How to Clean Granite
Step by Step -- Part I

Learn how to clean granite. It's a beautiful and durable surface that is becoming more popular in modern homes. Your house cleaning business clients will want to know you know the right way to clean granite countertops!

With proper care, a granite countertop will keep its illustrious shine for many years. Since granite is stone, it is relatively easy to maintain and just as hard to scratch. Cleaning granite requires only a few simple steps.

1. Wipe off the surface. Before you apply any cleaner to your granite, you'll want to make sure that the surface is free of any bits or debris. Sweep these off into the trash bin, and then continue on to the next step.

2. Steer clear of soap. You're going to have to change your way of thinking when it comes to cleaning granite. While good old-fashioned dish soap works well when cleaning just about anything, it's not a good choice for granite. The same goes for vinegar -- don't use it! Both leave streaks and residue and will take away the shine of your granite. You will need to find a cleaner specifically safe and practical for stone. Here are a few options:

• Stone cleaner. StoneTech professional carries a great line of stone cleaning materials, as does Granite Gold, SprayWay and AquaMix. A tile or countertop store likely has a variety to choose from. Your local hardware or home building store will also have a cleaners section, and you’ll likely find them in the form of creams, disposable towels or spray bottles. Any cleaner made specifically for use on granite is ideal. All you’ll need to do is spray the surface lightly with the cleaner, and then wipe it clean.
  
• Alcohol and water. Combine equal parts alcohol and water into a spray bottle and mist over the granite. Wipe afterwards. The alcohol should speed the drying process, but if not, a microfiber cloth or a lint-free cloth will leave the least evidence of cleaning.

3. Clean often. Once you've decided on your cleaner of choice, spray down the surface with your cleaner, making sure to spray only your countertops. Then simply wipe up the cleaner with a sponge, clean towel or lint-free cloth. To make sure no residue is left behind, soak a clean cloth in hot water, wring it out and run it over your granite surface. If the cloth leaves any streaks, your cleaner was either applied too thickly, or there was residual detergent in the cloth. Again, a clean cloth is necessary, so wring it out with hot water a few times just to be sure that no soap is hiding out within the cloth or it will show up on your granite!

How to Clean Granite -- Do's and Don'ts

• It's important not to use a steamer on your granite countertops too often, if at all. It has the potential to steam away the granite sealer, which exposes the bare rock and leaves it susceptible to great damage.
• Consider using organic cleaners on your countertops. Remember that these are countertops used for food preparation and any residue from cleaners may transfer to food.
• Don't use an orange-based cleaner on granite. These cleaners are acid and could etch the granite countertops.

Knowing how to clean granite and caring for your granite is a relatively easy process, as long as you’ve got the right cleaner. If you're frustrated by streaks and a dull sheen, switch cleaners. The right cleaning method will help your granite countertops to retain their beauty for years to come.

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Continue on to Cleaning Granite Countertops -- Part II.