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Homeowners gush over granite for kitchen counters, bathroom vanity tops, and other surfaces for its ability to handle heat, resist everyday scratches, and—of course—look great. But granite’s porous surface can accumulate dirt, grime, and bacteria that can sully its appearance and deteriorate the layer of clear sealant that protects it from chipping and discoloration. Not just any cleaner will do the trick, either.
Alas, most “all-purpose” cleaners sold in stores are too harsh for this permeable stone. While specially formulated commercial cleansers are available at home centers (for $5 to $15), you can save cash and avoid chemicals by whipping up your own homemade granite cleaner with non-toxic, non-damaging ingredients you no doubt already have on hand. Follow this recipe to make your own all-natural cleaner and put it to use in minutes. It’s ideal for cleaning granite, and a number of other household surfaces that need gentle care.
Tools & Materials
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- Essential oil
- Microfiber cloth (or microfiber mop)
Step 1: Combine rubbing alcohol, water, and dish soap in a spray bottle.
Pour 1/2 cup of rubbing alcohol, 1/2 teaspoon of dish soap, and 1 1/2 cups of warm water into the spray bottle.
The disinfecting properties of alcohol, coupled with the degreasing powers of dish soap, will deliver a one-two punch to banish bacteria and grime from the granite surface.
Step 2: Add essential oil, if desired.
If desired, add 10 to 20 drops of essential oil to the spray bottle to infuse the homemade granite cleaner with a subtle fragrance that will deodorize the granite surface. Basil, lavender, and cinnamon scents are all excellent options. While acidic liquids like lemon juice can corrode sealant and make the underlying granite vulnerable to chips, citrus-scented essential oil is pH-neutral and completely safe to use on this porous stone.
Step 3: Shake the mixture in the spray bottle.
Secure the spray head back onto the bottle, then gently shake the bottle a few times to combine the contents. Label the bottle and store it in a dry location away from pets and children, or put it to use immediately to clean surfaces around the home.
How to Use Homemade Granite Cleaner
This DIY granite cleaner can be used on granite and other stone surfaces around the home, including:
- Granite countertops: Wipe down the surface with a clean microfiber cloth (avoid abrasive scrubbers like steel wool, which can scratch). Generously spray the homemade cleaner onto the entire countertop and wipe it down with a microfiber cloth. If you still see buildup or stains on the surface, spray additional cleanser on the problem area and use a more vigorous circular motion to loosen and lift the grime. Once clean, quickly wipe up any remaining homemade granite cleaner with a microfiber cloth (allowing it to dry may result in minor streaks).
- Granite flooring: The same cleaning technique as described above works for floors, but use a microfiber mop instead of a cloth to save time and keep backaches at bay.
- Granite backsplashes: Use the same cleaning technique above to remove grit and grease from granite backsplashes, but avoid spraying the homemade granite cleaner on finished wood surrounding a backsplash (e.g. a kitchen cabinets and wood trim). Rubbing alcohol can erode lacquer or paint on the wood’s surface.
- Granite fireplace surrounds: Clear soot and fingerprints from a fireplace surround using the same technique used for cleaning countertops.
- Marble and other stone surfaces: Like granite, these materials are acid-averse, but they won’t be harmed by this homemade granite cleaner thanks to its neutral pH. Clean in the same methods described above.
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