:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/spr-primary-best-granite-cleaners-jkim-0048-b7c688652b0b42d0a6be31e5f1c4c1f2.jpg)
The Spruce / Joy Kim
Granite is a beautiful and durable surface for everything from kitchen countertops to showers, and it’s best to keep yours clean and gleaming by using a cleaner that is easy to apply and formulated for natural stone. That way, you can continue to show it off whenever you have guests over and reap the benefits for years to come.
Krissia García, CEO and founder of KrissKlean, says cleaning stone requires special care. “We can’t use any strong supplies because it scratches easily and gets damaged.” She recommends using just a rag or microfiber cloth when cleaning, as it’s effective, doesn’t leave behind lint or streaks, and doesn’t cause chaos. “No sponge or you can damage the marble!”
Here are the best cleaners for granite and other natural stone surfaces.
Best Overall
Weiman Granite & Stone Daily Cleaner and Polish
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/weiman-granite--stone-daily-cleaner-and-polish-33cb6b424a81423db3e1c24e2d6d711a.jpg)
Amazon
Easy to apply
Streak-free shine
Pleasant scent
Works on a variety of surfaces
Not great for deep cleaning
Only can be used on sealed surfaces
For an effective product that polishes granite and leaves a lasting shine with routine use, the Weiman granite cleaner and polish can’t be beat. Not only is it affordable and effective, you can find it in most supermarkets and mainstream retailers in the cleaning products aisle, or order it online. While it is very effective for granite, you can also use it on other surfaces to disinfect and clean, including marble, soapstone, quartz and quartzite, slate, limestone, corian, laminate, and tile. It is safe for use in the kitchen, bathroom, or any other place that you need to clean.
To use it, just spray the cleaner directly onto the surface and wipe the excess away with a clean cloth. It has a slight citrus scent that is refreshing, especially in a kitchen. If you have grease messes, you may need to apply this cleaner multiple times or use a heavy-duty degreaser that is safe for granite. Weiman’s granite cleaner and polish is honestly better for daily use and upkeep.
You should make sure that your surface is sealed before using, however. The cleaner isn’t suitable for porous surfaces because it will soak in and not be effective. It can even damage non-sealed surfaces. We always recommend testing cleaners on a small, inconspicuous area first. But, we have not run up against a sealed stone that the Weiman’s granite cleaner can’t tackle.
Price at time of publish: $14
Type: Spray | Amount: 24 fluid ounces | Safe for Use On: Granite, marble, soapstone, quartz and quartzite, slate, limestone, corian, laminate, and tile | Scent: Citrus
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/spr-product-weiman-disinfectant-granite-cleaner-and-polish-microfiber-cloth-jkim-0061-66966c9406684a32b4d9dbe7b056ea2f.jpg)
The Spruce / Joy Kim
Best Budget
Formula 409 32 oz. Stone & Steel Cleaner
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/formula-409-32-oz-stone--steel-cleaner-9740b2e6b7ed4a84b1fc4d8139aca6bc.jpg)
Walmart
Good for small spills
Works on natural stone and stainless steel
Easy to spray and use
Not for heavy-duty messes and grease
Doesn’t disinfect
Not only is the Formula 409 stone and steel cleaner affordable, it can also do double-duty around your home, cleaning both natural stone and stainless steel. It is ideal for kitchens, where both of these surfaces are common. To use it, just spray the cleaner directly onto the surface and wipe away with a cloth. It doesn’t include ammonia and is pH-balanced, so it’s safe for even delicate surfaces.
Keep in mind that this is not a degreaser and can’t handle heavy messes, such as grease and grime buildup in ovens or on stovetops. While it will clean the surface and create a streak-free shine, if you have baked-on messes or grease, you will need to remove those first. The Formula 409 is better for small spills when cleaned immediately, and to clean the countertop. It also doesn’t disinfect like some other cleaners on the market and on this list.
