A question that I often encounter, and you’ve probably wondered yourself, is: “Can you clean granite with Windex?” Now, while we all adore Windex for its incredible streak-free shine on our windows, mirrors, and other glass surfaces, does it bring the same magic when it comes to granite countertops?
In this post, I’ll discuss in details whether Windex is safe for granite, the potential impacts it may have on your countertops, and if it’s advisable to mix Windex with vinegar. I will also suggest some safer alternatives for cleaning your precious granite surfaces.
Can You Use Windex on Granite?
It’s better to avoid it using Windex on granite countertops. While it’s very tempting to use Windex on our beautiful granite surfaces due to its reputation for leaving a sparkling finish, it’s crucial to consider the material we’re dealing with. Granite, although rock solid and robust, has certain vulnerabilities that aren’t compatible with Windex.
Is Windex Safe on Granite?
No, Windex is generally not considered safe for granite countertops. The reason why Windex isn’t typically recommended for granite countertops is that it contains harsh chemicals such as ammonia and alcohol.
These elements, while amazing for glass and similar surfaces, can end up damaging your granite countertop’s sealing over time. This allows for unwanted substances to seep into your granite, leading to staining and discoloration. In addition, the high pH level of Windex can interfere with the natural stone, causing dullness. Therefore, the long-term impact far outweighs the short-term shiny appeal.
Windex Potential Impact on Granite Countertop
So, what does windex do to granite? To fully grasp why Windex might not be our go-to granite cleaner, let’s delve into what this means for your countertops.
1. Sealer degradation
The primary defense of your granite countertop against spills, stains, and daily wear and tear is its sealer. However, Windex contains chemicals that can weaken this protective layer over time. As the sealer degrades, it leaves your countertop vulnerable to moisture penetration and staining.
2. Discoloration and staining
When your granite countertop’s sealer starts to degrade, it allows for various substances to seep into the granite. This seepage often leads to unsightly dark spots, stains, and overall discoloration – the exact opposite of what we want for our gorgeous countertops.
3. Dullness
Another potential impact of Windex on granite is dullness. The harsh substances in Windex, coupled with its high pH level, can interfere with the natural stone, causing it to lose its characteristic shine over time. This dullness takes away from the aesthetic appeal of granite, one of the main reasons homeowners choose it for their kitchens.
Can You Mix Windex and Vinegar?
While we’re at it, you might wonder if you can mix Windex and vinegar for a ‘DIY’ cleaning solution. I’d recommend against it. As we’ve already established, Windex contains substances that aren’t ideal for granite. Adding vinegar to the mix doesn’t improve the situation.
Vinegar is acidic, and like Windex, it can cause damage to the granite sealant over time, potentially leading to dull, discolored countertops.
Safe Alternatives for Granite Countertop Cleaning
Now that we’ve established that ‘Windex on granite countertops’ may not be the best tag-team, let’s look at safer alternatives to keep your counters gleaming.
Mild dish soap and warm water should be your first port of call for routine cleaning. And for those stubborn stains? A paste made from baking soda and water can be very effective.
If you’re willing to go the extra mile, there are cleaners specifically designed for granite surfaces available in the market such as;
1. Granite gold daily cleaner
This cleaner is a top pick for many homeowners due to its non-toxic, biodegradable formula that is safe for all food-preparation surfaces. It also leaves a fresh citrus scent.
2. Weiman granite cleaner & polish
Weiman is a trusted name in the cleaning industry, and their granite cleaner is no exception. It cleans, brightens, and protects sealed stone and solid-surface countertops.
3. Method daily granite cleaner
This cleaner not only does a great job cleaning and preserving your granite but also smells fantastic with its apple orchard scent. It’s also plant-based and environmentally friendly.
4. Better life granite and stone cleaner
As the name suggests, this cleaner is designed for better life – both for your granite countertops and the environment. It’s solvent-free, with no VOCs, making it a safe choice for your home.
5. TriNova granite cleaner and polish for daily use
TriNova offers a solution that cleans and adds shine to not only granite but also marble, quartz, and other premium stone surfaces.
These cleaners are formulated to clean without causing damage to the sealant or the stone. They may be a tad more expensive than your average cleaner, but they’re a worthwhile investment for the longevity of your granite countertops.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, it’s all about knowing what works best for your surfaces. Can Windex be used on granite? Well, yes and no. While it won’t immediately cause catastrophic damage, the long-term effects are something you might want to steer clear of. The same goes for the ‘can I use Windex on granite countertops’ question. It’s best to play it safe with cleaning products specially designed for granite as mentioned above.
Keeping your granite countertops beautiful is a marathon, not a sprint. So, it’s better to treat them with care, avoiding harsh chemicals that could lead to damage down the line.
