters again.
Conclusion
Granite counters are durable and attractive countertop options that can last many years with proper care. To ensure the longevity of granite counters, it is important to deep clean them regularly. This process involves dusting and vacuuming the surface before creating and applying a cleaning solution tailored specifically to granite.
Once the cleaning solution has been applied, it is recommended to seal the countertops with a granite sealer to protect against staining and discoloration. Granite counters will remain beautiful surfaces with regular deep cleaning and sealing.
Deep cleaning your granite countertops can be easy and convenient. If you follow these steps, you can keep your counters looking new for years to come while protecting them from future damage or discoloration due to everyday use.