Using a granite countertop cleaner does not have to be a major undertaking. A once-a-day light cleaning along with a weekly deep cleaning should keep those expensive countertops looking great. Read on to discover how to select and use a granite countertop cleaner without worry of scratching or marring that beautiful investment.

A granite countertop cleaner does not have to be expensive. In fact, one that works like a dream consists simply of mild dish detergent; warm water; a soft, clean cloth; and plain old elbow grease. You can make another by mixing a quarter-cup of denatured or isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol to a half-gallon of water for an excellent, inexpensive granite countertop cleaner.

To make a simple, basic granite countertop cleaner that is good for removing stains, mix flour and liquid dish soap until it makes a thick paste. Smear on the stain, cover with plastic kitchen wrap, and allow to sit overnight.

Stains from oil, grease, milk, or blood can often be removed by substituting hydrogen peroxide for the liquid dish soap for a granite countertop cleaner that is safe, effective, and does not cost much. Some people recommend ammonia in lieu of the soap or peroxide for really tough stains, but most experts nix ammonia for a granite countertop cleaner as too harsh for stone.

If you feel you need a little something extra in a granite countertop cleaner, try products from a company called Granite Gold . Granite Gold cleaners do not contain any harmful, harsh cleaners, including ammonia. Having been in the stone business for more than 75 years, this company offers a variety of products to keep granite and other stone lustrous and its durability intact.

One thing to keep in mind when considering any granite countertop cleaner is avoiding the use of any acid-based ingredient. You do not want to use anything containing citric acid (products with lemon or orange in them, for instance) or vinegar. These can etch your beautiful granite, which nothing other than re-polishing the stone can remove.

With all this information, you now have the know-how for choosing a granite countertop cleaner that works for you. So what are you waiting for? Roll-up those sleeves and put that granite countertop cleaner to work!