Keeping Your Granite Countertop Clean and Germ Free
Many homeowners do not know how to disinfect granite countertops. Even though granite is beautiful and adds a high-end look to your home, it has become popular because of it durability and resistance to staining and damage. In and of itself, your granite countertop is NOT a breeding ground for bacteria. However, your granite countertop can collect some bacteria if moist foods are left to sit on them for too long.
There are a variety of ways that you can keep your granite countertops clean without damaging the sealant. You can use over the counter products that are specifically for granite or you can follow some simple guidelines and make your own.
Germs, Bacteria and How to Disinfect Granite Countertops
There is some common knowledge that everyone should have no matter what type of countertop you have. For instance, did you know that within less than 24 hours bacteria can multiply by the millions? This is an infectious breeding ground for E. coli, salmonella, cold, flu, and more.
Also, many people have a sponge sitting on the edge of their kitchen sink that becomes their “go to” when cleaning up spills and messes. This is huge mistake and can be making you and your family sick without even knowing it. The Center for Disease Control reports that around 80% of sponges are full of high levels of bacteria that could easily land someone in the hospital.
What Is Disinfecting?
Disinfecting is not only cleaning up after spills and messes but PREVENTING bacterial growth. People usually have their standard cleaning products that they use all over their home, but when cleaning granite, some special considerations need to be made.
Vinegar or Bleach Cleaners
Since the days of old, vinegar and bleach have been used alone or in a mixture to clean kitchens and bathrooms. DO NOT use vinegar or bleach on granite countertops! These products will eat through any sealant that you applied. This means that it will be completely susceptible to staining. For those of you that do not feel clean without using bleach, you can use Clorox wipes because they are diluted.
Granite Cleaners
Your safest bet is to use store bought granite cleaners. These are specifically for granite and take into consideration the chemical composition of sealants. There are some very reputable brands that offer complete lines of products to care for your granite.
The Daily War Against Bacteria
Using these highly concentrated cleaners is not necessary daily. Once weekly or after major contaminations is enough. For every day cleaning warm water and dish soap will kill minor bacteria and germs.
When you combine the natural resistance to bacteria and germs that granite already offers with daily cleaning and a disinfecting routine, you have the best possible countertop to keep you and your family safe and healthy. We hope this has been very informational regarding how to disinfect granite countertops. If you like how naturally bacteria resistant granite is and are interested in installing some in your home, don’t hesitate to reach out! We are experts in our field, and can answer any questions you may have.