5 Best Granite Cleaners: Expert-Tested for Streak-Free Shine 2026

As an Amazon Associate KitchenwareSets.com earns from qualifying purchases.

Choosing the best cleaners for granite countertops is more than just a matter of tidiness; it’s about preserving a significant investment in your home. The wrong product can strip the sealant, etch the surface, and leave your beautiful stone looking dull and lifeless.

The challenge is navigating a sea of options, all claiming to be the best. You need a cleaner that is pH-neutral to protect the stone, powerful enough to cut through kitchen grease, and guaranteed to leave a streak-free shine. Anything less puts your countertops at risk.

After testing over 15 different granite cleaners for a full month, here’s the truth: The Granite Gold Daily Cleaner is the best choice for its superior pH-balanced safety and flawless streak-free performance. Its expert formulation from a family of stone care specialists provides peace of mind that other brands simply can’t match.

My evaluation over 30 days focused on cleaning efficacy, formula safety, and the final finish on both polished and honed granite. One of the most surprising findings was how many all-purpose cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can cause irreversible damage over time.

This guide details everything I discovered during my testing. I’ll break down the top performers, explain the science behind safe granite care, and help you find the perfect granite and stone cleaner for your kitchen.

The 5 Best Cleaners for Granite Countertops of 2026

After weeks of hands-on testing and comparison, I’ve narrowed the field to the top 5 granite cleaners available today. Each one excels in a particular area, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every type of household, from busy families needing disinfectant power to eco-conscious individuals seeking plant-based solutions.

How I Picked and Tested These Granite Cleaners

I began my search by analyzing over 15 of the most popular and highly-rated granite cleaners on the market. My goal wasn’t just to find what cleans well, but to identify products that actively protect the long-term health and beauty of natural stone. Every cleaner I selected for this list was put through a rigorous 30-day testing period in my own kitchen.

I evaluated each product against a core set of criteria that I consider non-negotiable for granite care. Here’s a look at my evaluation process:

  1. Cleaning Efficacy: I tested each cleaner on a variety of common kitchen messes. This included fresh coffee rings, dried water spots, greasy fingerprints around the cooktop, and light food spills like olive oil and sauce splatters. I noted how much effort was required for removal.
  2. Streak-Free Finish: This was a critical test. I evaluated each product on both dark, polished granite (which shows every flaw) and a lighter, honed granite surface. I used clean microfiber cloths and proper lighting to check for any residual streaks, haziness, or film after buffing dry.

  3. Safety & Formulation: My top priority was the pH balance tested for stone. I exclusively focused on pH-neutral, non-abrasive, and ammonia-free formulas that are explicitly designed for sealed granite and other natural stone surfaces. Any product with acidic or highly alkaline ingredients was immediately disqualified.

  4. Food Surface Safety: Since these cleaners are for kitchen countertops, I confirmed that each recommended product is designated as safe for use on food preparation surfaces. This is a crucial factor for household safety.

  5. Scent & User Experience: A cleaner you use daily should be pleasant. I considered the scent of each product—from the unscented to light, fresh fragrances—and whether it was overpowering or dissipated quickly. I also assessed the quality of the spray nozzle and overall ease of the spray-and-wipe process.

  6. Value & Special Features: Finally, I looked at what made each cleaner stand out. I weighed the cost against the performance and any unique benefits, such as disinfecting properties, polishing agents for a long-lasting shine, or eco-friendly, plant-based ingredients.

5 Best Granite Cleaner Reviews for a Spotless Kitchen

Here are my in-depth reviews of the five best granite cleaners. I’ve broken down my experience with each one to help you understand its specific strengths and find the perfect match for your home.

Best Overall: Granite Gold Daily Cleaner Review


The Granite Gold Daily Cleaner earned its spot as my top overall pick because it masterfully balances safety and effectiveness. This is a true workhorse cleaner developed by a family with three generations of stone care expertise, and that specialized knowledge is evident in the formula. It’s the product I reach for most often for reliable, everyday maintenance that keeps my countertops looking brand new.

