vinegar on granite

Question

Two granite companies told me to use vinegar windex without amonia for daily cleaning.Two other contractors at the home show said NOT to use the vinegar windex because it would deteriorate the sealer and eventually etch the granite.I'm confused. Anybody know?

Miriam Illions · Answer

I read this on a similar question: 'Vinegar is acidic and its use on some natural stone products can lead to 'ETCHING' You can read more here: http://www.hometalk.com/diy/clean/house/q-cleaning-granite-countertops-naturally-135287 You can also do a search for 'vinegar on granite' it's talked about here a lot.

Phoenix Stone Solutions · Answer

Hi again, Don!  The Marble Institute of America does not have any cautions about using a mildly acidic cleaner on a siliceous stone (granite).  However...if you have a temporary sealer (like the one you described for us this weekend), it will eventually eat through it.  When it is sealed with Granite Shield, there are chemical bonds that are formed at the surface of the stone...we will use a carbon crystal (not to be confused with crystallization that is harmful to the stone).  This bond cannot be 'eaten through' with ammonia or vinegar.   For now, I would stay away from vinegar and ammonia, simply because it will potentially eat through the sealer and leave the stone unprotected.  It won't harm the stone, but acids also prime many materials for absorption.  If anyone reading this has marble...our advice is different.  Marble (not granite), contains calcite (Calcareous).  It will etch when it comes in contact with acids.  Hope this helps!!  Enjoy your stone!

vinegar on granite

Cleaning granite countertops naturally

Suggested Project Book

30 Creative Painting Techniques & Ideas You MUST See

Other

More

vinegar on granite

Cleaning granite countertops naturally

Suggested Project Book