How to Disinfect Granite Counter Tops

Granite, like most countertops, requires disinfecting regularly to fight germs and bacteria and reduce food contamination.  Removing food and liquid with a dishrag does not always sanitize a countertop properly.

Wet dishrags left in a sink or counter give bacteria a moist, warm environment in which to grow.  Granite, a natural stone, does not tolerate acidic cleaners, so use products that disinfect without harming the surface.

1. Fill a sink with warm water and 1 tbsp. of liquid dish soap. Wet a dishrag with the soapy mixture.
2. Wipe the granite countertops with the soapy dishrag. Rinse the dishrag under warm flowing water, and wipe over the countertops to remove the soap suds.
3. Dry the granite countertops with a clean, soft cloth.
4. Dilute 1 part bleach with 10 parts warm water in a bucket. Dip a sponge into the bleach water, and squeeze out the excess liquid.
5. Wipe the sponge over the granite countertops. If you have a back splash, clean it also with the sponge.
6. Rinse the sponge with warm water and wipe over the countertops removing the bleach.
7. Dry the granite with a soft cloth.

Tip

Clean the kitchen sink, faucet and handles of appliances with the diluted bleach to disinfect these surfaces also. Wear rubber gloves when working with bleach to keep hands from drying out.

Warning

Do not use ammonia, vinegar or other acid containing cleaners on granite surfaces as it could compromise the sealer and damage the stone.