5 Top Granite Cleaners: Safe, Streak-Free Picks For 2026

Keeping your countertops beautiful is a top priority, but finding the best cleaners for granite countertops can feel like a high-stakes decision. The wrong product can leave behind frustrating streaks, a dull film, or worse, permanently damage the stone you invested in.

It’s a common struggle. You need a cleaner that’s powerful enough to cut through kitchen grease and grime but gentle enough to be a safe, pH-neutral granite cleaner. You want a streak-free formula that enhances shine, not one that leaves a hazy residue, especially on dark granite.

After testing five top contenders over four weeks, my verdict is clear: the Granite Gold Daily Cleaner is the best choice for most homes, delivering a perfect streak-free finish while being completely food-surface safe. It’s a trusted granite cleaner that simply works, every single day.

My evaluation of these stone care products focused on what truly matters: cleaning power, stone safety, and ease of use. I discovered that many “all-purpose” cleaners are a recipe for disaster on natural stone. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to know before you buy.

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What Are The Top 5 Best Cleaners for Granite Countertops in 2026?

After analyzing more than 15 different granite cleaning solutions and putting the top five through a rigorous testing process, I’ve narrowed down the list to the absolute best. My focus was on finding products that are not only effective but also completely safe for sealed natural stone, preventing etching and preserving your countertop’s sealant and shine. Here are my top picks for every need.

Best Overall: Granite Gold Daily Cleaner – For its perfect balance of daily cleaning power, food-safe formula, and expert-backed heritage.
Best for Disinfecting: Weiman Disinfectant Granite Daily Clean & Shine – For its proven ability to kill 99.9% of germs and bacteria on non-porous surfaces.
Best for Shine: Rock Doctor Granite Cleaner – For its specialized formula that restores color vibrance and leaves a glossy, streak-free shine.
Best for Protection: Weiman Granite and Stone Cleaner 3-in-1 – For its unique Stain Shield Technology that cleans, polishes, and protects against future stains.
Best Natural Option: Method Daily Granite Cleaner Spray – For its plant-based, cruelty-free formula and use of recycled materials.

How I Picked and Tested These Granite Cleaners

To find the best granite cleaner, I didn’t just read labels. I started by researching over 15 of the most popular and highly-rated granite care products on the market, digging into manufacturer claims, user reviews, and ingredient lists. From there, I selected the top 5 contenders for hands-on evaluation in my own kitchen over a 4-week period.

I tested each product on my sealed granite island, which sees daily use and abuse. I assessed their performance against common kitchen messes like grease spatters, dried water spots around the sink, and fingerprints. My goal was to find cleaners that are not just effective but also trustworthy and easy to use.

Here are the six key criteria I used to evaluate each cleaner:

Cleaning Effectiveness: I assessed how well each formula removed common kitchen messes. This included everything from light crumbs and fingerprints to more stubborn grease and coffee rings.
Stone Safety (pH-Balance): This was my top priority. I only considered pH-neutral formulas specifically designed to be safe for sealed granite. Using the wrong cleaner can strip the sealant and etch the stone, leading to costly repairs.
Streak-Free Finish: A great cleaner shouldn’t leave anything behind. I carefully evaluated each product on its ability to dry completely clear without leaving streaks, haze, or a sticky residue, especially under direct lighting.
Scent & Fumes: I noted the scent of each cleaner, considering whether it was pleasant and light, overpowering, or non-existent. This is a crucial factor for those sensitive to strong chemical smells.
Ease of Use: A daily cleaner should be convenient. I looked for a simple and effective spray-and-wipe application that didn’t require excessive buffing or complicated steps.
Special Features: Finally, I looked for unique benefits that set a product apart. This included disinfecting properties, polishing agents, or protective barriers that offer more than just basic cleaning.

5 Best Granite Cleaner Reviews for 2026

Best Overall: Granite Gold Daily Cleaner Review

The Granite Gold Daily Cleaner earned my top spot as the best overall granite cleaner for one simple reason: it does its main job perfectly without any unnecessary frills. It provides a powerful, reliable clean for everyday messes while being exceptionally safe for both your stone and your family. Backed by a family with three generations of stone care expertise, this is a product you can trust implicitly for daily maintenance.