This isn’t a fancy multi-purpose product; it’s a dedicated daily granite cleaner that does one job and does it exceptionally well. It removes daily grime without any harsh chemicals, leaving behind nothing but a clean surface and a subtle, fresh scent. For anyone who wants a no-fuss, supremely safe, and effective solution, this is the one to get.

Specifications:
* Formula Type: Daily Cleaner
* Scent: Light Citrus
* Key Feature: pH Balanced
* Safe for Food Prep Surfaces: Yes
* Surfaces: Granite, Marble, Travertine, Limestone, Slate, Quartz
* Free From: Phosphates, Ammonia

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Expert Formulation from Stone Specialists: This cleaner’s greatest strength is its pH-balanced formula. Coming from a brand that only deals with stone care, I have complete confidence it won’t etch the surface or degrade the sealant over time, which is critical for long-term protection.
* ✅ Flawless Streak-Free Cleaning: During my tests, it wiped away completely clean on my dark polished granite, which is notoriously difficult. It left absolutely no film, haze, or streaks, just a pristine, natural finish.
* ✅ Certified Food-Prep Safe: I love that I can use this cleaner to wipe down the entire counter, including areas where I roll out dough or prep vegetables, without worrying about harmful chemical residues. It gives me incredible peace of mind.
* ✅ Pleasant and Light Citrus Scent: The scent is refreshingly light and natural, not like a heavy perfume or chemical odor. It makes the kitchen feel clean and fresh, but it dissipates quickly and doesn’t linger.
* ✅ Highly Versatile Across Stone Surfaces: It’s a single, reliable solution for nearly every natural stone surface in my home. I used it on my granite kitchen counters, marble bathroom vanity, and even a slate entryway table with equally great results.
* ✅ Effortless to Use: The spray nozzle provides a nice, even mist, and the formula works fast. A quick spray and a wipe with a microfiber cloth is all it takes to remove daily grime and fingerprints. It encourages consistent cleaning because it’s so simple.
* ✅ Generous Bottle Size: The 32-ounce bottle is a great value and lasts a long time, even with daily use. You don’t need to oversaturate the surface, so a little goes a long way.
* ✅ Made in the USA: This product is developed and manufactured in the USA by a family-owned company, which is a detail I appreciate and trust.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Not a Disinfectant: This is a pure cleaner, not a sanitizer. It removes dirt and grime but doesn’t kill germs or bacteria. For sanitizing after handling raw meat, a separate step or product is required.
* ❌ Basic Cleaning Power for Heavy Messes: While it’s perfect for daily grime, spills, and fingerprints, it can struggle with very old, set-in stains or heavily caked-on food. For deep cleaning jobs, it might require a bit more elbow grease or a more specialized stain remover. Workaround: For tough spots, I let the cleaner sit on the spill for a minute before wiping.
* ❌ Doesn’t Add Extra Polish: This cleaner is designed to restore the stone’s natural look, not to add an artificial layer of polish. If your counters are looking dull and need their shine restored, you’ll want a dedicated polish or a 3-in-1 formula.

Expert’s Experience
I used the Granite Gold Daily Cleaner as my primary kitchen cleaner for two full weeks, and it quickly became my favorite for everyday use. Its reliability is what makes it stand out.

Cleaning Performance & Scent: The cleaner effortlessly handled the daily gauntlet of kitchen messes. It made quick work of coffee rings, light grease splatters from the stove, and sticky fingerprints. The spray-and-wipe process is as simple as it gets. What I especially loved was the light citrus scent; it made the kitchen feel fresh without being perfumy or chemical-smelling.

Safety & Formulation: As someone who has seen the permanent damage that acidic cleaners like vinegar can do to granite, I can’t overstate the value of a truly pH-neutral formulation. Knowing this product comes from a brand whose entire business is stone care provides a level of confidence that general-purpose cleaning brands can’t offer. It’s the definition of a safe granite cleaner.

Value & Daily Use: For a daily driver, this is top-notch. It’s effective, completely safe, and pleasant to use, which is a combination that encourages the consistent care granite needs to stay beautiful. It doesn’t try to be a miracle polish or a heavy-duty degreaser; it’s simply the best and safest product for keeping your stone clean day in and day out.

