Granite countertops are valued for their strength and timeless appeal, but they need special care to maintain their beauty. Learn how to clean a granite countertop and prevent the common mistakes that can dull or damage the stone.
While granite is durable, it still requires the right cleaning techniques to protect its natural shine. In this guide, you’ll discover practical tips to remove stains, keep your granite sink spotless, and choose safe products for long-lasting results.
Why granite maintenance matters
Granite is a natural stone formed from cooled magma, composed mainly of quartz, feldspar, and mica, which gives it both its durability and its unique patterns. This composition makes granite highly resistant to scratches, chips, and heat, making it an excellent choice for busy kitchens and bathrooms.
However, because granite is slightly porous, unsealed or poorly maintained surfaces can absorb oils, wine, or acidic substances, leading to discoloration or dull spots known as etching.
Regular maintenance not only preserves the stone’s polished finish but also strengthens the protective sealant that guards against moisture and bacteria. This is why granite care is not purely aesthetic. It also ensures your kitchen counters and sinks remain hygienic, functional, and safe for food preparation.
If you’re new to the material, start with the fundamentals in The Basics of Granite to understand how its composition and finish impact daily care.
How to clean a granite countertop?
Cleaning a granite countertop may seem straightforward, but different situations call for different approaches.
In the sections below, you’ll learn how to clean granite on a regular basis, how to tackle stubborn stains without damaging the surface, and how to keep your granite sink spotless and free from buildup.
How to clean granite
For everyday cleaning, follow these simple steps to maintain your granite’s shine:
- Wipe away debris: use a dry microfiber cloth to remove crumbs and dust.
- Apply a gentle solution: mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners.
- Clean the surface: dip a microfiber cloth into the solution and wipe the entire countertop.
- Rinse and dry: use clean water to rinse away any soap residue, then dry with a soft cloth to prevent streaks and water spots.
Quick tip: a pH-neutral, stone-safe cleaner can replace dish soap for a residue-free finish and a quick daily routine.
If you’re shopping or planning a remodel, explore finishes and edge profiles in our Granite Collection.
How to clean a stained granite countertop
Even with daily care, granite can sometimes develop stains from spills. The key is quick action. Here are methods for different types of stains:
- Oil-based stains (cooking oils, grease): apply a poultice made of baking soda and water to form a peanut-butter consistency. Spread ¼-inch thick over the spot, cover with plastic wrap, tape the edges, and let it sit 12–24 hours. Remove, wipe, rinse, and repeat if needed.
- Wine, coffee, or tea stains (organic): use a poultice with hydrogen peroxide (for light granites) mixed with baking soda or flour. Allow it to dwell as above, then rinse and dry.
- Ink or dye: dab gently with isopropyl alcohol on a soft cloth; for persistent ink on light stone, a hydrogen-peroxide-based poultice may help.
- Rust or metal marks: use a stone-safe rust remover specifically labeled for natural stone; avoid generic acids that can etch the surface.
Important: always test any method on an inconspicuous area first. Avoid strong acids/alkalis (bleach, ammonia, vinegar) and abrasive pads, which can damage the sealer and the stone.
How to clean a granite sink
Granite (or granite-composite) sinks are elegant but exposed to soap scum, food residue, and hard-water deposits. Keep them spotless with this routine:
- Daily wipe-down: Use warm water and a small drop of mild dish soap with a soft sponge.
- Rinse and towel-dry: Prevents mineral spots and keeps the finish even.
- Lift light stains: Sprinkle baking soda, mist with water, gently scrub with a soft nylon brush, rinse, and dry.
- Address hard water/limescale: Prefer a stone-safe, pH-neutral limescale remover labeled for natural stone/composites. Avoid acidic DIY mixes on sealed stone surfaces.
- Restore luster (optional): After cleaning and drying, a small amount of food-safe mineral oil buffed in with a microfiber cloth can darken composite tones and repel water; use sparingly and follow manufacturer guidance.
Learning how to clean a granite countertop is about more than quick wipe-downs. With stone-safe products, smart stain-removal techniques, and consistent maintenance, granite can stay as stunning as the day it was installed.
Whether you’re handling everyday messes, pulling out stubborn stains, or keeping your granite sink free of water spots, gentle methods and the right tools make all the difference.
If you’re comparing materials or exploring new colors and finishes, leverage Why Should I Choose Granite Countertops? to align aesthetics with care needs.