Introduction
According to Mark Roemer Oakland, granite is one of the best materials for both bathroom and kitchen countertops. It is sturdy, stands up to regular wear and tear, and also manages to resist intense heat without incurring any damage. Let’s check out how to clean granite countertops and make them sparkle like new ones.
The Details
Put everything out of the way – Before you start cleaning the countertop, you need to remove everything that may come your way. That includes appliances, keepsakes, crockery, and all other items that don’t belong there. Transfer them to a different surface or a different room if there’s not enough space in the kitchen. After the countertop is clear of both large and small items, you can begin the scrubbing action.
Start scrubbing – Granite countertops are porous unlike popular belief and that’s why they come with a sealant on them. You don’t want to use anything too acidic or corrosive that may burn through that sealant and expose the granite. That’s why household cleaning products like Windex, bleach, or vinegar can’t be used.
Instead, get a bit of liquid soap and water to clean the surface. Develop a good lather and begin scrubbing. Don’t use abrasive sponges or pads that have sharp or very hard edges. You don’t want to leave any scratch on the expensive granite. Scrub the countertop in an “S” shape from the top to bottom. Slow and steady scrubbing would get the job done. If there’s a sticky or stubborn residue, you can be a bit more aggressive in scrubbing.
Remove stains – Regular scrubbing should be able to remove most stains, marks, and residues. Otherwise, you need to adopt slightly more comprehensive methods. If there’s a sticky residue, use a razor blade or spatula to get rid of it. Do it with caution so that you don’t leave any scratches.
Next, create a paste of baking soda and peroxide and leave it on the stained area. After that, cover the paste with plastic wrap and tape down the edges. Allow the paste to harden over a few days. When it hardens, use a dampened cloth to wipe the paste away. Rinse it off with clean warm water.
Disinfect and apply shine – After the stains and marks are removed, you need to disinfect the granite. Spray the entire counter with a mixture of water and isopropyl alcohol in a 1:1 ratio. After that, wipe it all clean with a microfiber cloth. After disinfecting the surface, use a bit of any neutral cooking oil to buff the surface. Buff it gently till the surface develops a glossy shine. If it has been too long, you may need to get your granite surface resealed.
Conclusion
Mark Roemer Oakland suggests that you use the above-mentioned tips to clean your granite countertop and maintain it in brand new condition for decades. There’s no need to use harsh chemicals or toxic ingredients. You just need a bit of time and plenty of patience.
