How to Clean Granite Countertops

Keeping sealed granite countertops sparkling and germ-freedisinfected can be tricky because while their natural stone surface is beautiful, it requires careful cleaning to avoid damage. But with Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach and bleach-free alternatives like Clorox™ Disinfecting Wipes and Clorox™ Disinfecting All Purpose Cleaner, you can use this step-by-step guide to learn key tips for safely cleaning granite and protecting your countertops while keeping them spotless. 

For most homes, a simple daily wipe-down to remove crumbs, spills, and everyday residue is enough to keep sealed granite in great shape. A quick wipe after cooking or food prep helps prevent buildup and keeps the surface looking polished.

Plan on disinfecting sealed granite occasionally, such as after handling raw meat, during heavy kitchen use, or when you want a deeper clean. When needed, a properly diluted Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach solution can be used on sealed, bleach‑safe granite to disinfect and lift surface‑level buildup. Regular daily cleaning, paired with periodic disinfecting, helps keep granite countertops smooth, clean and well-maintained.

Yes. A properly diluted bleach solution can be used safely on sealed granite countertops as an EPA-registered disinfectant for hard, nonporous surfaces when used as directed. You can also use Clorox™ Clean‑Up™ Multi-Surface Cleaner + Bleach on sealed granite to tackle tough messes and help lift surface stains — always following label directions.

Be sure the surface is sealed, follow proper dilution instructions, and rinse thoroughly after use. Avoid using bleach on unsealed, damaged or highly worn granite.

To remove stains from granite, start by identifying the source—common culprits include water marks or rings, rust, soap residue, oil, vinegar, and coffee. Most everyday stains can be lifted with a [Clorox™ Disinfecting Wipe], while oil-based spots may require Clorox™ Clean-Up™ Multi-Surface Cleaner + Bleach. For rust or stubborn mineral deposits, use a nonabrasive cleaner formulated for stone surfaces to help restore the granite’s natural appearance without damaging the finish. 

For everyday stains:

• Wipe surface clean with Clorox™ Disinfecting Wipes.
• Let air dry.

For oil-based stains:

• Use Clorox™ Clean-Up™ Multi-Surface Cleaner + Bleach or properly diluted Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach to help lift surface‑level stains on sealed granite.
• Note: These products cannot remove deep-set stains that have penetrated beneath a worn or damaged sealant.

For mineral deposits or rust:

• Use a non‑abrasive stone cleaner formulated for granite and follow the product’s directions.
• Avoid acidic products — these can weaken the seal.

To keep sealed granite countertops looking their best, clean routinely with gentle wipes like Clorox™ Disinfecting Wipes or Clorox™ Disinfecting All Purpose Cleaner to remove residue from everyday messes. This helps maintain a clean, fresh surface without the need for harsh scrubbing. For added shine, occasionally buff the granite with a soft microfiber cloth to enhance its natural finish, no additional polish required.

Sealed granite countertops are durable, but they still need the right care to stay protected and looking their best. Harsh cleaners, abrasive scrubbing pads, and acidic ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice can break down the protective sealant and dull the surface over time, while letting spills —especially oils or deeply pigmented liquids — sit too long can lead to staining. Before choosing a DIY cleaner for granite, it’s important to understand which ingredients are safe and effective. Some DIY solutions can handle light residue, but most won’t sanitize or tackle tougher messes. The chart below breaks down common DIY cleaning ingredients and explains what they can — and can’t — do for granite countertops.

• Use our bleach ratio dilution chart to get the ratio of bleach to water right
• Always mix bleach with cool water — hot water breaks down the bleach
• Use freshly mixed solutions — bleach degrades over time when diluted
• Never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia, or any other cleaner — it can create dangerous fumes
• Wear gloves and ensure good ventilation during use