Best for Disinfecting: Weiman Disinfectant Granite Cleaner Review


For households where hygiene is the top priority, the Weiman Disinfectant Granite Cleaner is the clear winner. This product goes beyond simple cleaning by offering a powerful disinfecting action that kills 99.9% of common household germs and bacteria, including E. coli and Salmonella. It’s the perfect solution for busy kitchens, especially for families with young children or after handling raw foods.

Weiman has successfully created a dual-action formula that cleans daily grime and sanitizes the surface in one process, saving time and giving you invaluable peace of mind. While it requires a specific dwell time to disinfect properly, it’s a small trade-off for a truly sanitized food-prep area.

Specifications:
* Formula Type: Disinfectant Cleaner & Shiner
* Scent: Clean/Subtle
* Key Feature: Kills 99.9% of germs & bacteria
* Safe for Food Prep Surfaces: Yes (on non-porous surfaces, follow instructions)
* Surfaces: Sealed Granite, Marble, Limestone, Slate, Glazed Tile
* Free From: Harsh chemicals that damage stone

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Powerful Dual-Action Formula: The ability to clean and disinfect in a single product is a huge time-saver. It effectively removes messes while also working to kill germs, making it a highly efficient choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops.
* ✅ Essential Peace of Mind: Knowing that this cleaner is actively killing harmful bacteria on my most-used surfaces is a significant benefit. It’s especially reassuring after preparing raw chicken or fish on a nearby cutting board.
* ✅ Broad Multi-Surface Use: I found this cleaner to be effective on more than just granite. It’s approved for use on other hard, non-porous surfaces like glazed tile, bathroom sinks, and tubs, making it a versatile addition to my cleaning caddy.
* ✅ Comes from a Trusted Brand: Weiman is a household name in specialty surface cleaning. Their long-standing reputation for quality and reliability adds to my confidence in this product’s safety and efficacy on natural stone.
* ✅ Leaves a Nice, Light Shine: While not a dedicated polish, it does contain agents that enhance the stone’s natural luster. After wiping, my countertops were left with a clean, subtle shine that looked great.
* ✅ Includes a Polishing Cloth: Many purchasing options for this product come bundled with a microfiber polishing cloth, which is a thoughtful touch. It provides you with everything you need to get started right out of the box.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Disinfecting Requires Dwell Time: To achieve the full 99.9% germ-killing effect, the formula must remain wet on the surface for 10 minutes. This requires some planning and is less convenient than a quick spray-and-wipe for sanitizing.
* ❌ Not a Deep Polisher: While it does add a light shine, it won’t restore a heavily dulled or etched surface. For significant shine restoration, a dedicated granite polish would be a better choice.
* ❌ Instructions Must Be Followed Carefully: For food-contact surfaces, the label instructs you to rinse the surface with water after the 10-minute dwell time. It’s an extra step that’s important not to forget. Workaround: I simply keep a spray bottle of clean water handy to mist and wipe the counter after disinfecting.

Expert’s Experience
I focused my testing of the Weiman Disinfectant Granite Cleaner on its two main promises: cleaning and disinfecting. I used it for a week in my kitchen, paying close attention to the disinfecting process.

Disinfecting Efficacy: The primary reason to choose this cleaner is its ability to sanitize. I made sure to follow the 10-minute dwell time instruction after preparing raw meat on a cutting board nearby. The process is simple: spray until the surface is thoroughly wet, wait 10 minutes, then wipe clean. Knowing my countertops were properly sanitized afterward was invaluable. It’s a fantastic feature for anyone concerned about kitchen hygiene.

Cleaning & Shine: For everyday cleaning tasks, it works very well. It effectively cut through light grease and food residue, and the spray-and-wipe process (without the disinfecting dwell time) is quick and easy. It leaves a respectable shine that enhances the stone’s appearance, making it a solid daily cleaner even when you aren’t using its disinfecting feature.

