If you have granite or grout you know how finicky it is to clean. Both are very porous and must be properly sealed to prevent everything and anything that comes in contact with them from soaking right in and staining them. When it comes to keeping your granite surfaces looking clean and shiny, using the right cleaner is key.
In this ultimate guide to making your own granite cleaner we’ll explore the importance of maintaining your granite surfaces, the benefits of using a homemade granite cleaner, explain how and when to use it and most importantly, what NOT to use on your granite counters!
Clean and shiny granite surfaces not only enhance the beauty of your home but also contribute to a healthier living environment. Proper maintenance helps prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and bacteria, ensuring your surfaces remain hygienic and safe for your family.
Opting for a homemade granite cleaner offers several advantages. Firstly, it’s a budget-friendly solution compared to store-bought cleaners, allowing you to save money without compromising on cleanliness.
Secondly, by making your own cleaner, you have control over the ingredients, ensuring a safer and customized cleaning solution for your granite surfaces. Lastly, homemade cleaners are often eco-friendly, reducing the use of harsh chemicals that can be harmful to the environment.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of homemade granite cleaners and guide you through the process step by step. We’ll discuss the essential ingredients needed, provide a detailed recipe, and share tips for safely cleaning your granite surfaces.
Additionally, we’ll offer guidance on proper granite care and maintenance to help you keep your surfaces looking their best for years to come.
By the end of this blog post, you’ll have all the information you need to create your own budget-friendly and effective granite cleaner, ensuring your surfaces shine with beauty.
Next, we’ll explore the understanding of granite and its cleaning needs to give you a solid foundation for maintaining your surfaces.
Understanding Granite and its Cleaning Needs
Granite is a durable and visually stunning natural stone commonly used for countertops and other surfaces. It is formed from cooled magma and consists of various minerals, giving it its characteristic speckled appearance.
Granite is prized for its hardness, resistance to scratches, and heat tolerance. Understanding these properties is essential in selecting the right cleaning methods and products for granite surfaces.
Why using the right cleaner is crucial for granite care:
Granite is a porous material, which means it can absorb liquids and stains if not properly sealed and maintained. Using the wrong cleaner can damage the protective sealant and cause the granite to lose its luster over time.
It’s vital to choose a cleaner specifically formulated for granite to ensure effective cleaning without compromising the stone’s integrity.
Common mistakes to avoid when cleaning granite:
When it comes to cleaning granite, there are some common mistakes that should be avoided to prevent damage.
- One mistake is using acidic or abrasive cleaners that can etch or scratch the surface of the stone.
- Harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia should also be avoided as they can strip away the protective sealant.
- Another mistake is using rough or abrasive sponges or scrub brushes that can scratch the surface.
- Additionally, neglecting to regularly seal the granite can leave it vulnerable to staining and damage.
By understanding the properties of granite, recognizing the importance of using the right cleaner, and being aware of common cleaning mistakes, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge needed to effectively care for your granite surfaces.
Benefits of Making Your Own Granite Cleaner
Making your own granite cleaner not only saves you money but also allows you to customize the ingredients for a safer and more effective cleaning solution.
Not only is myo granite cleaner cost-effective compared to commercial cleaners, you have control over ingredients for a customized solution, and it serves as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical-based cleaners.
Cost-effectiveness compared to commercial cleaners:
One of the significant advantages of making your own granite cleaner is the cost-effectiveness it offers. Store-bought granite cleaners can be quite expensive, especially when you consider the frequency of cleaning required.
By opting for a homemade solution, you can save a significant amount of money in the long run. The ingredients needed for a homemade cleaner are often readily available and affordable, making it an economical choice for maintaining your granite surfaces.
Control over ingredients for a safer and customized solution
When you make your own granite cleaner, you have complete control over the ingredients used. This control allows you to create a safer cleaning solution tailored to your specific needs. Many commercial cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to both your health and the environment.
By making your own cleaner, you can choose natural and non-toxic ingredients, ensuring a safer cleaning experience for you and your family. You can also customize the scent and strength of the cleaner to suit your preferences.
Eco-friendly alternative to chemical-based cleaners
With growing concerns about the environmental impact of chemical-based cleaners, making your own granite cleaner presents an eco-friendly alternative. Homemade cleaners typically utilize natural and biodegradable ingredients that are kinder to the environment.
By reducing your reliance on chemical-based products, you’re contributing to a healthier and more sustainable planet. Plus, you can use reusable spray bottles or containers for your homemade cleaner, further reducing waste.
Unfortunately, that sealer is frequently ruined by long-term use of acidic cleaners, or bleached by peroxide based cleaners. While baking soda is a natural cleaner, it’s abrasiveness causes the sealer to wear off prematurely.