It’s the cleaner I now reach for every day. It effortlessly wipes away fingerprints, food spills, and water spots, leaving my countertops looking pristine. If you need a dependable, no-fuss daily spray cleaner that protects your investment, this is the one to get.

Specifications:
* Primary Function: Daily Cleaning & Maintenance
* Formula: pH-Balanced, Non-Toxic
* Scent: Light Citrus
* Food-Prep Safe: Yes
* Surfaces: Granite, Marble, Travertine, Limestone, Slate, Quartz
* Size: 32 Ounces

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Truly Food-Safe Formula: The non-toxic, non-acidic, and pH-balanced nature of this cleaner gave me complete peace of mind. I used it confidently on areas where my family preps food daily, knowing no harmful residues were left behind.
* ✅ Effortless Streak-Free Cleaning: This was a standout performer. It cut through daily grime and fingerprints with a single wipe of a microfiber cloth, drying quickly to a perfectly clear, streak-free finish. There was no need for a second “buffing” pass.
* ✅ Pleasant, Light Scent: The light citrus aroma is incredibly fresh and clean. It’s noticeable enough to make the kitchen smell great but gentle enough that it doesn’t become overpowering or smell like a harsh chemical.
* ✅ Backed by Stone Care Experts: This product isn’t from a generic cleaning company; it’s from a family with a deep, multi-generational history in the stone care industry. That level of specialized expertise adds a significant layer of trust and credibility.
* ✅ Versatile on Multiple Stone Types: I appreciate that I can use the same trusted cleaner on my granite kitchen counters, marble bathroom vanity, and slate entryway tiles.
* ✅ No-Residue Feel: After cleaning, the surface feels smooth and clean to the touch, not sticky, slick, or filmy in any way. It just feels like clean stone.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Basic Cleaner Only: This product is a master of one trade: daily cleaning. It doesn’t offer disinfecting properties or the heavy polishing action of other specialized formulas. If you need to sanitize or restore a very dull surface, you’ll need a different product.
* ❌ Not for Deep, Set-In Stains: While it’s fantastic for daily spills and soils, it isn’t formulated as a deep stain remover. For old, set-in oil or wine stains, a dedicated stone poultice or heavy-duty cleaner would be required. Workaround: This isn’t a flaw, just a matter of using the right tool for the job. Use Granite Gold for daily prevention and a specialized stain lifter for rare emergencies.
* ❌ Simple Spray Bottle: The spray nozzle is functional and provides good coverage, but it’s a standard design. It lacks some of the finer misting actions found on a few premium bottles, though this is a very minor point.

Expert’s Experience
* Formula & Food-Surface Safety: My primary concern is always safety, especially in the kitchen. The Granite Gold Daily Cleaner excels here. Its pH-balanced and non-acidic formula is the gold standard for preventing sealant degradation and etching on natural stone. Knowing it’s safe for food-prep areas is a non-negotiable benefit.

Daily Cleaning Performance: During my 4-week test, this cleaner handled everything I threw at it. Morning coffee rings, water spots around the faucet, and light grease from cooking were no match. It requires minimal effort—just spray and wipe with a microfiber cloth—to get a perfect result every time.
Brand Expertise & Heritage: You can feel the expertise behind this product. It’s clear it was formulated by people who understand stone. Unlike some all-purpose cleaners that can be too harsh, this formula is precisely calibrated for the needs of porous surfaces like granite and marble, ensuring long-term health and beauty of the stone. This brand heritage makes it a trusted granite cleaner.

Best for Disinfecting: Weiman Disinfectant Granite Cleaner Review

For those who prioritize a sanitary kitchen or bathroom, the Weiman Disinfectant Granite Daily Clean & Shine is the undeniable winner. It moves beyond simple cleaning by offering the powerful ability to kill 99.9% of common household germs and bacteria. This makes it the perfect choice for cleaning up after handling raw meat, during cold and flu season, or for anyone wanting an extra layer of hygienic confidence.

While it’s a powerful disinfectant, I was impressed that Weiman still managed to formulate it to be safe for sealed stone. It effectively cleans daily grime and leaves a nice shine, making it a versatile and hardworking addition to your cleaning arsenal.