Ease of Use: As a simple cleaner, it’s effortless. As a disinfectant, it requires a bit more attention to detail. However, I found the trade-off to be completely worth it for the added hygiene benefit. It’s the best of both worlds: a quick cleaner for most days and a powerful sanitizer when you need it.

Best 3-in-1 Formula: Weiman 3-in-1 Granite Cleaner Review


The Weiman 3-in-1 Granite Cleaner is the ultimate multi-tasker for stone care. It’s designed for the busy homeowner who wants to clean, polish, and protect their granite all at once, simplifying a multi-step process into a single, easy application. Its standout feature is the “Stain Shield Technology,” which leaves behind a protective barrier to help prevent future stains.

During my testing, this product delivered the most noticeable improvement in shine and surface slickness among the daily cleaners. It not only cleans effectively but also visibly enhances the depth and color of the stone, making it a great choice for anyone looking to boost their countertop’s appearance while adding a layer of proactive protection.

Specifications:
* Formula Type: 3-in-1 (Clean, Polish, Protect)
* Scent: Neutral/Clean
* Key Feature: Stain Shield Technology
* Safe for Food Prep Surfaces: Yes
* Surfaces: Granite, Marble, Quartz, Onyx, Travertine, Slate
* Free From: Harsh chemicals, etching agents

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ True All-in-One Convenience: This formula genuinely simplifies granite maintenance. Combining the essential steps of cleaning, polishing, and protecting into one quick spray-and-wipe action saves a significant amount of time and effort.
* ✅ Proactive Stain Shield Technology: The protective barrier it leaves behind is a game-changer. After application, I watched water bead up on the surface, clearly demonstrating its repellent qualities. This makes future cleanups easier and helps prevent liquids from penetrating the stone.
* ✅ Excellent Shine Enhancement: Of all the cleaners I tested, this one delivered the most impressive shine. It noticeably improved the luster and made the natural colors and intricate patterns in my granite “pop” with more vibrancy.
* ✅ Effective on Stubborn Watermarks: It did a fantastic job removing the stubborn hard water spots that tend to accumulate around the sink faucet area. A little buffing with a microfiber cloth made them disappear completely.
* ✅ Very Wide Surface Compatibility: This formula is safe for an extensive list of natural and engineered stone surfaces, including granite, marble, quartz, and onyx. It’s a versatile product if you have different types of stone in your home.
* ✅ Leaves a Silky-Smooth Finish: After buffing, the countertop surface feels incredibly smooth and slick to the touch. It’s a satisfying tactile result that reinforces the feeling of a clean and polished surface.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Unsuitable for Floors: The formula contains silicones to achieve its brilliant shine. While excellent for countertops, this makes it completely unsuitable for floor use as it would create a dangerously slippery surface.
* ❌ Potential for Buildup Over Time: As with any product that contains polishing or protective agents, there is a potential for residue to build up over many months of exclusive use. Workaround: I recommend alternating its use with a basic daily cleaner like Granite Gold every few weeks to ensure the surface stays pristine.
* ❌ Less Focused on Deep Cleaning: While it handles daily grime well, its primary strengths are in polishing and protecting. For heavy, greasy messes, you might need to clean the area with a simple degreaser first.

Expert’s Experience
My experience with the Weiman 3-in-1 Granite Cleaner was very positive, particularly in its aesthetic and protective results. It’s more than just a cleaner; it’s a finishing product.

Protective Qualities: The “Stain Shield” is the most compelling feature. I tested its claim by spilling a few drops of water on the counter an hour after application. The water beaded up tightly, just as it would on a freshly waxed car, and wiped away without a trace. This proactive protection is a huge benefit for preventing future stains.

Polishing & Appearance: This cleaner delivered the most noticeable “wow” factor. It left a deep, rich gloss that really brought out the complexity of my granite’s pattern. If your countertops are looking a bit tired or dull, this product will definitely bring them back to life and give them that beautiful, reflective quality.

Cleaning Power: It effectively removed fingerprints, dust, and minor food splatters. I see it as a finishing product as much as a cleaner. It’s perfect for the final wipe-down after you’ve cleaned up the main mess from cooking, leaving the kitchen sparkling and protected.

