Clean Granite Countertop
In the mind of most people, granite means strength and resilience. Though this is mostly true, to successfully clean granite countertops, a lot of caution most be taken. This stones can be damaged by many techniques and products perfectly safe for use on other surfaces in the kitchen. However, you do not have to be a genius to clean a granite countertop; you just need to be a little careful and observant. By following the steps outlined in this article, you are defiantly going to be satisfied with the result that comes from your effort.
The best option for granite countertop cleaning is warm water diluted with mild dish detergent. Rising and drying with microfiber cloth after using this soapy mixture will ensure the countertop is maintained. It is also crucial that you dry the counter to avoid the unpalatable water stain common with granite countertops.
However, in the rare event of a stain on your countertop, there are a couple of natural options available to take care of the stain. You can start by creating a baking soda solution or mixture to take care of embedded stains on your granite countertop. In case of a water based stain, it is advisable to use a solution of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. An oil based stain would however need baking soda and water to form a paste for through cleaning. To do this, spread your paste over the affected area and let it sit for some hours. For tougher stains, you can leave the paste on the surface overnight. You should rinse and dry after then.
In addition, when cleaning your granite countertop, it is always advisable to test out the paste on an out of the way segment of the stone in order to observe how it will react with your own counter. Never use vinegar or any other acid concentrated cleaner for your granite countertop as it has the potential of dulling and etching the stone.
Some installations of granite are usually protected by a layer of sealant to protect it from stain and other damages. If you have repeatedly attempted but failed to remove stains from your kitchen countertop, it is possible that the sealant has stopped functioning as it should. In situations like this, stained granites become almost impossible to clean, at least for those people doing it themselves. Your best option is to hire a professional to completely clean and then reseal the stone, to prevent future problem.