Price at time of publish: $15
Type: Spray | Amount: 32 fluid ounces | Safe for Use On: Natural stone and stainless steel | Scent: Unscented
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/spr-product-formula-409-stone-and-steel-cleaner-spray-bottle-32-oz-jkim-0053-342fa74eea474f1aa329d260cc3efbf3.jpg)
The Spruce / Joy Kim
Best Wipes
Weiman Granite Wipes - 30ct
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/weiman-granite-wipes---30ct-25652a95b59e4561a720d5baa9e02080.jpg)
Amazon
Easy to use
Disinfects surfaces
Streak-free polish
Portable
Expensive
If you’re looking for a convenient way to give granite a shine, consider granite cleaner wipes. Housed in an airtight canister, these ready-to-go wipes are most often used to clean up spills and streaks without using ordinary household cleaners that can dull or damage the finish of granite counters.
These granite cleaner wipes aren’t necessarily a replacement for regular, thorough granite cleaning. Most users find them to be effective for quick touch-ups, but impractical to use as your only cleaning product. You can expect to use several if you plan to clean up a large area, which makes them a little pricey in the minds of some users.
Price at time of publish: $5
Type: Wipes | Amount: 30 | Safe for Use On: Granite, marble, soapstone, quartz and quartzite, slate, limestone, corian, laminate, and tile | Scent: Spring garden
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/spr-product-weiman-granite-cleaner-and-polish-30-wipes-jkim-0065-6ad76c2aea27489d9aef534430cf8072.jpg)
The Spruce / Joy Kim
Best Polish
Bar Keepers Friend Granite & Stone Cleaner and Polish Cleaning Kit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bar-keepers-friend-granite--stone-cleaner-and-polish-cleaning-kit-6c6b154ab9394524a8b1ca228b03ba5d.jpg)
Amazon
Dual-sided microfiber cloth included
Does not have citric acid
Safe for multiple surfaces
Gentle enough for daily use
Expensive
Bar Keeper’s Friend is a reliable choice for cleaning around the kitchen and home. The granite cleaner and polish kit comes with a spray formula and a microfiber cloth so you can get the best shine. It is safe for granite, quartz, silestone, and soapstone, and won’t scratch delicate surfaces, even with daily use. It does not include any citric acid, which can etch the surfaces of natural stone.
The included microfiber cloth adds to the overall price, but is very effective and also in line with García’s guidance. You can use a paper towel or rag with the polish, which is cheaper, but the dual-sided cloth cleans stains and residue with one side and buffs to a streak-free shine with the other. If you want the best tools along with an effective polish, it’s worth the slightly higher cost for this kit.
Price at time of publish: $18
Type: Spray | Amount: 25.4 fluid ounces | Safe for Use On: Granite, quartz, silestone, and soapstone | Scent: Unscented
Best Sealer
Trinova Granite Sealer and Protector
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Trinova-Granite-Sealer-and-Protector-e47af7ef5c994eb6b92a60d4eb2d7101.jpg)
Amazon
Good for multiple surfaces
Safe for grout
Good for resealing
Expensive
While it is pricey, the Trinova granite sealer and protector is the best way to seal your granite countertops or to provide an extra layer of protection. It is marketed for granite, but is also safe for other natural stones, including quartz, marble, quartzite, and soapstone. It comes in an easy-to-use spray bottle that is just like any other cleaner. Apply it directly to the surface and buff away any extra. The polymers in the formula create a sealed barrier on the granite. It is safe for grout, as well.
For the best results, the company recommends using the Trinova granite sealer and protector at least once per month. Because it is expensive, you may prefer to use a more affordable cleaner daily and add the Trinova into your cleaning rotation periodically to keep your countertops sealed. If your countertops absorb water or other liquids, it is essential to reseal them. This is a much easier and cheaper option than having them professionally sealed.