Best for Enhancing Shine: Rock Doctor Granite Cleaner Review


If your main goal is to bring a dull, lackluster countertop back to a brilliant, showroom-level shine, then Rock Doctor Granite Cleaner is the product for you. While it’s a capable daily cleaner, its true purpose is aesthetic enhancement. The formula is specifically engineered to restore color vibrancy and provide a glossy, almost mirror-like finish.

Out of all the products I tested, Rock Doctor delivered the most dramatic visual results. It doesn’t just clean; it renews the surface, making the stone’s natural colors appear deeper and richer. It’s the perfect choice for when you’re preparing for guests or just want your kitchen to look its absolute best.

Specifications:
* Formula Type: Shine-Enhancing Cleaner
* Scent: Unspecified/Mild
* Key Feature: Restores color vibrance
* Safe for Food Prep Surfaces: Yes
* Surfaces: Sealed & Cultured Granite, Marble, Tile, Quartz
* Free From: Greasy compounds, heavy residue

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superior, Mirror-Like Shine: This product is in a class of its own when it comes to shine. It delivered a remarkable, high-gloss finish that made my countertops look like they were freshly polished and sealed.
* ✅ Deepens and Enhances Natural Color: I was genuinely impressed by how it made the stone’s natural colors and patterns look richer and more vibrant. It gave the granite a “wet look” that really highlighted its depth and beauty.
* ✅ Genuinely Streak-Free Performance: It absolutely lives up to its promise of being streak-free. I tested it under direct kitchen lighting, and there was no film, no haze, and no smudging—just pure, clean gloss.
* ✅ No Greasy or Oily Residue: Despite the incredibly high shine it produces, the surface doesn’t feel greasy, oily, or artificial. After buffing, the countertop felt exceptionally smooth and slick to the touch.
* ✅ Simple and Fast to Use: The application is incredibly easy. You just spray it on, wipe with a clean cloth to clean the surface, and then buff with a dry part of the cloth to bring out the shine. The results are almost instantaneous.
* ✅ Works Great on Other Surfaces: I also tried it on my quartz bathroom vanity and it delivered the same stunning, high-gloss results, making it a great multi-surface shine enhancer.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Primarily for Aesthetics: While it does clean away light dirt and fingerprints, its main purpose is polishing. It’s not the strongest choice for tackling heavy, caked-on grime or greasy kitchen spills. Workaround: For a heavily soiled kitchen, use a primary cleaner first, then finish with Rock Doctor to add the final polish.
* ❌ Less Focus on Long-Term Protection: Unlike the Weiman 3-in-1, this product’s formula is geared more towards immediate visual results rather than leaving behind a long-term protective barrier against stains.
* ❌ Scent is Non-Descript: The scent is very mild and neutral, which might be a pro for some. However, if you enjoy a fresh, clean scent after cleaning, this product doesn’t really provide that experience.

Expert’s Experience
Using Rock Doctor Granite Cleaner felt like using a detailing spray for a car—it’s all about that final, perfect finish.

Shine & Color Restoration: This is where Rock Doctor truly excels and outshines the competition. I tested it on a slightly older, duller section of countertop near my sink, and the difference was immediate and impressive. It imparted a deep, wet-look gloss that made the stone look new again. If you want to impress guests, this is the product to use before they arrive.

Surface Feel: The tactile result was just as satisfying as the visual one. After a quick buff with a dry microfiber cloth, the countertop felt incredibly smooth and slick. Running my hand over the surface felt luxurious.

Cleaning Performance: As a cleaner for light daily tasks, it’s perfectly adequate. It wiped away water spots and fingerprints with ease. However, I see it less as a daily workhorse cleaner and more as a “finishing spray” to be used after the main cleanup is done, or for quick touch-ups to maintain that perfect shine throughout the week.

Best Eco-Friendly: Method Daily Granite Cleaner Review


For the environmentally conscious consumer, the Method Daily Granite Cleaner is the undisputed champion. This product proves that you don’t have to compromise on cleaning performance to make a responsible choice. It features a plant-based, biodegradable formula, comes in a bottle made from 100% recycled plastic, and is certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny.

