Granite countertops have a glossy shine that can elevate the look of your kitchen, but to keep it, they need to be cleaned regularly. Granite is made up of a variety of materials, and because it's a natural stone, the porousness can vary from surface to surface. Although it's not as absorbent as a stone surface like marble, it's important that you soak up any spills as soon as they happen to avoid permanent staining.

Despite your best intentions, granite can be damaged by many cleaning products and techniques that would be safe on other countertop materials. Steer clear of using vinegar, glass cleaner, bleach or hydrogen peroxide to clean granite countertop stains, as regular use of acidic substances will dull granite and weaken the sealant over time. Similarly, never use steel wool or abrasive scrubbing pads on granite because these can scratch the surface, leaving you with difficult and costly repairs.

According to the majority of online cleaning tips, the best way to clean granite countertops is with mild dish soap and warm water. This method can surely get your countertops clean, but it won't help much in the way of polishing. Every time you use liquid soap, it leaves behind a thin later of residue. Over time, this layer gets thick enough to dull the surface of the counter.

Another popular method involves applying a baking soda paste to the stained area, covering it with plastic wrap, and taping down the edges. The catch is that you have to wait until the paste dries to continue cleaning, which can take up to a couple of days.

To keep your granite countertops looking beautiful for years to come, you'll need to clean them regularly with a non-abrasive cleaning solution. To avoid staining, wipe up spills as soon as you notice them, and use Simple Green Granite & Stone Cleaner to give your counters the look and cleanliness your kitchen deserves.

It's recommended that you clean granite countertops daily and disinfect them twice a week, in addition to immediate spot disinfecting after any use of raw meat, eggs or dairy products. Learn how to disinfect your countertops here.

You'll also need to reseal your countertops every two to four years. Everyday wear-and-tear slowly wears down the sealant, making your granite look dull and more vulnerable to stains.

Directions for Cleaning Granite Countertops:

When in doubt about a surface, always spot test a small, non-prominent area first, such as the underside of the ledge on your counter.

1. Clear countertops. Move appliances, dishes and other items onto a different surface.
2. Remove crumbs and debris. Wipe crumbs into your sink or trash can. You can use a plastic putty knife to scrape off any stuck-on food.
3. Spray Simple Green on the countertop. Apply Simple Green Granite & Stone Cleaner to the surface.
4. Scrub, if necessary. Use a non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth to thoroughly clean the surface without leaving scratches behind.
5. Wipe away. Thoroughly wipe down the counter with a damp sponge, non-abrasive cloth or paper towel to ensure you're left with a residue-free surface.
6. Air dry. Allow the surface to dry before replacing appliances and dishes.
7. For best results, follow each cleaning with Simple Green Granite & Stone Polish.

TIP: Make sure you're always using cutting boards, trivets and hot pads to protect your granite counters from dangers outside of stains.