Price at time of publish: $20
Type: Spray | Amount: 18 fluid ounces | Safe for Use On: Granite, quartz, marble, quartzite, soapstone, and grout | Scent: Unscented
Best Daily
Therapy Granite & Stone Cleaner & Polish
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/therapy-granite--stone-cleaner--polish-4c0439154e6b4dac8988180ed2729de2.jpg)
Amazon
Plant-based formula
Mild scent
pH-balanced for frequent use
Expensive
Not for porous surfaces
This daily cleaner from Therapy is pH-balanced, so you never need to worry about wear and damage to your granite countertops over time with frequent use. It is also safe for other types of sealed natural stone, including marble, quartz, and onyx. It is not for porous surfaces, however, since the formula will soak in rather than clean.
The lemon scent is mild compared to many other scented cleaners and made with essential oils, which is one reason we like it for daily use. Rather than using harsher formulas regularly, you will be happy with this plant-based formula that is cruelty-free. It is a bit expensive, but not so pricey that you can’t use it daily. Buying the 2-pack also saves you money.
Price at time of publish: $25
Type: Spray | Amount: 16 fluid ounces | Safe for Use On: Granite, marble, quartz, and onyx | Scent: Lemon
Best Eco-Friendly
Better Life Granite and Stone Cleaner
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/better-life-granite-and-stone-cleaner-86d07df6e69d45d394266ab4560e1a7b.jpg)
Amazon
Gentle ingredients
Non-chemical fragrance
Refills reduce plastic waste
Not heavy-duty cleaner or degreaser
The cleaning agents in the Better Life formula come from soy, corn, and coconut rather than chemicals. These ingredients are gentle on delicate stone surfaces, including granite, marble, quartz, slate, concrete, limestone, travertine, terrazzo, silestone, and soapstone. The smell can be a bit strong, but comes from extracts of grapefruit and pomegranate. If you are sensitive to chemical fragrances, this may be a good choice that will still leave your home smelling fresh.
Notably, the formula isn’t strong enough to be very effective on the worst messes and grease, but is a great everyday choice for upkeep and polishing. The spray bottle holds 16 ounces of cleaner, but you can also purchase gallon-sized refills. This cuts down on plastic waste and allows you to reuse the spray bottle you already have. As long as it remains in workable condition, you will be happy that you are also keeping waste out of the landfill with your cleaning routine.
Price at time of publish: $13
Type: Spray | Amount: 16 fluid ounces | Safe for Use On: Granite, marble, quartz, slate, concrete, limestone, travertine, terrazzo, silestone, and soapstone | Scent: Pomegranate grapefruit
Best for Stains
Black Diamond Granite Plus 2-in-1 Cleaner & Sealer
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/black-diamond-granite-plus-2-in-1-cleaner--sealer-c5eec5d7dcc24aa388facf6bc86749ea.jpg)
Amazon
Effective on a variety of stains
Safe for multiple surfaces
Creates protective barrier against future stains
Strong scent
This formula is pH-balanced for natural stone surfaces, but strong enough to tackle stains and messes from oil, coffee, food, and wine. Even things like oily peanut butter can be cleaned up, and stains can be removed. Just spray the cleaner on the surface and let it penetrate the stain before wiping away the excess.
While it is unscented, the chemical odor can be a bit strong, so try it out in a ventilated area first if you are sensitive to fragrances. While the cleaner does enhance your countertop’s protective barrier, you should only use it on sealed surfaces. With regular use, it will lead to fewer stains, and those that do occur will be easier to clean.
Price at time of publish: $20
Type: Spray | Amount: 32 fluid ounces | Safe for Use On: Granite, marble, travertine, and limestone | Scent: Unscented
Best for Soap Scum
Granite Gold Shower Cleaner
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/granite-gold-shower-cleaner-7083fe4e9aca4d0191bc4f4223ce9878.jpg)
Amazon
Protects surface from future soap scum
Safe for a variety of surfaces
Streak-free cleaning even on glass
May not clean fixtures as effectively
If you have granite in your bathroom, it’s important to stay on top of your cleaning and maintenance to reduce soap scum and water spot buildup. The Granite Gold shower cleaner spray is safe for granite, marble, limestone, travertine, ceramic and glass tiles. It also doesn’t include ammonia or phosphates, which can be harmful to surfaces and cause problems and discomfort if you don’t ventilate your area properly when cleaning. Fortunately, this effective cleaner works to get rid of soap scum and actually keeps it from forming with regular use.
