Granite countertops are a luxurious and durable choice for modern kitchens and bathrooms, but preparing them for Pesach (Passover) requires more than your standard spring cleaning.
Granite countertops are a luxurious and durable choice for modern kitchens and bathrooms, but preparing them for Pesach (Passover) requires more than your standard spring cleaning. As Jewish households prepare to rid their homes of chametz and kasher their kitchens, granite—being a natural stone with unique porosity and texture—demands careful attention.
Whether you have black granite countertops, white granite countertops, honed granite countertops, or polished granite countertops, this guide will walk you through how to clean, kasher, and maintain your granite surfaces in preparation for Pesach.
Why Cleaning Granite Countertops for Pesach is Different
During Pesach, Jewish law requires not only the removal of chametz (leavened food), but also the kashering of surfaces that may have come into contact with hot chametz. Because granite is natural stone and often used in direct food prep, simply wiping it down is not enough.
For context on alternative surfaces:
👉 What Are Quartz Countertops?
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Granite Countertops for Pesach
1. Clear the Area Completely
Remove everything from your granite countertops—appliances, utensils, food items, cutting boards. You need full access to the surface.
2. Clean Crumbs and Surface Dirt Thoroughly
Use a soft cloth or brush to remove any loose crumbs or food residue. Be sure to clean:
- Under toasters or trays
- Behind small appliances
- In corners or seams of custom granite countertops
This is a vital first step in both halachic cleaning and practical maintenance.
3. Wash with Dish Soap and Warm Water
Using a granite-safe dish soap (such as a mild pH-neutral formula like Dawn), mix a few drops into warm water. Gently scrub the countertop using a microfiber cloth or non-abrasive sponge.
This step removes grease, residue, and any remaining food particles.
Got oily buildup?
👉 How to Clean Grease, Oil Stains, and Ant Infestations on Granite Countertops
4. Rinse and Dry Thoroughly
Rinse the entire granite surface with clean water to remove any soapy residue, then dry with a clean microfiber towel.
Avoid air drying, which can lead to water spots—especially on black granite countertops or blue pearl granite countertops.
Kashering Granite Countertops for Pesach
Now that your surface is physically clean, the next step is kashering—a halachic process that requires rendering the countertop kosher for Passover use.
Note: Always consult with your rabbi or local halachic authority to confirm this process aligns with your community’s standards.
Step 1: Ensure Granite Is a Kasherable Material
Granite is considered a kasherable material because it is non-porous enough to undergo libun kal (light heating or pouring boiling water) under many rabbinic authorities. Avoid trying this with laminate or tile.
Step 2: Avoid Using the Counter for 24 Hours
Let the granite countertops sit unused for 24 hours before kashering. This ensures that any absorbed taste is considered stale (a key halachic requirement).
Step 3: Clean Again with Boiling Water
Using an electric kettle:
- Boil water.
- Pour directly onto the granite surface in sections, using a rolling motion.
- Immediately dry with a clean towel or allow to air dry.
Optional: Use a heated stone or hot pot to touch each spot after boiling (known as even melubenet) for a more stringent kashering approach.
Bonus tip: To clean buildup like silicone or grout haze, visit:
👉 How to Clean Silicone…on Granite Countertops?
Post-Kashering Care: How to Maintain That Shine
After kashering, your countertops will be clean—but they may need some extra love to maintain their polish.
Recommended Routine:
- Daily: Wipe with warm water and a granite-safe cleaner
- Weekly: Buff with microfiber cloth
- Monthly: Reseal (if needed)
Granite is heat-resistant, durable, and long-lasting, making it one of the best granite countertops for kitchens—especially during Pesach when countertops are used heavily.
Common Pesach Questions About Granite Countertops
Can You Use Bleach or Vinegar on Granite to Clean for Pesach?
No. Bleach and vinegar can dull or damage the granite sealant. Stick to warm water and granite-safe cleaners.
Are Granite Countertops Considered Porous?
Yes, but much less so than other natural stones. Sealing makes them even more resistant to absorption.
Recommended Granite Countertop Products for Cleaning and Kashering
- Polished granite countertops: Use pH-neutral cleaners to maintain shine
- Honed granite countertops: Avoid polish; use gentle soaps
- Granite slabs for countertops: Ensure they are properly sealed
- Affordable granite countertops for modern kitchens: Maintain with low-cost DIY solutions like dish soap and water
Wondering how to lift granite slabs for installation or cleaning?
👉 Material-handling Equipment
Where to Find Local Granite Cleaning Help or Suppliers
If you’re not a DIYer or need professional help:
- Search for granite countertops near me
- Look for a granite countertop showroom [location]
- Ask for granite countertop installation services
- Explore wholesale granite countertops suppliers
You can also contact local granite fabricators for advice on kashering methods specific to your countertop’s type and finish.
Other Helpful Cleaning Resources
For general countertop care during the rest of the year:
Final Thoughts: Cleanliness and Kashrut in Harmony
Granite countertops are a centerpiece in many kosher homes, and preparing them for Pesach doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With the right techniques and halachic guidance, you can maintain cleanliness, uphold Jewish tradition, and preserve the beauty of your granite kitchen countertops.
Whether you’re hosting a large Seder or simply prepping meals throughout Passover, knowing your counters are clean, kashered, and sparkling adds peace of mind and a touch of elegance to your observance.