Granite countertops are a premium feature in homes, offering durability, natural beauty, and timeless appeal.
Granite countertops are a premium feature in homes, offering durability, natural beauty, and timeless appeal. From granite kitchen countertops and granite bathroom countertops to granite countertops for outdoor kitchens, homeowners love granite for its polished elegance and practical functionality. But when it comes to cleaning, there’s often confusion—can you use Clorox wipes, bleach, vinegar, or Lysol on granite countertops?
The short answer: No, most common disinfectants and acidic household cleaners are not safe for granite. In this article, we break down which cleaning products are safe, which to avoid, and how to properly care for your granite countertops to maintain their shine and longevity.
Why Special Care Is Needed for Granite Surfaces
Granite is a natural stone formed under extreme heat and pressure. While it’s known for being heat resistant, it’s also porous, which means it can absorb moisture and stains if not properly sealed.
Even polished granite countertops with sealant can become vulnerable over time if cleaned with acidic or abrasive products. This is particularly important for light-colored white granite countertops or textured honed granite countertops, where surface damage or discoloration becomes more noticeable.
Are Clorox Wipes Safe for Granite Countertops?
Clorox wipes are convenient and effective disinfectants—but they are not recommended for granite.
Why Clorox Wipes Are Harmful:
- Contain bleach or citric acid, which can damage the sealant
- May cause the granite to become dull or etched over time
- Leave chemical residue on the surface that can degrade the stone
If you’re working with unfinished or unsealed granite, see: How to Clean Old, Faux, Unfinished, or Unsealed Granite Countertops
Is Bleach Safe for Granite?
Absolutely not. Bleach is far too harsh for granite countertops.
- Bleach can strip the sealant, making the surface more porous
- Prolonged use can cause permanent discoloration and etching
- Especially damaging to darker stones like black granite countertops or brown granite countertops
Can You Use Vinegar on Granite Countertops?
No. Vinegar is acidic and one of the worst offenders when it comes to granite care.
The Problem with Vinegar:
- Reacts with minerals in granite, causing etching and weakening
- Can break down protective coatings on granite slabs for countertops
- Leads to a cloudy or hazy appearance, especially on blue pearl granite countertops
Even diluted vinegar should be avoided—opt for pH-neutral cleaners instead.
What About Lysol on Granite Countertops?
Lysol disinfectant sprays and wipes are also not safe for granite.
- Many formulas contain alcohols, citric acid, or bleach derivatives
- These chemicals can cause sealant breakdown and dull the surface
- Not suitable for custom granite countertops or high-traffic areas like kitchen islands
Best and Safest Granite Cleaning Alternatives
✅ Mild Dish Soap and Warm Water
A few drops of pH-neutral dish soap like Dawn, combined with warm water, are ideal for daily cleaning. Wipe with a microfiber cloth to avoid streaks or scratches.
✅ Isopropyl Alcohol (70%)
A diluted solution of rubbing alcohol and water (1:1 ratio) works well for disinfection. Spray on the surface, let sit briefly, and wipe dry.
Cleaning granite outdoors? Check How to Clean Outdoor Granite Countertops for weather-specific advice.
How to Safely Disinfect Granite Without Damage
- Wipe down with soap and water first to remove debris
- Use alcohol-based disinfectant spray (no added acids)
- Dry immediately with a soft towel to prevent water spots or streaks
Are Granite Countertops Still Popular in 2025?
Yes. In fact, with the rising demand for natural stone vs engineered stone countertops, granite remains a top choice due to its heat resistance, natural elegance, and ROI-boosting value.
Popular applications include:
- Granite countertops with white cabinets
- Affordable granite countertops for modern kitchens
- Granite countertop installation services for outdoor spaces
Granite vs Quartz Countertops: Maintenance Matters
Granite and quartz offer unique benefits—but differ in cleaning needs.
| Feature | Granite | Quartz |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Natural stone | Engineered composite |
| Porous | Yes | No |
| Requires Sealing | Yes | No |
| Acid Sensitivity | High | Low |
| Heat Resistance | Excellent | Good |
| Daily Cleaning | Mild soap & water | Non-abrasive cleaners |
Want to learn more?
- What Are Quartz Countertops?
- Do Quartz Countertops Need to Be Sealed?
- How to Remove Stains from Quartz Countertops?
Proper Granite Care: Dos and Don’ts
Do:
- Clean spills immediately
- Use soft, non-abrasive cloths
- Reseal countertops every 6–12 months
- Use cutting boards and trivets
Don’t:
- Use acidic or abrasive cleaners
- Let oils or sauces sit for long periods
- Place hot pans directly on honed granite countertops (polished surfaces are more tolerant)
Where to Buy and Maintain Granite Countertops
For high-quality stone and maintenance products, search:
- Granite countertops near me
- Granite countertops in [city name]
- Top-rated granite countertop installers near me
- Granite countertop showroom [location]
- Where to buy granite countertops at wholesale prices
- Wholesale granite countertops suppliers
Conclusion: Keep Your Granite Safe—Ditch the Bleach and Wipes
To preserve the elegance of your granite countertops, it’s critical to avoid harsh cleaners like Clorox wipes, bleach, vinegar, and Lysol. These products can strip sealants, cause discoloration, and shorten your countertop’s lifespan.
Instead, stick with gentle solutions like dish soap, water, and alcohol-based sprays. With proper care, your granite kitchen countertops, bathroom surfaces, and even granite countertops with outdoor exposure can look stunning for decades.