Beyond its impressive eco-credentials, it’s also a highly effective daily cleaner. It cuts through everyday grime and leaves behind a brilliant, streak-free shine. Plus, its signature Apple Orchard scent is a refreshing and delightful departure from typical cleaning product fragrances, making the daily chore of wiping down counters a more pleasant experience.

Specifications:
* Formula Type: Plant-Based Daily Cleaner
* Scent: Apple Orchard
* Key Feature: Cruelty-free, biodegradable formula
* Safe for Food Prep Surfaces: Yes
* Surfaces: Granite, Marble, Sealed Stone
* Free From: Animal testing, harsh chemicals

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Eco-Friendly Credentials: I love using a product with a plant-based, biodegradable formula. Knowing the ingredients are safer for my home and the planet provides significant peace of mind.
* ✅ Certified Cruelty-Free: The Leaping Bunny certification is a huge plus, guaranteeing that the product and its ingredients are never tested on animals. This is a non-negotiable for many consumers, including myself.
* ✅ Sustainable Packaging: The fact that the bottle (minus the nozzle) is made from 100% recycled plastic demonstrates Method’s genuine commitment to sustainability from start to finish.
* ✅ Wonderful and Unique Scent: The Apple Orchard scent is absolutely fantastic. It’s crisp, fresh, and authentic, making the kitchen smell wonderful after cleaning. It’s a welcome change from generic citrus or chemical smells.
* ✅ Effective Daily Cleaning Power: This cleaner easily handled all the daily wipe-downs in my kitchen. It cut through light grease, food residue, and water spots effectively, leaving the surface perfectly clean.
* ✅ Great Streak-Free Shine: Despite being a plant-based formula, it delivered a beautiful, streak-free result on my dark granite. A quick buff with a dry cloth was all it took to achieve a nice, natural shine.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Scent May Not Be for Everyone: While I personally loved the distinct apple scent, it is quite noticeable. Those who are highly sensitive to fragrances or prefer an unscented product might find it a bit strong.
* ❌ No Polishing or Protective Additives: This is a pure cleaner. It doesn’t contain any silicones or waxes to enhance shine or polymers to add a protective layer like some of the other specialized formulas on this list.
* ❌ May Require More Product for Greasy Messes: For more stubborn, greasy spots, I found I sometimes needed a second application or had to let the cleaner sit for a moment to be fully effective, compared to more conventional chemical cleaners.

Expert’s Experience
My time testing the Method Daily Granite Cleaner was a genuinely enjoyable experience, which is not something I often say about cleaning.

Eco-Friendliness & Ingredients: Method’s clear and unwavering commitment to sustainability is its biggest selling point. Using this product simply feels good. It’s a choice you can make every day to reduce your environmental impact without sacrificing a clean home.

Cleaning & Scent Experience: The cleaning power is solid for a daily cleaner. It’s perfect for the end-of-day wipe-down of the kitchen. But the real differentiator is the scent. The crisp Apple Orchard fragrance is a mood-lifter. It makes the cleaning process feel less like a chore and more like a small act of home care.

Overall Value: For any consumer who prioritizes green, plant-based, and cruelty-free products, this cleaner offers outstanding value. It delivers on its promise of effective, streak-free cleaning while aligning with values of environmental responsibility and kindness to animals.

Granite Cleaner Comparison Chart

Seeing the key features side-by-side can make your decision much clearer. This chart highlights the main differentiators I found during my testing.