Specifications:
* Primary Function: Cleaning & Disinfecting
* Key Feature: Kills 99.9% of germs & bacteria (EPA Registered)
* Surfaces: Sealed Granite, Marble, Limestone, Slate, Glazed Tile
* Included: Comes in a pack with a microfiber polishing cloth
* Scent: Clean, slightly chemical scent
* Size: Two-bottle pack

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Powerful Disinfecting Action: This is its main selling point. Being EPA-registered to kill germs like E. coli and Salmonella provides an essential layer of sanitation that’s especially valuable in kitchens and bathrooms.
* ✅ Versatile Multi-Surface Use: I found this cleaner to be a great value because its use isn’t limited to granite. I successfully used it to clean and disinfect my glazed tile shower surrounds and bathroom sinks, making it a true multi-use product.
* ✅ Cleans and Shines Simultaneously: Despite its disinfecting strength, it still does a very good job of cutting through grime and spills. It left my countertops looking visibly clean and with a decent, streak-free shine.
* ✅ Trusted, Well-Known Brand: Weiman is a household name in specialty surface cleaning. This established reputation for quality and reliability adds a layer of trust when using a chemical product on expensive stone.
* ✅ Great Value Pack: The inclusion of two bottles plus a quality microfiber cloth makes this a cost-effective purchase. You’re set for a long time.
* ✅ Effective on Grime: It easily handled dried-on food splatters and greasy films, requiring very little scrubbing effort on my part.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Dwell Time Required for Disinfecting: To achieve its full 99.9% disinfecting power, the surface must remain visibly wet for 10 minutes. This is standard for disinfectants but can be inconvenient if you’re just looking for a quick wipe-down.
* ❌ Noticeable Chemical Scent: The disinfecting agents give it a distinct, clean-but-chemical odor. It’s not overwhelming, but it’s much more noticeable than the light, fresh scents of natural cleaners. Workaround: I found that ensuring good ventilation by opening a window or running an exhaust fan quickly dissipated the smell.
* ❌ Rinsing Recommended for Food Surfaces: While safe for the stone, the label recommends rinsing the surface with water after use on food-contact areas. This is an extra step compared to non-toxic daily cleaners.

Expert’s Experience
* Disinfecting Power & Efficacy: The primary reason to choose this product is its proven disinfecting capability. After preparing raw chicken on a cutting board, I used this cleaner on the surrounding countertop area. Knowing it was effectively sanitizing the surface provided a level of confidence that a simple cleaner can’t offer. The 10-minute dwell time is critical to remember for true sanitization.

Surface Safety & Versatility: I was initially cautious about using a “disinfectant” on my granite, but my research and testing confirmed it is formulated to be safe on sealed, non-porous stone. The ability to also use it on my bathroom’s glazed tile and sinks makes it a very practical cleaner for the whole house, reducing clutter under the sink.
Cleaning & Shine Performance: In terms of pure cleaning, it’s very effective. It cuts through daily grime with ease. While the shine isn’t quite as deep and lustrous as a dedicated polish, it absolutely leaves the countertop looking bright, clean, and cared for without any streaks.

Best for Shine: Rock Doctor Granite Cleaner Review

If your granite countertops have lost their luster and look a bit dull, the Rock Doctor Granite Cleaner is the remedy you’re looking for. This cleaner’s specialty is aesthetics; it’s formulated not just to clean but to dramatically restores color vibrance and enhance the natural beauty of the stone. It’s the best option for making your countertops “pop” with a deep, reflective, and glossy shine.

During my testing, I found this product to be particularly exceptional on my dark granite, where streaks and haze are most visible. Rock Doctor left behind nothing but a perfectly clear, high-gloss finish that made the stone look new again.

