How to Clean Bathroom Vanity Countertops

Granite is a highly durable stone that comes in a variety of attractive colors and patterns. While it's a strong material, it's always recommended that a few steps be taken to maintain its beauty for years to come.

Clean
It's recommended that you spray and wipe down your granite daily with a microfiber cloth and a granite cleaner. Granite cleaners are available for purchase or you can make your own using:

• 1/2 cup of rubbing alcohol
• 2 cups of distilled water
• 10 drops of dish soap
• 5 drops of scented oil in your favorite scent (optional)

Remove Stains
Makeup, hair products, toiletries and other products can cause stains on your granite surface. To remove these stains, it helps to know if it was made by an oil-based or a water-based stain.

For oil-based stains, use a cleaner that's specially formulated to remove them. If you want to make a cleaner, make a thick paste of water and baking soda. Rub it into the stain and cover the area with plastic wrap, letting it sit for 15 minutes. Then remove the paste with warm water and a cloth.

Water-based stains can be removed in a similar manner using a paste of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it sit for 24 hours. Remove the plastic wrap and clean the area with a soft-bristled brush and warm water. To prevent future stains, it's highly recommended that you seal the surface.

Seal
Sealing your granite surface offers a protective barrier from toiletries and products that you use every day. How can you tell if your surface is sealed? Pour a small amount of water on the countertop. Wait 20 minutes and check to see if the water seeps in or sits on the surface. If it seeps in, it's time to reseal the granite.

Sealing granite is a quick and easy process. Typically, you'll spray the surface and wipe it down with a sponge or cloth. Wait 20 minutes and repeat the process. But it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific product.

Quartz is an extremely durable material that offers a wide selection of colors and patterns. It's low-maintenance, so it's a great solution with kids or high-traffic areas. Unlike granite or marble, quartz is a nonporous surface and doesn't require sealing. In order to keep it pristine and clean, there are a few steps you should take to maintain your quartz bathroom countertop.

Clean
Quartz is the easiest surface to clean. Simply use a soft cloth or a sponge and a quartz countertop cleaner. You can also use a simple mix of soap and water. It's recommended to clean your quartz countertops once a week. To prevent scratches, avoid abrasive or acidic cleaners and hard-bristled brushes.

Remove Stains
As soon as you see a stain, it's best to clean the surface immediately. Make a thick paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes and remove the paste with a sponge and warm water. Repeat the steps if necessary.

Marble is a timeless and beautiful stone that looks luxurious in kitchens, bathrooms, bars and more. As stunning as it is, it's also a porous surface and is the most delicate and high maintenance of the three options. But with proper protection and routine maintenance, you can enjoy your marble surface for years to come.

Clean
It's recommended to use a cleaner that's specially formulated for marble countertops. If you prefer to use a homemade solution, simply mix mild dish soap and water. Use a soft sponge to clean your countertops. Then wipe them down with a microfiber cloth.

Remove Stains
The process of removing stains on marble is similar to that of granite. Mix a thick poultice of baking soda and water. Cover the poultice with plastic and wait 24 hours. Remove the plastic and use a soft cloth to remove the mix. If the stubborn stain hasn't disappeared, repeat the process.

Seal
Sealing marble will prevent stains and provide a protective layer to the surface. Use a specially-formulated stone sealer and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Typically, you'll spray the surface and wipe it down with a sponge or lint-free cloth. Wait 30 minutes and repeat the process 2-3 more times. It's best to seal marble annually.