Essential Ingredients for Homemade Granite Cleaner
Next, let’s delve into the essential ingredients for making a homemade granite cleaner. We’ll explore the cleaning properties and safety of rubbing alcohol, the importance of choosing the right type of water, selecting mild and non-abrasive dish soaps, and the optional use of essential oils for fragrance and additional benefits.
Rubbing alcohol: Exploring its cleaning properties and safety
Rubbing alcohol, also known as isopropyl alcohol, is a key ingredient in homemade granite cleaners due to its effective cleaning properties.
It helps to break down and remove grease, grime, and residue from the granite surface.
Additionally, rubbing alcohol evaporates quickly, leaving behind a streak-free shine. It’s important to use rubbing alcohol in moderation and ensure proper ventilation during use.
Water: Choosing the right type of water for the cleaner
Water is a crucial component of any homemade cleaner, including granite cleaner. When selecting water for your granite cleaner, it’s best to use distilled or filtered water to avoid introducing minerals or impurities that could leave streaks or residue on the surface.
Distilled water, in particular, ensures a pure and clean base for your homemade cleaner.
Dish soap: Selecting mild and non-abrasive options
Dish soap serves as a gentle and effective cleaning agent in homemade granite cleaners.
When choosing a dish soap, opt for mild and non-abrasive options to prevent any potential damage to the granite surface. Look for dish soaps that are free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes.
These mild dish soaps will help remove dirt and grime without causing any harm to your granite countertops.
Optional: Essential oils for fragrance and additional benefits
While not essential, adding a few drops of essential oils to your homemade granite cleaner can provide a pleasant fragrance and additional benefits.
Essential oils such as lemon, lavender, or tea tree oil have natural antibacterial properties and can enhance the cleaning power of your homemade solution. However, it’s important to use essential oils sparingly, as their concentrated nature may affect the pH balance of the cleaner.
By understanding the role and properties of essential ingredients such as rubbing alcohol, water, dish soap, and optional essential oils, you can create a safe and effective homemade granite cleaner.
In the next section, we’ll provide a step-by-step recipe for making your own granite cleaner, ensuring you achieve a sparkling clean surface without any potential harm. Here is our favorite simple, do it yourself granite cleaner recipe that you can make at home to maintain a beautiful lustre finish.
All-Purpose Cleaner for Granite, Tile and Marble
You’ll Need:
2 cups water
1/2 cup 70% Rubbing Alcohol
5 drops of Dawn, or soap powder
(optional) a few drops of essential oil if you want to avoid the smell of alcohol, we prefer Lavender Essential oil
Instructions:
- In a spray bottle, combine the rubbing alcohol and water.
- Add the dish soap to the mixture.
- If desired, add a few drops of your preferred essential oil for a pleasant scent. Lavender, lemon, or peppermint oils work well.
- Close the spray bottle tightly and gently shake to mix all the ingredients.
- Before each use, give the bottle a gentle shake to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
- Spray the homemade granite cleaner directly onto the granite surface you wish to clean.
- Use a soft cloth or microfiber cloth to wipe the surface in a gentle circular motion, removing any dirt or residue.
- For any stubborn stains or grime, let the cleaner sit on the surface for a few minutes before wiping it clean.
- Finally, rinse the surface with water and dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth to achieve a streak-free shine.
Remember to test the homemade cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of your granite surface before using it extensively. This will help ensure compatibility and avoid any potential damage or discoloration.
When used properly, the homemade granite cleaner recipe provided should not harm the surface of your granite. However, it’s important to note a few precautions:
- Test on a small, inconspicuous area: Before using the cleaner on the entire granite surface, it’s always recommended to test it on a small, hidden area first. This will help ensure that the cleaner is compatible with your specific granite and doesn’t cause any adverse reactions.
- Use a mild, non-abrasive dish soap: Ensure that the dish soap you use is mild and non-abrasive. Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners that can potentially damage the granite surface.
- Avoid acidic ingredients: Acidic substances like vinegar, lemon juice, or citrus-based cleaners can etch or dull the finish of granite. The recipe provided does not include any acidic ingredients, making it safe for most granite surfaces.
- Don’t let the cleaner sit for too long: While the cleaner can be left on stubborn stains for a few minutes to help loosen them, avoid letting the solution sit on the surface for an extended period. Promptly rinse and dry the surface after cleaning.
By following these guidelines and using the cleaner as directed, it should be safe to use on most granite surfaces.
Proper storage and shelf life of the homemade cleaner
To maintain the effectiveness of your homemade granite cleaner, proper storage is essential. Store the cleaner in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. The recommended storage is in a sealed spray bottle or a tightly sealed container.
The shelf life of the homemade granite cleaner can vary based on the ingredients used. Generally, it can last for several months when stored properly.