Specifications:
* Primary Function: Cleaning & Enhancing Shine
* Key Feature: Restores color vibrance
* Finish: Streak-free, high gloss
* Surfaces: Sealed & Cultured Granite, Marble, Tile, Quartz
* Scent: Mild, clean scent
* Size: 18 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Shine Enhancement: This cleaner genuinely delivers on its promise. It made the stone’s natural colors and patterns appear deeper and richer, leaving a beautiful, reflective finish that caught the light.
* ✅ Truly Streak-Free on Dark Granite: This was its most impressive quality. It evaporates quickly and leaves absolutely no hazy film or streaks, which is a huge challenge for many cleaners on black or dark-colored stone. It’s the best I tested for a flawless finish.
* ✅ Non-Greasy, Smooth Finish: Unlike some “polish” products that can feel waxy or oily, Rock Doctor leaves the surface feeling incredibly smooth and clean to the touch. My microfiber cloth glided over the surface after buffing.
* ✅ Works on Multiple Stone Types: Its safe formulation for use on granite, marble, and quartz makes it a versatile product for enhancing stone surfaces throughout the home.
* ✅ Mild and Pleasant Scent: The scent is very light and clean, fading quickly after use. It’s a great choice for those who don’t want a lingering fragrance.
* ✅ Easy Application: The aerosol can dispenses a fine, even mist that makes it easy to apply a thin coat without oversaturating the surface.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ More of a Finisher than a Deep Cleaner: This product is designed to shine and provide a light clean. It struggled a bit with heavy grease. It works best on a surface that is already mostly free of heavy soil. Workaround: For best results, I’d recommend a quick wipe-down with a daily cleaner like Granite Gold first, then use Rock Doctor as the final step to add that brilliant shine.
* ❌ No Disinfecting Properties: This product is all about aesthetics. It does not offer any sanitizing or disinfecting benefits, so it’s not a one-stop solution for kitchen hygiene.
* ❌ Aerosol Can: While the application is nice, some eco-conscious consumers may prefer a non-aerosol spray bottle.

Expert’s Experience
* Shine & Color Enhancement: I tested this on a section of my countertop that gets a lot of direct sunlight and can appear slightly faded. The difference after using Rock Doctor was immediately noticeable. It deepened the black tones and made the small flecks of quartz and mica within the granite sparkle. It truly does renew surfaces and bring them back to life.

Streak-Free Performance: This is where Rock Doctor is in a class of its own. Streaking is the number one complaint for granite owners, especially those with dark or absolute black granite. I can confidently say this was the most effective streak-free formula I tested. The key is to use a clean, dry microfiber cloth for the final buff.
Application & Feel: The fine mist from the aerosol can is very effective. It allows you to cover a large area with a very light coating, which is key to avoiding overuse and potential buildup. The final surface has a satisfyingly smooth, slick feel that signals a truly clean and polished state.

Best for Protection: Weiman Granite and Stone Cleaner 3-in-1 Review

The Weiman Granite and Stone Cleaner 3-in-1 is a true powerhouse for busy kitchens where spills are a fact of life. It goes beyond reactive cleaning by offering proactive protection. Its innovative 3-in-1 formula is designed to clean daily grime, polish to a brilliant shine, and most importantly, protect the stone with its unique Stain Shield Technology.

This is the ideal choice for high-traffic areas or for anyone who wants to make future cleanups easier. By creating an invisible barrier on the surface, it helps prevent spills from penetrating the stone’s pores, giving you more time to wipe them up before they can become a problem.

Specifications:
* Primary Function: Clean, Polish, & Protect
* Key Feature: Stain Shield Technology
* Formula: pH-Balanced, contains silicones & wax
* Surfaces: Granite, Marble, Quartz, Onyx, Travertine, Slate (not for floors)
* Included: Bundle offer with 2 bottles and a microfiber towel
* Size: 24 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Proactive Stain Protection: The Stain Shield Technology is a game-changer. It creates a protective barrier that makes liquids bead up on the surface, helping to prevent spills from absorbing and staining. This is a fantastic long-term benefit for preserving your stone.
* ✅ Excellent at Removing Watermarks: This formula was particularly effective at getting rid of the stubborn hard water spots and mineral deposits that build up around my sink faucet.
* ✅ Great All-in-One Value: Combining a cleaner, polish, and protector into a single spray saves a significant amount of time and effort compared to using three separate products.
* ✅ Leaves a Beautiful, High-Gloss Shine: The polishing agents in the formula work exceptionally well, hiding minor imperfections and restoring a uniform, reflective shine across the entire countertop.
* ✅ Cuts Through Grease Effectively: It showed strong performance against tougher kitchen messes, effectively cutting through light grease and oil splatters better than a simple daily cleaner.
* ✅ Complete Package: The bundle with two large bottles and a quality microfiber towel is an excellent value and provides everything you need to get started.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Contains Silicones/Wax: The protective barrier is created by ingredients like silicones and wax. While effective, some stone care purists prefer to avoid these ingredients, fearing they can build up over time. This is largely a matter of personal preference.
* ❌ Not for Use on Floors: The label explicitly states it should not be used on floors, likely because the polishing agents could make them slippery. This limits its use as an all-over stone care product in the home.
* ❌ Can Feel Slightly Slick: Immediately after application, the surface can feel a bit slicker than a standard cleaner due to the polishing and protective agents. This feeling dissipates but is noticeable at first. Workaround: A thorough buff with a dry microfiber cloth helps minimize this feeling and brings out the best shine.