While it won’t harm most bathroom fixtures and finishes, it may not be the most effective cleaner for stainless steel or chrome. Make sure you test it in a small, inconspicuous area first before spraying it over the entire surface. It does work well on glass and even delivers a streak-free shine when used with a soft cloth or paper towel.
Price at time of publish: $13
Type: Spray | Amount: 24 fluid ounces | Safe for Use On: Granite, marble, limestone, travertine, ceramic, and glass | Scent: Unscented
Our top pick is the Weiman Granite Cleaner and Polish for Daily Use. It is easy to find at most retailers, an effective cleaner and polish for a variety of surfaces, disinfects as it cleans, and delivers a streak-free, polished shine. The Formula 409 Stone and Steel Cleaner is a budget-friendly alternative that is also very effective at cleaning up small messes and spills daily.
What to Look for in a Granite Cleaner
Type of Cleaner
Granite cleaners come in sprays, liquids, and wipes. Sprays are the most common and often the easiest to apply and use. Liquids can be used on their own or as a refill in spray bottles. Wipes are the most convenient, but cost more per use. So, while you may want to reach for our favorite wipes, the Weiman Granite Wipes, keep in mind how much you will be cleaning your granite surfaces and how much you want to spend.
Formula and Ingredients
Look for a granite cleaner that is mild and pH-balanced for natural stone. Chemical ingredients and acids can damage the stone or the finish. Effective granite cleaners are often more gentle than mainstream cleaners in general, and there are even eco-friendly options, like the Better Life Natural Granite and Stone Cleaner, available. They may just require extra elbow grease on your part.
If you do damage the finish, it can be costly to repair and sometimes cannot be fixed at all. Because of this, we always recommend testing a new cleaner in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface.
Application Method
When using a spray cleaner, you will need a separate cleaning cloth or paper towel. We prefer a microfiber cloth for the best streak-free shine—per the advice of Krissia García, CEO and founder of KrissKlean. Paper towels are also effective, although you should expect to go through a lot of them when cleaning a large surface.
Wipes do not require these application tools but are more expensive themselves. García does not recommend using a sponge on granite as it can damage the surface.
Scent
Many granite cleaners use a citrus-based scent, which works very well when cleaning kitchen and bathroom countertops. Some are unscented, but can still have a chemical smell that some people find unappealing. If you are sensitive to fragrances, consider a cleaner that uses essential oils or is unscented.
-
Can you clean granite with vinegar?
Cleaning granite and natural stone surfaces with vinegar occasionally will not harm them, but frequent use can weaken the sealant and ultimately damage the surface. Instead, look for a cleaner that is pH-balanced for sealed natural stone. Not only do these cleaners not harm the granite, they can actually enhance the seal and protect the surface more over time.
-
How do you keep granite countertops shiny?
Look for a daily use granite cleaner that includes a polish to keep your granite countertops shiny. Not only does this take care of messes and spills, it also creates a protective barrier that keeps your granite in the best shape possible. When you apply it with a lint-free cloth, the shine looks even better and is streak-free.
-
How often should you seal granite?
The best frequency to seal granite depends on the wear and tear, as well as the environment and products used on the surface. At a minimum, you should reseal your granite every six months. Some granite polish and sealants can be used monthly to enhance the seal and shine.
Using a daily cleaner formulated for granite can prolong the need to reseal. Put a few drops of water onto the surface to see if it is time to reseal. If they soak in within 30 minutes, you need to reseal the granite. If they bead up on the surface, the protective layer is still effective.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Katie Begley, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. Begley has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. To compile this list, she considered products she had used and tested, as well as insight from expert cleaner Krissia García, CEO and founder of KrissKlean. Gentle ingredients and tools that would not damage delicate natural stone surfaces were the most important factor.