Granite countertops are a great choice for both style and durability, but they do need a little TLC to keep them looking awesome. 

If you’ve ever thought about grabbing Windex to clean them, you might want to think again. 

Sure, Windex is great at cutting through grime and leaving glass streak-free, but granite is a different story. Its natural surface and protective sealant don’t mix well with the harsh chemicals found in Windex.

In this post, I’ll explain why you shouldn't use Windex on granite surfaces and what you should use instead to keep them looking sharp.

Why You Should NOT Use Windex On Granite

You’re probably wondering why everyone keeps saying you can’t use Windex on granite. I mean, it’s just a little spray, right? How much harm could it really do? 

Well, here’s the deal: granite is not like your average surface. It’s porous, natural, and has a protective sealant that keeps it looking its best. 

Also Read: Can You Use Lysol On Granite Countertops?

Windex, on the other hand, is packed with chemicals that don’t play nice with any of that.

Here’s what happens if you use Windex on granite:

#1 Ammonia Can Damage The Sealant

Granite countertops are usually sealed to protect them from staining, which is a major reason why they stay looking so nice. 

But here’s the problem: Windex contains ammonia, and ammonia can break down that protective sealant. The sealant is designed to form a barrier that keeps spills and stains from soaking into the stone, so it’s pretty important to keep it intact. 

Once the sealant starts to degrade, your granite becomes more vulnerable to all sorts of damage. 

It's like putting a crack in a shield—it just can’t do its job as well anymore.

#2 May Cause Discoloration

Granite is beautiful for its mix of colors and patterns, but harsh chemicals like those found in Windex can mess with that. 

The ammonia and other chemicals in Windex can fade or cause uneven coloring on the surface of your granite over time. What starts as a small change could end up making your countertops look blotchy or less vibrant. 

Since granite’s natural beauty is one of its biggest selling points, discoloration can be a real deal-breaker. 

#3 Harsh Chemicals Can Erode The Stone

Granite is tough, no doubt about it. But even the toughest materials have their limits.

The harsh chemicals in Windex can slowly eat away at the surface of the stone, causing it to lose its smoothness. Over time, this can result in tiny scratches and little etches that build up, even though you might not notice them right away. 

When these imperfections start to accumulate, your granite’s texture changes, and it can feel rough or uneven to the touch. 

Plus, the surface becomes more vulnerable to staining and further damage, too.

Also Read: How To Remove A Soap Stain On Granite

#4 Affects Natural Shine

Granite has this gorgeous, polished finish that’s a big part of why we love it. 

But when you use Windex on it, you risk dulling that shine. The ammonia and chemicals in the cleaner can strip away that glossy layer and leave you with a more matte surface that doesn’t have the same visual pop. 

It’s one of those changes that can sneak up on you—you won’t necessarily notice it immediately, but over time, your beautiful shiny countertop might start to look a little less… well, shiny.

#5 Risk Of Permanent Damage

Now, here’s the big one—the worst-case scenario. If you use Windex regularly on your granite, you could be setting yourself up for permanent damage. 

Once the sealant is gone and the stone is worn down, there’s no quick fix. 

You might need to reseal the entire surface, which can be a pain. In some cases, you might even need to replace parts of the countertop. And let’s be real—nobody wants to deal with that kind of headache (or expense). 

It’s much better to avoid these risks in the first place and stick to gentler cleaning options

What To Use On Granite Instead Of Windex

Okay, so Windex is off the table. What should you use instead? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Here are some safe, effective options that won’t harm your granite:

Mild Dish Soap And Warm Water

This is hands-down the easiest and most budget-friendly option.

Grab a small drop of mild dish soap and mix it with warm water in a spray bottle. Gently spray the mixture onto the granite and use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface. 

Mild dish soap is easy on the stone and won’t cause any damage. 

It’s also great for cleaning up spills and food stains without affecting the sealant or color. Just make sure not to use anything too strong or abrasive.

Also Read: Can you use Windex on solar panels?

Isopropyl Alcohol And Water

If you want something a little stronger, a mix of isopropyl alcohol and water is a great solution. 

This combo helps disinfect the surface without causing harm to the granite. It also dries quickly, so you won’t be left with streaks. 

A 50/50 mixture works well, and you can easily store it in a spray bottle for quick use. 

This is a good option for routine cleaning or for removing sticky spots like grease splatters or sticky residue.

Baking Soda Paste (For Tough Stains)

If you got a stain that just won’t budge, you can use some Baking soda. 

Mix a little baking soda with water to make a thick paste, then spread it over the stain. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to work its magic. After that, take a soft cloth or sponge and gently scrub the area. Rinse it off with water, and dry it with a clean towel. 

Baking soda is mild enough for granite but strong enough to tackle most stains. 

Just remember to be gentle—you don’t want to scratch the surface. And if the stain is still there? Repeat the process until it fades.

Granite-Specific Cleaners

If you want to take the guesswork out of cleaning your granite, invest in a cleaner made specifically for it. 

These products are formulated to clean without damaging the stone or its sealant. 

They’re a bit pricier than DIY solutions, but they’re super convenient. Most come in spray bottles, so you can just spritz, wipe, and go. 

Just follow the instructions on the label, and you’re golden. 

You can find them at most home stores and are a solid choice for keeping your granite looking brand new. They also often come with added benefits, like stain protection or a bit of extra shine. 

Bottom Line

So, can you use Windex on granite? Nope. Just don’t do it. 

While it might seem like a quick fix, it’s not worth the risk. Over time, Windex can damage the sealant, cause discoloration, erode the stone, dull the shine, and even lead to permanent issues. 

None of that sounds fun, does it?

Instead, stick to safer options like mild dish soap, isopropyl alcohol, baking soda, or granite-specific cleaners. These methods are gentle on your countertops but still get the job done. 

Plus, they’re easy to whip up or grab from the store.

FAQs

Can You Use Windex On Quartz?

No, don't use Windex on quartz surfaces.

Windex contains ammonia, and that can cause some serious damage to the surface over time. Quartz has a resin binder, and ammonia can break it down, leading to discoloration or dull spots. Plus, it might affect the shine.

To clean quartz, stick to something gentler, like a mild dish soap mixed with warm water

Can You Use Windex On Marble?

No, you should avoid using Windex on marble too. Marble is a porous and sensitive stone, and ammonia-based cleaners like Windex can etch the surface and dull the finish.

The best way to clean marble is with a gentle, pH-balanced cleaner or just warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.