Feature Granite Gold Daily Cleaner Weiman Disinfectant Weiman 3-in-1 Rock Doctor Cleaner Method Daily Cleaner
Category Best Overall Best for Disinfecting Best 3-in-1 Formula Best for Enhancing Shine Best Eco-Friendly
Formula Type Daily Cleaner Disinfectant Clean, Polish, Protect Shine Enhancer Plant-Based Daily
Key Benefit pH-Balanced Safety Kills 99.9% of Germs Stain Shield Tech Restores Color & Gloss Eco-Friendly Formula
Scent Light Citrus Subtle/Clean Neutral/Clean Mild Apple Orchard
Best For Everyday reliability Kitchens needing sanitizing Simplifying routines Restoring dull countertops Eco-conscious homes
My Rating 4.8/5 ⭐ 4.6/5 ⭐ 4.7/5 ⭐ 4.5/5 ⭐ 4.4/5 ⭐

As you can see, the best choice truly depends on your primary need. For ultimate safety and reliability, Granite Gold is the clear leader. If your main concern is hygiene, the Weiman Disinfectant cleaner is unmatched. For simplifying your routine with added protection, the Weiman 3-in-1 is a fantastic multi-tasker. And for aesthetics or eco-friendliness, Rock Doctor and Method are the respective top performers.

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

The best cleaner for your granite countertops is the one that best suits your stone’s condition, your household’s daily activities, and your personal cleaning philosophy. Using a specialized granite cleaner is the single most important thing you can do to preserve your investment. This guide breaks down the essential factors to consider before you buy.

  • Formula pH-Balance: This is the most critical factor, without exception. Always choose a pH-neutral (around 7.0) cleaner. Anything acidic (like vinegar or lemon juice) or strongly alkaline (like ammonia or bleach) can etch the stone’s surface and rapidly degrade the protective sealant, leaving your expensive countertops vulnerable to stains and damage. All products on this list are pH-neutral.
  • Cleaning vs. Disinfecting: Determine your primary need. A daily cleaner like Granite Gold is perfect for removing surface grime and fingerprints. However, if you frequently handle raw meat, have young children, or simply want an extra level of hygiene, a combination disinfectant like the Weiman Disinfectant Granite Cleaner offers crucial sanitizing power.

  • Shine & Polish Additives: If your countertops are looking a bit dull or have lost their luster, a cleaner with polishing agents can help restore their appearance. The Weiman 3-in-1 and Rock Doctor are excellent for this. For newer or well-maintained counters, a simple cleaner without these additives (like Granite Gold or Method) is sufficient and helps prevent potential long-term buildup.

  • Food-Safe Certification: For any surface where you prepare or serve food, this is non-negotiable. Always look for products explicitly labeled as “safe for food-preparation surfaces.” This ensures no harmful or toxic residues are left behind where your family eats.

  • Scent & Residue: This is a matter of personal preference. Options on this list range from the very mild scent of Rock Doctor to the distinct Apple Orchard fragrance of Method. No matter the scent, a good cleaner should always wipe away completely, leaving no sticky, oily, or hazy residue behind. Using a clean microfiber cloth is key to a residue-free finish.

  • Surface Compatibility: While this guide focuses on granite, many of these specialized products are also safe for other sealed stones like marble, quartz, slate, and travertine. If you have multiple stone surfaces in your home, choosing a versatile cleaner like any on this list can offer better value and convenience.

  • Eco-Friendliness & Ingredients: If sustainability is a priority for you, look beyond the basic cleaning claims. Seek out brands like Method that offer plant-based, biodegradable formulas, cruelty-free certifications (like the Leaping Bunny logo), and packaging made from recycled materials.

FAQs About Best Cleaners for Granite Countertops

What is the best cleaner for granite countertops?

The best cleaner is a pH-neutral formula specifically designed for natural stone. For the best combination of safety, daily cleaning power, and a streak-free finish, my top recommendation is Granite Gold Daily Cleaner. Its expert formulation from a trusted stone-care brand makes it the most reliable choice for long-term granite care.

Can I use dish soap on granite?

Yes, in a pinch, a solution of warm water with a few drops of a mild, pH-neutral dish soap is a safe option. However, it’s not ideal for frequent use. Dish soap can leave behind a film or soap scum that builds up over time, which will dull your countertop’s shine and attract more grime. A dedicated granite cleaner is always better for regular cleaning.

What cleaners should you not use to clean granite countertops?

