Homemade Stone Countertop Cleaner

Frederick M. Hueston   StoneForensics.com

Making your own stone countertop cleaner is a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to maintain the beauty of your stone surfaces without using harsh chemicals that can potentially damage them. Here’s a simple recipe for a homemade stone countertop cleaner using natural ingredients:

Ingredients:

Distilled Water: Distilled water is free from minerals and impurities that could leave streaks or residue on your stone countertops.

Rubbing Alcohol: Rubbing alcohol helps to disinfect and dissolve grease and grime.

Castile Soap: Castile soap is a natural vegetable-based soap that effectively cleans without harming stone surfaces.

Essential Oils (Optional): Essential oils like lemon, lavender, or tea tree not only add a pleasant fragrance but also have natural cleaning properties.

Instructions:

Prepare a Spray Bottle: Find a clean spray bottle to store and dispense your homemade cleaner.

Measure the Ingredients:

Pour 1 cup of distilled water into the spray bottle.

Add 1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol.

Add 1 teaspoon of mild liquid Castile soap.

Optional: Essential Oils:

Add 5-10 drops of essential oil for fragrance and additional cleaning power. Essential oils like lemon or tea tree are great choices for their natural antibacterial properties.

Mix and Shake: Secure the spray bottle cap and shake gently to mix the ingredients. Be sure to shake the bottle before each use to ensure the ingredients are well combined.

Testing: Before using the cleaner on a large and visible area, test it on a small, inconspicuous spot on your stone countertop to make sure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration.

Application:

Spray the homemade cleaner onto the stone surface.

Let it sit for a few moments to help loosen dirt and grime.

Wipe the surface clean with a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth.

Rinse and Dry:

If you used essential oils, you might want to lightly rinse the surface with clean water to remove any residue.

Dry the countertop with another clean, dry cloth to prevent streaks.

Avoid using acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus juices in your homemade cleaner, as they can potentially damage certain types of stone surfaces like marble and limestone.

Remember that each type of stone has unique care requirements, so it’s always a good idea to refer to your countertop manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and maintenance. Regular cleaning and proper care will help keep your stone countertops looking their best for years to come.