Granite sinks are beautiful, but they can also be difficult to maintain.
They require regular cleaning to prevent the buildup of soap scum and mineral deposits.
In addition, since granite is porous, water can seep into the sink and cause damage to the surface.
Luckily, there are many ways to clean a granite sink without using harsh chemicals.
Here’s a simple guide to cleaning a granite sink.
Step 1: Remove any food particles from the sink.
Food particles can attract bacteria and cause stains.
To remove food particles, use a sponge or soft brush to scrub the sink.
Step 2: Wash the sink with warm water.
Warm water removes soap residue and helps dissolve soap scum.
Use a spray bottle filled with warm water to wash the sink.
Step 3: Rinse the sink.
Rinse the sink with cold water after washing it with warm water.
This step rinses away soap scum and loosens dirt stuck to the sink.
Step 4: Use a mild dish detergent.
A mild dish detergent cleans without leaving streaks or spots.
Choose one that contains no bleach or ammonia.
Mix one cup of liquid dish detergent with two cups of lukewarm water.
Add a drop of liquid dishwashing detergent to the rinse cycle of your dishwasher.
Step 5: Scrub the sink.
Scrub the sink with a sponge or soft brush.
Rub the sink gently to loosen stubborn stains.
Step 6: Wipe down the sink.
After scrubbing, wipe up spills and splashes with a damp cloth.
Step 7: Dry the sink.
Dry the sink with a towel or squeegee.
Do this immediately after wiping up spills and splashes.
If you don’t dry the sink right away, moisture will condense on the surface and create new stains.
Step 8: Clean the faucet.
Clean the faucet by removing the aerator and running hot water through it for 30 seconds.
Run the tap until all the bubbles disappear.
Then run cold water through the faucet for another 30 seconds.
Step 9: Clean the drain.
Clean the drain in the same way as the faucet. Run hot water through the drain for 30 seconds.
Then run cold tap water through the drain for another 30 seconds. This step flushes out debris trapped in the pipe.
Step 10: Clean the countertop.
The easiest way to clean a granite countertop is to use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
Mix equal parts of each ingredient and pour them onto a wet rag.
Apply the solution to the entire countertop and let sit for 20 minutes.
Then scrub the area with a sponge.
When finished, rinse the area with clear water.
How do I Keep Clean My Granite Kitchen Sink?
- Granite sinks are porous, so they require regular maintenance.
- Cleaning granite sinks require specialized products.
- Granite sinks must be cleaned frequently.
- Granite sink cleaners contain abrasives that can damage the surface.
- The right type of cleaner is essential.
- Abrasive cleaners may scratch the surface of the sink.
- Using too much soap can cause water spots.
- Water spots can be removed with a sponge and mild detergent.
- Use a soft brush to remove stubborn stains.
- Scrubbing the sink with steel wool can damage the finish.
- To prevent scratches, use a plastic scrub pad instead.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals such as ammonia.
- Wipe down the sink after each use.
- Never leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight.
- Remove food particles from the drain with a strainer.
- Rinse out the strainer often.
- If necessary, run warm water to flush away any remaining debris.
- After washing, rinse the sink thoroughly.
- Dry the sink immediately.
- Store cleaning supplies in a cabinet.
- Make sure the sink has plenty of ventilation.
- Clean the sink once every two weeks.
- Clean the faucets regularly.
- Clean the spout and handles with a toothbrush dipped in vinegar.
- Clean the overflow hole with an old rag soaked in vinegar.
- Replace the rubber washer under the handle.
- Change the filter monthly.
- Clean the grates regularly.
- Clean under the sink with a damp cloth.
What Not To Use On Granite Composite Sinks?
- Do not use bleach.
- Do not use ammonia-based cleaners.
- Do not put anything acidic near your sink.
- Do not place anything metal or glass around your sink.
- Avoid putting things like salt, sugar, coffee, tea, etc. into the sink.
- Avoid placing heavy objects on top of your sink.
- Avoid putting items directly into the drain (such as hair).
- Avoid putting grease or oil into the drain.
- Avoid putting paper towels or tissues into the drain.
- Avoid putting baby wipes into the drain.
FAQs
Q: How long should I wait before cleaning my granite kitchen sink?
A: It depends on how often you use your sink.
For daily use, we recommend cleaning at least twice per week.
Q: What kind of cleaner should I use to clean my granite kitchen sink? Do I need special cleaners?
A: You can use any household cleaner.
We recommend using only non-abrasive cleaners.
Q: Can I use dishwasher detergent to clean my granite kitchen sinks?
A: Dishwasher detergents usually contain enzymes that will dissolve grease and another residue.
However, these detergents also contain phosphorous or chlorine which could stain the sink.
Q: How often should I clean my granite kitchen sink?
A: We recommend cleaning your granite sink about twice per week.
If you have heavy usage, then it’s recommended to clean more often.
Q: Is there anything I should know when cleaning my granite kitchen sink?
A: Yes!
Before cleaning your granite sink, make sure you read our article “How To Clean Your Granite Countertops”.
Also, make sure you don’t mix up your cleaning solutions.
Use different types of cleaners for different surfaces.