Learn to sanitize your granite countertops the right way.
Granite countertops are some of the most beautiful countertops you can get for your kitchen. They come in so many different styles and complete the look of any space. Keeping them clean is important to keep the area healthy for those in it. You might know some simple cleaning methods to keep them clean but oftentimes that’s not enough. In kitchens, since raw meat, fruit and vegetables are handled, harmful bacteria can spread over the counters. To keep your family safe, it’s important to sanitize your granite countertops regularly, in addition to your regular cleaning schedule.
Although, sanitizing the wrong way can lead to permeate damage of the granite. Granite is not like engineered non-porous stone. It is natural and porous, which means liquid is able to seep into it causing stains. To prevent stains from occurring, a stone sealant can be applied to the stone. The issue with most sealants is that many household cleaners can actually strip them away which leaves your countertops vulnerable to staining. Just by following a few simple steps, you can sanitize your granite countertops without causing damage to the beautiful look.
Disinfectants to use
Using a disinfectant that contains alcohol is an effective way to kill germs and bacteria. Isopropyl alcohol is a first-aid product that can be easily found at your local grocery store. It is best to use disinfectants with a 70% isopropyl alcohol or less. This is because it has a higher moisture content and will stay on the surface for longer, ultimately killing more bacteria. Products with a mixture higher than 70% will evaporate far too quickly to kill all the bacteria.
Not only sure you use an alcohol based disinfectant, but you need an antibacterial dish soap as well. In a spray bottle, mix four tablespoons of the alcohol and four drops of soap and fill the rest with water. Shake to combine and then you are ready to use. Spray the solution onto your countertops and then let sit for 5 minutes before wiping it with a cloth.
Disinfectants to avoid
Abrasive cleaners such as bleach, ammonia, window cleaners and all-purpose cleaners never should be used on granite countertops. There are many harsh chemicals in these cleaners which will remove the protective seal from the granite, leaving it exposed to staining. Natural products should also be avoided. Products made with citric fruits like lemon or lime are very acidic and strip granite sealant as well.
Sponges and cloths to use
When cleaning your granite countertop, use only microfibre cloths, washcloths or non-scratch sponges. You want to use gentle materials to avoid scratching your granite’s finish. Although, you need to be careful when choosing a cloth. Cloths that are colourful have dye in them that can bleed into the countertops and stain. Wash your coloured cloths in the washing machine before using them on your countertops to make sure there’s no dye able to seep out.
Sponges and cloths to avoid
Scouring pads made of steel or wool and scrub sponges are bad to use when cleaning granite. They are harsh and will scrap away at the sealant and cause scratches to the overall finish. After reading this, you might think using disinfectant wipes is an easy way to avoid the hassle of getting good products. But disinfectant wipes contain harmful chemicals that ruin the granite. It’s best to stick with the recommended products and materials to be safe. Contact House Cleaning Belleville to help you clean your granite countertops. We use all the correct cleaning methods and materials to make sure they are shiny and not damaged.
Cleaning your granite counter tops is a great task to do during spring cleaning. If you need help with getting your home in shape for the summer, conatct House Cleaning Belleville today