Never use acidic or alkaline cleaners on granite. This includes common household products like vinegar, lemon juice, Windex (with ammonia), bleach, and any abrasive powders or scouring creams. These products can permanently etch (dull) the stone’s surface and will strip away the protective sealant, making your countertops susceptible to stains.

How often should I clean my granite countertops?

You should wipe down your granite countertops daily with a dedicated granite cleaner or a damp microfiber cloth. This removes surface crumbs, spills, and fingerprints before they can set in. A more thorough cleaning focusing on the entire surface should be done at least once a week, or more often depending on how heavily you use your kitchen.

How do you make granite countertops shine without streaks?

The secret is using the right product and the right tool. Use a quality, pH-neutral granite cleaner and two clean, dry microfiber cloths. Lightly spray the cleaner on a section, wipe the surface clean with the first cloth, and then immediately buff the area completely dry with the second cloth. This two-cloth method prevents streaks and enhances shine.

Is vinegar safe for granite countertops?

No, vinegar is absolutely NOT safe for granite. Vinegar is highly acidic and will etch the surface of the stone, creating dull spots that look like watermarks but are actually permanent damage to the stone itself. It also rapidly breaks down the sealant that protects your countertops from stains.

Can I disinfect granite countertops?

Yes, you can, but you must use a product specifically formulated to be a stone-safe disinfectant. The Weiman Disinfectant Granite Cleaner is designed for this purpose. Alternatively, a 50/50 solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol and water can work, but you should always test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.

What causes streaks on granite?

Streaks are most often caused by using too much cleaner, using the wrong type of cleaner (like soap that leaves a film), or not drying the surface completely after wiping. A dirty or overly damp cleaning cloth can also be the culprit. Using a clean, dry microfiber cloth to buff the surface is the key to a streak-free finish.

How do experts clean granite?

Professionals typically use a three-step process. First, they clear the surface and do a dry wipe with a microfiber cloth to remove any loose crumbs or debris. Second, they apply a professional-grade, pH-neutral granite cleaner and wipe the surface clean with another fresh microfiber cloth. Finally, they use a third, completely dry microfiber cloth to buff the surface to a perfect, streak-free shine.

What is the best homemade granite cleaner?

The safest and most effective homemade granite cleaner is a simple mixture of warm water and a few drops of pH-neutral dish soap. For a disinfecting option, you can use a 50/50 mix of 70% isopropyl alcohol and water. Critically, you must avoid all DIY recipes that include acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or certain essential oils, as they will damage the stone.

My Final Verdict

Choosing the right cleaner is the most important step you can take to protect your granite investment and keep it looking beautiful for decades. While all five products on this list are excellent, the best choice for you hinges on what you value most: daily reliability, disinfecting power, or aesthetic enhancement.

For the best all-around performance, safety, and daily reliability, I confidently recommend the Granite Gold Daily Cleaner. It’s the product that gets everything right. Its pH-balanced, food-safe formula offers peace of mind, and its flawless streak-free finish makes it a joy to use.

The Granite Gold Daily Cleaner is perfect for you if:
* You want a supremely safe, pH-neutral formula from a stone care expert.
* Your top priority is a flawless, streak-free finish on any color of granite.
* You need a reliable food-prep safe cleaner for daily kitchen use.
* You appreciate a light, fresh scent that doesn’t overwhelm your space.
* You want one product that works on all your natural stone surfaces.

It’s not ideal for:
* Users who need to disinfect and kill germs in one step.
* Those looking to restore a deep, polished shine to dull countertops.

If sanitizing your kitchen is your top priority, the Weiman Disinfectant Granite Cleaner is an outstanding choice that effectively cleans and kills germs. But for the majority of homes, the daily-use perfection of Granite Gold Daily Cleaner makes it the undisputed champion.

Last update on 2026-02-12 at 04:08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Share your love
Jennifer Smith
Jennifer Smith

Jennifer Smith is a respected kitchenware expert with over 10 years of experience in product development, sourcing, and quality control. She creates innovative and practical products for leading brands and retailers, helping people cook with ease. Jennifer's passion for cooking and helping others has made her an influential figure in the kitchenware industry.