Granite countertops are prized for their durability, but that durability only holds up if they are cleaned and maintained the right way. At Granite Busters, we fabricate and install granite, quartz, marble, and quartzite surfaces across the St. Louis area, and the question we hear most often after installation day is simple: what is the safest way to clean this?
Here is what we recommend.
Daily Cleaning
For everyday spills and routine cleaning, warm water, a few drops of mild dish soap, and a soft microfiber cloth are all you need. Wipe the surface, then dry it with a clean cloth to prevent water spots and streaking. Avoid leaving standing water, especially around the sink edge or seams.
What to Avoid
Granite is tough, but its sealant is not invincible. Steer clear of these common mistakes:
- Acidic cleaners such as vinegar, lemon juice, or ammonia-based glass cleaners, which can dull the sealant over time and etch the stone
- Abrasive scouring pads or powders, which can scratch the polished finish
- Bleach or harsh disinfectants used regularly, which can wear down the sealant faster than normal use
If you need to disinfect the surface occasionally, a solution of 70 percent isopropyl alcohol and water, applied and wiped dry, is a safer option than bleach.
Handling Stains
Oil-based stains (from cooking oil or makeup) and organic stains (from coffee, wine, or fruit juice) are the most common issues. For most spills, cleaning promptly prevents staining altogether. For a stain that has already set, a baking soda and water paste left on the spot overnight, then wiped away, often lifts it without damaging the stone. For older or stubborn stains, a professional poultice treatment is the safer route.
Resealing
Most granite countertops need resealing every one to three years, depending on the stone’s porosity and how much the surface is used. A simple test: if water no longer beads on the surface and instead soaks in within a few minutes, it is time to reseal. Keeping up with sealing is one of the easiest ways to protect your investment and keep the warranty on your installation intact; our warranty coverage outlines what proper care helps protect.
Care routines also vary somewhat by material. If you are still deciding between granite, quartz, marble, or quartzite for a kitchen or bathroom project, our full comparison guide breaks down durability and maintenance differences between each stone.
For broader natural stone care standards, the Natural Stone Institute publishes general maintenance guidelines that apply across granite, marble, and quartzite surfaces.
With the right routine, a few minutes of care each week is really all it takes to keep granite countertops looking like the day they were installed. If you have questions about your specific stone or need a recommendation on sealants, our team at Granite Busters is happy to help.