Download Article
Download Article
Granite is a popular choice for many homes, whether it’s a kitchen countertop, a bathroom vanity, or the foyer floor. Not only is it very durable, it’s gorgeous and effortlessly elegant. Enhance the stone’s natural beauty and make it last longer by polishing it regularly and taking the right measures to protect it from everyday wear and tear.
Steps
-
Select a granite-safe polish. General polishes may damage the surface if they contain ammonia, bleach, or vinegar. [1] X Research source
- You can buy wet or dry polish. Dry powder (which you mix with water) can be better at removing scratches and is less expensive. [2] X Research source
- Don't use any harsh chemicals or products to polish your granite.
-
Clean the granite with warm water and dish soap. Using a dish cloth, gently wipe the stone to remove dirt or debris. Use a mild pH-neutral dish soap without ammonia or bleach. Harsh chemicals could strip away sealant. [3] X Research source
- Always clean the granite's surface before you start polishing it.
Advertisement -
Spray granite polish or cleaner over the entire area. Soap is good for cleaning but can leave granite looking dull so a stone-specific polish will restore shine. Never use a gritty or coarse product as this might scratch the surface or eat at the sealant. [4] X Research source
- Less is more. Only use the recommended amount of polish (read the box as using too much will leave a dull residue.
- A thorough cleaning should be done once a week to make your stone sparkle. [5] X Research source
-
Dry the granite completely. Leaving product or water on the surface can cause streaks or stains. [6] X Research source Use a soft cloth or paper towel to wipe away excess liquid.
-
Buff with a dry microfiber towel. A microfiber cloth contains tiny split fibers that make it more absorbent than cotton, meaning it will soak up leftover residue instead of just smearing it around. [7] X Research source Rub in small circles with firm pressure.
-
Check to see if your granite needs to be resealed. To do this, put a few drops of water on your countertop. If it leaves a watermark or soaks into the stone, you should seal your granite . [8] X Research source
- You should seal granite after polishing for best results. [9] X Research source
Advertisement
-
Mix rubbing alcohol, dish soap, and water in a spray bottle. Pour 1 ⁄ 4 cup (59 mL) of rubbing alcohol into a 16 oz (450 g) bottle, then add a few drops of dish soap. Fill the rest of the bottle with water. [10] X Research source Shake to combine.
- Use a dish soap that doesn't have antibacterial additives which can leave streaks on the surface of the granite. [11] X Research source
- You can swap the dish soap for castile soap for a more environmentally-friendly alternative. [12] X Research source
- Store your spray at room temperature. It should last for 1 to 2 months. [13] X Research source
-
Spray the polish on your granite. Make sure you've cleaned any spills or sticky residue off the surface with a damp cloth before spraying or it won't be as effective. [14] X Research source
-
Dry thoroughly with a clean towel. You don't need to rinse with water - simply buff the area with a soft microfiber towel, making sure not to leave excess cleaner on the granite. [15] X Research source
Advertisement
-
Shape the edges with a power sander. Use a 40 or 60 grit sandpaper disc to even out the edges. A finer grit sandpaper (like 120 or 150 grit) will work if the edges just need minor shaping. [16] X Research source
- Always wear a dust mask and safety glasses to protect yourself when using a power sander.
-
Wipe the edges with a damp cloth. This will remove any debris or particles left over from the sanding.
-
Continue sanding with a finer grit sandpaper. Once your edges are shaped, you'll want to use a small 600 grit sandpaper to put on the finishing touches and smooth out the texture. [17] X Research source
-
Apply polishing spray to the granite. Use a microfiber towel to buff into the surface and dry. Granite typically takes at least 12 hours to dry completely. [18] X Research source
-
Seal the edges. This will protect the granite and make it easier to clean. [19] X Research source When sealing granite , keep in mind that the edges will often require 2 applications of sealant. [20] X Research source
Advertisement
-
Seal your granite once a year. Unsealed stone is more vulnerable to stains. In areas that get used a lot or are exposed to water frequently (like around a sink), have a professional reseal the granite annually.
- Sealant in lower-use areas can last up to 10 years if cared for properly. [21] X Research source
-
Use coasters or placemats for food and drinks. Letting food that has dyes or oils in it sit on granite will often cause stains. [22] X Research source Always use a cutting board when cooking, too, instead of placing food directly on the counter.
- Heat can also harm granite so don't put hot pots or pans directly on the stone. Use a trivet or hot pad.
- If you have granite floors, lay down some rugs to minimize grit being etched into the stone from being walked on.
-
Wipe down granite daily. It’s not necessary to use a cleaner on your stone every day but simply wiping it with a dry cloth can remove grime and any spills, avoiding permanent stains or scratches. [23] X Research source
- Vacuum floors often, as well. Make sure your vacuum isn't dragging on the surface or scratching it.
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
Advertisement
Tips
Submit a Tip
All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
Warnings
- Never use vinegar or citrus cleaners on granite. The acid in these can erode the sealant or cause discoloration. [24] X Research sourceThanks
- Granite floors can be cleaned or resealed but should never be polished. This will make them very slippery and increase the chances of falling.Thanks
Advertisement
References
- ↑ https://www.goldeagle.com/tips-tools/polish-granite-countertops/
- ↑ https://www.goldeagle.com/tips-tools/polish-granite-countertops/
- ↑ https://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/homemade-granite-cleaner
- ↑ http://usenaturalstone.org/caring-for-granite/
- ↑ http://usenaturalstone.org/caring-for-granite/
- ↑ https://www.digitaltrends.com/home/how-to-clean-granite-countertops/
- ↑ https://www.theartofcleanliness.com/automotive/the-ultimate-guide-to-microfiber/
- ↑ https://www.digitaltrends.com/home/how-to-clean-granite-countertops/
- ↑ https://countertopguides.com/guides/polish-granite-restore-factory-shine.html
- ↑ https://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/homemade-granite-cleaner
- ↑ https://housewifehowtos.com/clean/diy-granite-cleaner-recipe/
- ↑ https://rootandrevel.com/diy-natural-granite-cleaner/
- ↑ https://cleanmama.com/diy-cleaners-marble-granite-cleaning-spray/
- ↑ https://www.thisgrandmaisfun.com/diy-granite-cleaner/
- ↑ https://cleanmama.com/diy-cleaners-marble-granite-cleaning-spray/
- ↑ https://homequicks.com/how-to-polish-granite
- ↑ https://homequicks.com/how-to-polish-granite
- ↑ http://stonecare.com/Caring-for-Stone/Sealing
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDrKudzK0WI
- ↑ http://stonecare.com/Caring-for-Stone/Sealing
- ↑ http://usenaturalstone.org/caring-for-granite/
- ↑ https://www.digitaltrends.com/home/how-to-clean-granite-countertops/
- ↑ https://www.cmmonline.com/articles/tips-on-how-to-clean-granite-countertops-and-surfaces
- ↑ https://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/homemade-granite-cleaner
About This Article
Article Summary
X
To polish granite, look for a product that doesn’t contain ammonia, bleach, or vinegar, since these ingredients can damage the surface of your granite. Alternatively, make your own polish by mixing ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol with a few drops of dish soap and 16 ounces of water in a spray bottle. Start by cleaning your granite surfaces with dish soap and a clean cloth to get rid of any dirt or debris. Then, spray your granite polish onto the surface to restore its shine. Once you’ve polished your granite, dry it with a paper towel or microfiber cloth, since any leftover moisture can cause streaks or stains. Clean your granite surfaces once a week to keep them sparkling. For more tips, including how to seal cracks in your granite surface, read on!
Did this summary help you?
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 23,674 times.
Advertisement