However, it’s essential to periodically check the cleaner for any signs of spoilage, such as an unpleasant odor or discoloration. If any changes occur, it’s best to discard the cleaner and prepare a fresh batch.
Additional Tips for Granite Care and Maintenance
In addition to creating your own granite cleaner, proper care and maintenance are crucial for keeping your granite surfaces looking their best. Let’s go over regular maintenance routines, preventive measures, and dos and don’ts for keeping your granite surfaces pristine.
Regular maintenance routines for long-lasting granite beauty
To ensure the long-lasting beauty of your granite surfaces, it’s essential to incorporate regular maintenance routines into your cleaning schedule. Consider the following practices:
- Wipe down your granite countertops daily using a soft cloth or microfiber cloth. This helps to remove dust, dirt, and spills before they have a chance to settle and potentially cause stains.
- Use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for granite surfaces on a weekly basis. Avoid harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners, as they can damage the sealant and cause etching.
- Dry your granite surfaces thoroughly after each cleaning to prevent water spots and streaks. This helps to maintain the natural shine of the stone.
By implementing these simple maintenance routines, you’ll preserve the beauty and luster of your granite countertops for years to come.
Preventive measures to protect your granite surfaces
Taking preventive measures can significantly extend the life and beauty of your granite surfaces. Consider the following tips:
- Use coasters or placemats under glasses, bottles, and hot dishes to prevent direct contact with the granite. This protects the surface from potential etching or staining caused by liquids or heat.
- Place cutting boards under knives and other sharp objects to avoid scratches on the granite surface.
- Avoid placing acidic or citrus-based products directly on the countertop, as they can cause etching and dull the finish.
By being proactive and mindful of potential risks, you can maintain the pristine condition of your granite surfaces.
Dos and don’ts for maintaining a pristine granite countertop
To ensure the longevity and beauty of your granite countertop, it’s important to follow some dos and don’ts:
Dos:
- Do clean up spills promptly to prevent staining.
- Do use gentle cleaning products specifically formulated for granite.
- Do use a soft cloth or sponge for regular cleaning to avoid scratching the surface.
- Do reseal your granite countertops periodically as recommended by the manufacturer.
Don’ts:
- Don’t use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or steel wool, as they can scratch the surface.
- Don’t place hot pans or pots directly on the countertop without protection.
- Don’t use vinegar, lemon juice, or other acidic substances for cleaning, as they can damage the sealant and cause etching.
By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll maintain the beauty and integrity of your granite countertop, ensuring it remains a focal point in your home for years to come.
MYO Granite Cleaner – Print Recipe
MYO Granite Cleaner
Equipment
Materials
- 2 cups water
- ½ cup 70% Rubbing Alcohol
- 5 drops Dawn Dish Detergents or soap powder (optional)
- 3-5 drops Essential oil
Instructions
- In a spray bottle, combine the rubbing alcohol and water.2 cups water½ cup 70% Rubbing Alcohol
- Add the dish soap to the mixture.5 drops Dawn Dish Detergents
- If desired, add a few drops of your preferred essential oil for a pleasant scent. Lavender, lemon, or peppermint oils work well.3-5 drops Essential oil
- Close the spray bottle tightly and gently shake to mix all the ingredients.
- Before each use, give the bottle a gentle shake to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
How To Clean Granite
- Spray the homemade granite cleaner directly onto the granite surface you wish to clean.
- Use a soft cloth or microfiber cloth to wipe the surface in a gentle circular motion, removing any dirt or residue.
- For any stubborn stains or grime, let the cleaner sit on the surface for a few minutes before wiping it clean.
- Finally, rinse the surface with water and dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth to achieve a streak-free shine.
- Remember to test the homemade cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of your granite surface before using it extensively. This will help ensure compatibility and avoid any potential damage or discoloration.
Equipment & Materials
The information on this DIY site is for general informational purposes only. We do not guarantee the accuracy or effectiveness of the content shared. The site owner and authors are not liable for any damages or injuries. Use the information at your own risk and seek professional advice when needed.
Conclusion
By following these simple tips, my friend, you’ll be able to maintain the beauty and integrity of your granite countertops without breaking a sweat. With just a little effort and attention, you’ll be rewarded with surfaces that continue to impress with their natural beauty and durability. Your home will thank you for it!
So, are you ready to give your granite surfaces the love and care they deserve? I know you’ve got this, and I’m here to cheer you on every step of the way. Together, we’ll keep those countertops looking absolutely fabulous!
© Can Stock Photo Inc. / tab62
This is so quick, easy and super cheap to make! Can’t wait to try it out!! Thank you so much for posting this!
Works great on my granite counter top and ceramic top stove. I had my doubts, but it seems to do the trick.