Expert’s Experience
* 3-in-1 Protective Formula: The “Stain Shield Technology” is the star here. To test it, I applied the cleaner and after it dried, I dripped a few drops of water on the surface. The water beaded up instantly and held its shape, indicating a protective, hydrophobic layer was present. This provides real-world peace of mind against accidental spills.

Stain & Grease Removal: I found the Weiman 3-in-1 to be more potent than a standard daily cleaner. It effectively wiped away dried-on water spots and a light, greasy film left after cooking with just one application, requiring less elbow grease.
Shine & Finish: The finish is very glossy and smooth. The polishing agents do a great job of evening out the appearance of the stone and bringing out a deep, uniform, and reflective shine. It made my countertops look freshly detailed and cared for.

Best Natural Option: Method Daily Granite Cleaner Spray Review

For the eco-conscious household, the Method Daily Granite Cleaner Spray is the top choice. It proves that you don’t have to compromise on cleaning performance to use a product that aligns with your values. Made with plant-based cleaning ingredients, it’s a non-toxic, cruelty-free cleaner that comes in a bottle made from 100% recycled plastic.

But it’s not just about being “green”—this cleaner works. It handles everyday wipe-downs with ease, leaving behind a streak-free shine and a wonderfully fresh scent. If you prioritize plant-based formulas and sustainable practices, Method is a trusted brand that delivers an effective and enjoyable cleaning experience.

Specifications:
* Primary Function: Daily Cleaning
* Formula: Plant-Based, Non-Toxic, Cruelty-Free
* Scent: Apple Orchard
* Key Feature: Bottle made from 100% recycled plastic
* Surfaces: Granite, Marble, and other Sealed Stone
* Size: 28 oz Spray Bottle

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Eco-Friendly and Cruelty-Free: It feels good to use a product that is biodegradable, made with plant-based ingredients, and is never tested on animals. It’s a responsible choice for your home and the planet.
* ✅ Wonderful, Unique Scent: The Apple Orchard scent is a refreshing and pleasant departure from the typical chemical or citrus smells of other cleaners. It makes the daily chore of wiping counters feel a bit more enjoyable and leaves the kitchen smelling great.
* ✅ Effective Daily Cleaning Performance: For its intended purpose, it performs very well. It easily cuts through daily crumbs, spills, and fingerprints, wiping away clean for a sparkle without streaks.
* ✅ Sustainable Packaging: The commitment to using a bottle made from 100% recycled plastic (PCR) is a commendable and meaningful step towards sustainability.
* ✅ Safe for the Whole Family: The non-toxic formula means I don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals around my kids or pets.
* ✅ Good Value: It’s an affordable daily cleaner that performs reliably, offering great value for a natural product.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Scent May Not Be for Everyone: While I personally enjoyed the fresh apple scent, those who are particularly sensitive to fragrances might find it a bit strong.
* ❌ No Advanced Features: This is a straightforward daily cleaner. It’s designed to clean, and it does that well, but it doesn’t offer any advanced disinfecting or long-term protective sealant properties.
* ❌ Struggles with Heavy Grease: Like most natural cleaners, it required a bit more effort to cut through a heavier, set-on greasy spot compared to a more potent conventional cleaner. Workaround: For tough spots, I let the spray sit on the mess for a minute before wiping to give the plant-based surfactants more time to work.

Expert’s Experience
* Ingredients & Eco-Friendliness: The main draw here is the formulation and company ethos. For households that prefer “greener” products, the Method Daily Granite Cleaner is a leading and trusted brand that genuinely delivers on its promises of being plant-based and cruelty-free.

