DIY Granite Cleaner
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If you’re looking for a great, inexpensive DIY Granite Cleaner, I’ve got you.
You can watch me make the DIY Granite Cleaner in the video, and then continue Reading all about it below!
Links mentioned in the video:
Do you have granite countertops? I have them in my kitchen, and I have to say that I do love them. Well, I love that they are granite, and I think I’d like the pattern if my cabinets weren’t so dark. I have a very opinionated opinion that if you have dark countertops, you need lighter cabinets, and if you have dark cabinets, you need a lighter countertop.
Go take a look at old my kitchen and see what you think.
It’s all about the contrast, baby.
We moved in 2020 and now I have a White Kitchen with a triptych window over my sink. It has been THE BEST kitchen I’ve ever had. I now have a legit kitchen island and I seriously love it. It’s not big, but it’s beautiful!
If you like this DIY Granite Cleaner, you might also like:
And it has white granite countertops with grey flecks and just a hint of sparkle. Which I love.
Now, granite is great… but, countertops, no matter what material can get gross and grosser. And for years, I bought that really expensive granite cleaner from the store, but I’m older and wiser now. I make homemade granite cleaner for myself for a fraction of the cost. I mean, have you priced that stuff? It’s like 8 bucks a pop!
Let’s chat about what not to use when cleaning Granite!
Granite countertops are a just gorgeous and they are definitely a durable addition to any kitchen, but it’s super important to know exactly what NOT to use when you’re cleaning them! Otherewise, you might cause some unintended damage or discoloration and we don’t want that at all…never ever ever!
Here are some things you absoltely want to avoid at all costs:
- Abrasive cleaners: Avoid using abrasive cleaners, such as powdered cleansers, scouring pads, or steel wool, as they can scratch the surface of your granite countertops and dull their shine.
- Acidic cleaners: Do not use acidic cleaners, such as vinegar, lemon juice, or bleach, on granite countertops as they can etch the surface and cause permanent damage. Even natural cleaning solutions like vinegar, lemon or baking soda can be too acidic for granite.
- Ammonia-based cleaners: Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners or glass cleaners on granite countertops, as they can break down the sealer that protects the surface, leading to dullness and staining.
- Oil-based cleaners: Do not use oil-based cleaners, such as furniture polish or vegetable oil, on granite countertops, as they can leave a greasy residue that attracts dirt and stains.
- Harsh chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals, such as oven cleaner or drain cleaner, on granite countertops, as they can damage the surface and cause discoloration.
To clean granite countertops, it’s best to use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for granite or a mild dish soap and warm water. Always use a soft cloth (like a microfiber cloth) or sponge to avoid scratching the surface.
The most important thing when it comes to making a cleaner for natural stone is to not use anything acidic. That why there is NO vinegar in this cleaner. Vinegar is great on soap scum and calcium deposits, but it’s your enemy when it comes to stone. Instead of vinegar, we’re going to use Isopropyl Alcohol.
Now let’s get to my awesome homeamade granite cleaner recipe!
DIY Granite Cleaner Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of Isopropyl Alcohol aka Rubbing Alcohol
- 10 drops of Mrs. Meyers Concentrated Cleaner or other mild dish soap or if you’re Vegan, use castile soap.
- 2 Cups of Distilled Water (or filtered tap water if you need to)
- 10 drops of Essential Oils – I use Lavender and Peppermint to add just a hint of scent, but basil, eucalyptus, or lemon essential oil would be nice as well.
Instructions:
Pour everything in your spray bottle and shake. Then clean your counters as usual. It’s amazing!
Just look at that shine! I can see my beautiful face all up in there. You really can’t beat this diy granite cleaner.
The Benefits of DIY Granite Cleaner
Well, it’s made primarily with Isopropyl Alcohol which is great for cleaning!
Isopropyl alcohol, aka rubbing alcohol, is a serioulsy versatile cleaning solution that has several benefits:
Kills germs and bacteria:
Isopropyl alcohol is an effective disinfectant that kills germs and bacteria on surfaces, making it a great cleaner for high-traffic areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms. So many germs in those rooms, right?
Dries quickly:
Isopropyl alcohol evaporates quickly, leaving surfaces dry and free of streaks, which is really great when your cleaning kitchen counters! Streak free, baby!
Removes sticky residue:
Isopropyl alcohol can dissolve sticky residues, such as tape or glue, making it a great solution for cleaning up spills or removing labels and stickers from surfaces. All of those apple stickers people, ahem, stick on the counter? Easy to remove the gummy part with this cleaner.
Versatile:
Isopropyl alcohol can be used on a variety of surfaces, including metal, plastic, and glass, making it a versatile cleaning solution for many household and industrial applications.
Plus it’s safe to use on most electronic devices, as it evaporates quickly and does not leave behind any residue that could damage circuits or components.
This is why I use this diy granite cleaner in so many different ways. It really is pretty much and all in one cleaner..it’s not just for natural stone surfaces!
Disclaimer alert:
It’s important to note that isopropyl alcohol should be used in a well-ventilated area and with caution, as it is flammable and can be harmful if ingested or inhaled in large amounts. Always follow the instructions on the label and use proper protective equipment, such as gloves and eyewear, when handling isopropyl alcohol.
And it gets the paint splatters off the stone, too… safely. These splatters were from cleaning my really grody paintbrush that I let sit for three days. Blurg. All you have to do is spray it on and wipe up those tough stains!
Pretty cool, huh?
Just look at that shine! I can see my beautiful face all up in there.
And it gets the paint splatters off the stone, too… safely. These splatters were from cleaning my really grody paintbrush that I let sit for three days. Blurg.
Pretty cool, huh?
I’m obsessed with this stuff. It’s so much better than store-bought cleaners. It’s easy to make and super economical, yo.
I’m spilling things just so I can clean them up. #notreallyijustloveexaggerating
Do you have granite counters? Marble? How do you clean them?
Let me know in the comments below!
For more Natural Cleaners and ways to freshen your home, just visit The Naturally Fresh Home Gallery.
ooh–I will definitely be making this! I’ve never bought expensive granite cleaner; it took me forever to learn that you weren’t supposed to use just whatever stuff you had on hand on granite, and since then I mostly just do soap and water. But something a little more hard core would come in handy. so thanks!
This cleaner is awesome, Gretchen! I hope you like it!
I use a very similar recipe, and I love it! I usually add a few drops of orange oil to mine, but will try peppermint and lavender next time!
Orange oil sounds great, too, Linda! Yum!
Can this be used on honed granite?
Ooo… I would think so, but I’m not sure, Tammy. Check with your manufacturer to be safe!
xoxo
Gwen
Can this cleaner get used on Marble & Quartz?
The pH of Rubbing Alcohol is rather neutral, so I’d think it would be ok, but I’m not totally certain. Check with who installed your counters to be sure!
xoxo
Gwen