How to Clean Your Kitchen Countertops
When it comes to cleaning your kitchen counters, the methods vary by material. Read on to learn which types of cleaners are safe for your countertop.
For many people, the kitchen is the heart of their home. It’s where we come together as a family to share stories about our day and to celebrate holidays and special events. Food has a way of bringing people together. With that said, the kitchen can also experience the most wear and tear of any room, and cleaning procedures aren’t standard for every surface. Countertops, in particular, require proper care to prevent becoming scratched, cracked or stained, and the cleaning method varies by material.
Read on to discover some best practices to keep your countertops clean and in good condition. And if you’re shopping for new countertops, these tips can help you decide which material will best fit your home and lifestyle.
Laminate
At Bernhardt’s Remodeling Center, we offer laminate countertop surfaces including Wilsonart, Formica, Pionite and Arborite. Compared to other materials, laminates are low-maintenance and stain-resistant. Clean laminates with a soft sponge or cloth and mild dishwashing liquid mixed with water. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, bleach and steel wool, which can dull and scratch the finish. When stains do happen, remove them by gently applying a paste of baking soda and water on the stained area for five minutes. To protect the surface, avoid rubbing the paste in. Instead, wipe it up with a soft cloth and rinse with water.
Solid Surface
Our solid surface selections include Himacs and Dupont Corian. To clean, use a damp microfiber cloth and warm soapy water, an ammonia-based household cleaner or a dedicated countertop cleaner.
Quartz
We carry Cambria, Corian Quartz, LG Viatera Silestone, ECO by Consentino, Caesarstone and Hanstone quartz products. Quartz is a strong, low-maintenance surface and requires little special care. To clean, use a damp cloth or paper towel. If necessary, you can use a small amount of nonabrasive cleanser (no bleach), or a solution of rubbing alcohol and water.
Granite
Granite should be cleaned with a nonabrasive sponge or cloth dipped in warm water and mild dishwashing liquid. To avoid streaking, dry the surface with a microfiber cloth. Take care to avoid using acidic cleaners, including vinegar. To disinfect the countertop, combine a 50/50 solution of water and rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle and spray the surface. Let it sit for three to five minutes, then wipe with a wet cloth and dry with a microfiber cloth.
Ceramic tile
Our ceramic tile selections include Daltile, Florida Tile, East Coast Tile, Shaw Tile, American Olean and Questech. Tile is water- and heat-resistant, and resists scratches. However, the grout can stain and mildew if it isn’t sealed yearly. To clean tiles and grout, use a gentle all-purpose spray cleaner. Avoid harsh cleaning products, which can damage grout and glazed tiles.
Editor’s note: This article includes the best methods for daily cleaning of your countertops. To treat stains or to do a deep clean, we recommend following the manufacturer’s recommendations, as they will vary by material.
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