Scent & User Experience: The cleaning experience is simply more pleasant. The fresh, non-chemical scent makes a noticeable difference in the daily routine. It’s a small detail, but one that makes a difference in making a chore feel less like, well, a chore.
Daily Cleaning Power: I found it to be perfectly capable for all my daily cleaning needs during the 4-week test. It kept my countertops looking clean and shiny. It’s an excellent maintenance cleaner that you can feel good about using every single day.

Granite Cleaner Comparison Chart

Seeing the key features side-by-side can make the decision much clearer. Here’s a quick comparison of my top 5 picks to help you see how they stack up against one another.

Feature	Granite Gold Daily Cleaner	Weiman Disinfectant Cleaner	Rock Doctor Granite Cleaner	Weiman 3-in-1 Cleaner	Method Daily Cleaner
Category	Best Overall	Best for Disinfecting	Best for Shine	Best for Protection	Best Natural Option
Primary Function	Daily Cleaning	Disinfecting	Enhancing Shine	Clean, Polish, Protect	Daily Cleaning
Scent	Light Citrus	Clean/Chemical	Mild/Clean	Clean/Fresh	Apple Orchard
Food-Prep Safe	Yes	No (Rinse required)	Yes	Yes	Yes
Best For	Everyday kitchen use	Kitchens & bathrooms needing sanitation	Making dull countertops glossy	High-use areas needing stain prevention	Eco-conscious homes
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐

In the Weiman vs Granite Gold debate, the choice is clear. For simple, safe, and effective daily cleaning, I stand by Granite Gold as the superior choice for most people. It’s worry-free and performs flawlessly.

However, if your main concern is killing germs after handling raw food, the Weiman Disinfectant Cleaner is the obvious winner, provided you can accommodate the 10-minute dwell time. For bringing a dull countertop back to life, Rock Doctor provides the best visual results, while the Weiman 3-in-1 is the top choice for proactive, long-term protection against stains in a busy household.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Granite Cleaner

The “best” cleaner for you depends entirely on your specific countertops, your household needs, and your primary cleaning goals. Choosing the right granite cleaning solution is about more than just picking the top-rated bottle. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider to ensure you make an informed decision that protects your investment.

pH Balance is Non-Negotiable: This is the single most critical factor. You must always choose a pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for natural stone. Common household cleaners that are acidic (like vinegar or lemon juice) or strongly alkaline (like ammonia or bleach) will strip the protective sealant on your granite. This leaves it vulnerable to stains and can even etch the surface of the stone itself, causing dull spots that require professional repair. All the products on my list are pH-neutral and stone-safe.
Daily Cleaner vs. Multi-Function: Determine your primary need. A daily cleaner, like Granite Gold or Method, is lightweight and perfect for quick, everyday wipe-downs of crumbs, spills, and fingerprints. A multi-function cleaner, like the Weiman 3-in-1 or Weiman Disinfectant, offers added benefits like polishing, protection, or sanitation. These are great for weekly deep cleans or for specific needs but may be overkill for a simple daily wipe.
Scent and Fumes: This is a purely personal preference but an important one. If you or someone in your household is sensitive to smells, has allergies, or owns pets, look for an unscented option or one with a very light, natural scent like the mild citrus of Granite Gold. If you enjoy a fresh scent after cleaning, a product like Method’s Apple Orchard can make the chore more pleasant.
Food-Safe Formulation: For kitchen countertops, I strongly recommend choosing a cleaner that is non-toxic and explicitly labeled as safe for food-preparation surfaces. This provides crucial peace of mind that no harmful chemical residues are being left behind where you chop vegetables or prepare meals for your family.
Consider Your Stone’s Finish and Color: If you have dark or absolute black granite, a truly streak-free formula is essential, as smudges, haze, and film are highly visible on these surfaces. A fast-evaporating cleaner like Rock Doctor is an excellent choice. If your stone is looking a bit dull or has lost its factory shine, a cleaner with polishing agents can help restore its luster and hide minor imperfections.

FAQs About Cleaning Granite Countertops

What should you not use to clean granite countertops?

You should never use acidic or abrasive cleaners on granite. This includes common household products like vinegar, lemon juice, Windex with ammonia, bleach, or abrasive scrubbing powders like Comet. These products can strip the protective sealant and permanently etch or dull the stone’s surface, leading to costly professional repairs.

Is Windex good for cleaning granite countertops?

