Baking Soda on Granite Countertops: Baking soda is generally considered safe for cleaning granite countertops. It is a mild abrasive that can help remove stains and grime without scratching the surface. However, while baking soda is safe to use, it's essential to avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners on granite, as they can damage the sealant and cause dullness over time. For routine cleaning, simply mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste, apply it to the countertop, and gently scrub with a soft cloth or sponge. Afterward, rinse the surface thoroughly with water and dry it with a soft cloth.
Vinegar and Baking Soda Mixture: When you mix vinegar and baking soda together in water, it creates a chemical reaction that releases carbon dioxide gas, producing bubbles and fizz. The reaction can be represented by the following chemical equation:
NaHCO3 (baking soda) + CH3COOH (vinegar) → NaCH3COO (sodium acetate) + CO2 (carbon dioxide) + H2O (water)
The rapid release of carbon dioxide gas causes the bubbling and fizzing effect. This mixture of vinegar and baking soda can be useful for various cleaning purposes due to its effervescent action. However, when using it for cleaning surfaces like granite, caution is required. As mentioned earlier, granite is sensitive to acidic substances like vinegar, and using the vinegar-baking soda mixture may not be suitable for routine cleaning of granite countertops. Instead, stick to using a mild baking soda paste as described earlier to avoid potential damage to the granite surface.