September 03, 2026
Got a minute? Good.
My countertops are granite, and for years I fought a losing battle with streaky, cloudy residue no matter what spray I grabbed. Even those expensive sprays that are specifically made for Granite never did the job.
Then a reader wrote in with the fix I use almost daily now: plain rubbing alcohol. It evaporates fast, cuts grease, and does not leave that dull film behind.
It works just as well on my stainless faucets and chrome fixtures too. Below is how I use it in two spots in my kitchen.
Be Well,
Anisa
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A Streak-Free Shine for Sealed Stone
Photo: Anisa at her kitchen counter, wiping down the granite with a cloth and a small spray bottle of rubbing alcohol.
Pour a little rubbing alcohol onto a soft cloth and wipe down sealed granite, quartz, or laminate counters. It disinfects as it cleans, and since it evaporates so fast, there is no residue left to wipe away.
Always spot-test an unsealed or natural stone counter first in a hidden corner, since alcohol can affect certain finishes over time.
For daily wipe-downs, keep a small spray bottle of alcohol under the sink so it is ready whenever you need it.
Chrome and Stainless That Actually Shines
Dab a cloth with rubbing alcohol and run it over faucets, cabinet pulls, and the stainless steel on your fridge or dishwasher. It cuts through fingerprints and water spots without the smudgy residue some cleaners leave.
Wipe in the direction of the grain on stainless steel for the best finish, then follow with a dry microfiber cloth.
It is inexpensive, fast, and already sitting in most medicine cabinets, so there is nothing new to buy.
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