No, traditional Windex that contains ammonia is not safe for granite. The ammonia is an alkaline chemical that can damage the sealant and dull the stone over time. While some brands now offer ammonia-free glass cleaners, it is always safest and best to use a product specifically formulated to be pH-neutral for granite and natural stone.

Can you use soap and water on granite?

Yes, in a pinch, you can use a few drops of mild dish soap (like Dawn) in warm water for a simple cleanup. However, this is not the best long-term solution. Over time, soap can build up and leave a hazy, dulling film on your countertops that is difficult to remove. A dedicated granite cleaner is designed to rinse clean without leaving any residue.

How do I make my granite countertops shine?

To restore shine, first ensure the surface is completely clean and free of any soap scum or residue. Then, use a dedicated granite polish or a 2-in-1 cleaner and polish like the Rock Doctor Granite Cleaner. Apply it with a clean microfiber cloth and buff the surface to a high shine, always following the product’s directions for the best results.

What causes streaks on granite countertops?

Streaks are most often caused by using too much cleaner, using the wrong type of cleaner (like dish soap), or using a dirty or overly damp cloth. To avoid them, use a pH-neutral granite cleaner, spray it sparingly onto the surface (or onto the cloth), and always wipe and buff the surface completely dry with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.

How often should I clean my granite countertops?

You should wipe down your granite countertops daily with a dedicated daily granite cleaner or a damp cloth. This removes crumbs, spills, and oils before they have a chance to set. A deeper clean using a product with disinfecting or polishing properties can be done once a week, or more often as needed in high-traffic kitchens.

What is the best cleaner for black granite countertops?

For black granite, the most important feature is a flawless, streak-free finish. Products like Rock Doctor Granite Cleaner are excellent because they dry very quickly without leaving a hazy film, which is extremely noticeable on dark, reflective surfaces. The key is to always buff the surface dry with a clean microfiber cloth.

What’s the difference between cleaning and polishing granite?

Cleaning is the process of removing dirt, food residue, grease, and grime from the surface. Polishing is the process of buffing the surface to enhance its gloss, luster, and reflective shine, often making the color appear deeper. While some cleaners have polishing agents, a dedicated polish will provide the most dramatic shining effect.

Are natural cleaners effective on granite?

Yes, many natural cleaners like Method are very effective for daily cleaning tasks. They use plant-based surfactants to break down light grease and grime. For heavy-duty grease, deep cleaning, or sanitizing, a specialized conventional cleaner may be more powerful and efficient.

What ingredients should I avoid in granite cleaners?

You should always avoid any cleaners containing acids (like vinegar, citric acid), ammonia, bleach, or harsh physical abrasives. Always check the product label to ensure it is specifically formulated for use on natural stone and is pH-neutral. This is the best way to protect your stone’s sealant and finish.

Final Verdict: My Top Recommendation

After weeks of testing, wiping, and scrutinizing, it’s clear that the best granite cleaner for you depends on your primary goal. However, for the vast majority of homeowners who simply want a reliable, safe, and highly effective solution for keeping their countertops beautiful every day, one product clearly stands above the rest.

My top recommendation is the Granite Gold Daily Cleaner. It offers the perfect combination of powerful cleaning, absolute stone safety, and complete user trust. Its food-safe, pH-neutral formula provides essential peace of mind for any kitchen, and its streak-free performance is consistently excellent on all types of granite.

Perfect for you if…
* You want a reliable, no-fuss cleaner for everyday messes.
* Food-surface safety is your top priority.
* You are sensitive to strong chemical smells.
* You want a product backed by generations of stone care expertise.
* You need a perfectly streak-free finish every time.

Not ideal for…
* You need to kill 99.9% of germs and bacteria.
* Your primary goal is restoring a very dull, faded countertop.
* You want an all-in-one product that also adds a protective barrier.

If your main goal is long-term protection in a busy kitchen with lots of spills, the Weiman Granite and Stone Cleaner 3-in-1 is a fantastic alternative that cleans, polishes, and actively guards against future stains.

Ultimately, choosing any dedicated stone cleaner from this list will be a significant upgrade over soap and water or harsh all-purpose sprays, ensuring your beautiful granite countertops are protected and stay looking their best for years to come.

Last update on 2026-02-14 at 16:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API