Alternate cleaners on granite countertops
Q. Are there safe homemade cleaners for granite countertops? Two years ago, my mom and sister bought me a bathroom vanity for my 20th wedding anniversary. It has a granite countertop. Are there any homemade cleaners that will not pit the granite? What works best for you?
Carrie, Maryland
A. Use a microfiber cloth and warm water or Dawn dish liquid mixed with warm water on a sponge or dishcloth. Rinse the cloth with water, wring it out, and wipe the counters. Then dry with a soft cotton/flannel cloth.
Don’t use excessive soap, or you’ll get buildup. Wipe up spills as soon as possible, too. Don’t use vinegar.
I’d stick with your recommended granite cleaner and alternate for occasional cleaning to keep the cost down.
Q. I tend to use aluminum foil to line baking dishes (saves on washing) and to wrap around bowls that are missing lids, etc. My problem is that the store brands do not hold up well and tear in a mess, and the name brand, Reynolds, is pretty expensive. Have you come across a brand that works that isn’t so pricey? Or do you have a good alternative? I’m in a really small town in Southern Virginia and am limited on my store selections. Thanks.
Pat, Virginia
A. I use name-brand foil. I don’t use it to line pans, though. I’ve switched over to glass and enamel baking pans. I let them soak before cleaning them.
Foil also is expensive to use as a bowl cover. I’d invest in glass storage containers with lids. I like the versatility. They can go from oven, stovetop, or microwave to refrigerator or freezer.
I have a set of Nouveau cookware by Princess House that I’ve had for years. They are easy to clean. Anchor Hocking makes Bake ‘N Keep containers that are similar to the refrigerator sets from the 1930s. CorningWare makes excellent glass bakeware. Check individual packaging for the temperature guidelines to fit your storage needs.
I know the cost to invest in these items is high, but they’re long lasting and you won’t have to rely on foil. As for an aluminum foil recommendation, I have used foil and plastic wrap from GFS (gfs.com), and it’s pretty good. But you can’t tuck it into a drawer because it’s restaurant (industrial) size, and it might not be sold at a store near you.
You can use the lid covers that are similar to shower caps or products such as Covermates for your bowls, too. They are reusable and can be bought online.
Q. I am writing with a question regarding cloudy goblets. My goblets are pressed glass that have been in the family for quite some time. I am not sure if they are Indiana Glass such Hocking or not. Anyhow, the last few years they have become increasingly cloudy to the point that I don’t want to use them as they are. I have tried to clean them with vinegar, baking soda, bleach and ammonia. Each time to no avail. Please tell me if you have any other ideas. I would appreciate it so much!
Lois P., e-mail
A. A quick wipe with nail polish remover sometimes works. Afterward, be sure to wash thoroughly with dish soap and water. You can use a toothbrush and scrub the glasses with white toothpaste and rinse. Try a denture tablet such as Efferdent and water, and let soak or rub petroleum jelly inside and let set for a few days. Then wash as usual. It’s possible the glasses are permanently etched.
Ÿ Sara Noel owns Frugal Village (frugalvillage.com), a Web site that offers practical, money-saving strategies for everyday living. Send tips, comments or questions to to Sara Noel, c/o United Media, 200 Madison Ave., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10016, or sara@frugalvillage.com.