How do I get the granite in the kitchen to shine?

by Suzanne Ruggiero
(Greensboro, NC USA)

shiney granit counter-top

I have a large kitchen with a lot of granite that is about 8 years old now. I deep polished it only once and it was a very long procedure. There probably is an easier way by now. I have a cleaning person every three weeks and even when she cleans it "well?" it does not shine. There are small short lines here and there and one small chip only. I was told it was practically infallible.

Please tell me what to use to polish a good shine on the granite. Thank you.


hello susie: you're right, granite should be infallible to just about anything. however it is a stone, and therefore needs constant attention. contrary to popular advice, granite will leave marks and yes will even pit after awhile. you need to re-seal once a year to keep it up. and try to keep very hot items off of the surface. use a trivet to hold all of your pots and pans. here is your answer: take a spray bottle and fill it with a quarter cup of alcohol rubbing/isopropal. add a couple of drops of liquid detergent and fill the bottle to the top with water.give the bottle a good shake then spray the mixture on your granite and use a non-abrasive cloth or sponge to wipe them down. do this daily or whenever you want to restore your shine. rinse the counter-tops with clean water and use a clean cloth to remove any streaks. enjoy your shine. Richard