Obviously, there is no one-size-fits-all means of cleaning countertops. Since countertops can come in a variety of compositions such as acrylic, granite, laminate, wood, and other materials, it will be dependent upon the composition as to the best means to clean your countertops. Luckily, Clean Heart Maids is here to provide our expert tips for countertop cleaning.
It’s important to understand what type of maintenance your countertop requires before you don your cleaning gloves and begin to clean up your countertop. Each different type of surface is different and will have different cleaning requirements.
How to Clean the Different Types of Countertops
Granite
An igneous rock, granite, is used frequently on countertops. It comes in a wide array of colors and is a very stylish choice for countertops. It can also be used to make floor tiles as well as paving stones. However, the most popular use for granite is as a countertop.
Anything acidic will damage granite, so it’s best to not use any vinegar or lemon-based cleaning solutions. Mild soap and water are the best cleaning products to use on granite. Granite is a porous material if not properly sealed. It’s important to seal granite before installation so that it will last longer. Because granite is acidic, make sure to check with the manufacturer for more details on cleaning your granite countertop.
Wood
Easily damaged, wood is another material that countertops are often composed of. It’s important to wipe spills off of wood immediately to ensure that the wood remains dry. Approximately every month or so, it’s important to rub mineral oil or linseed oil into the wood to protect it from damage by moisture. Some important cleaning tips for wood are as follows:
- Stains can be removed using a solution of 1/4 cup of chlorine bleach in 1 quart of warm water. Rinse well, dry, and apply a thin coating of oil.
- To get rid of odors, rub the wooden countertops with a slice of lemon.
- A good cleaning solution is 1/2 cup of baking soda dissolved in a quart of warm water. Gently massage the paste into the wood with a synthetic scouring pad. Rinse well, blot up any excess moisture, and dry. Restore the finish using boiled linseed oil that is massaged into the wood with a ball of fine steel wool. Apply two coats of the oil 24 hours apart. Blot up any excess.
Stainless Steel
With clean lines and a modern appearance, stainless steel is a very popular choice in countertops. However, it takes a serious dedication to keep stainless steel surfaces clean and shiny without any fingerprints. Stainless steel is sensitive to the atmosphere, and exposure to harsh chemicals or other abrasive materials can seriously damage its surface leaving permanent damage to your surface. Wet materials can discolor this surface, and you’ll want to keep your stainless steel dry at all times.
In order to maintain cleanliness on stainless steel, it’s important to wash the surface with baking soda. Dry your countertop completely after cleaning to ensure that there are no water spots. Keep an eye out for mineral deposits that can be difficult to clean off of stainless steel. To remove mineral deposits, use a small amount of vinegar and rinse thoroughly with warm water. Avoid using abrasives such as steel wool on stainless steel as this can scratch the surface. Rough cleaning cloths or scrubbers can also cause scratches to the delicate surface and ruin the reflective surface.
Formica
This popular material is inexpensive and requires minimal maintenance. If properly cared for, it will last for many years to come. Available in a variety of colors and patterns, it’s easy to install over existing laminate countertops which can help to ease the cost of expenses when replacing your countertops.
Formica counters are easy to clean as long as you avoid abrasive cleaners that contain bleach or ammonia. Instead, use mild cleaning solutions and a soft cloth to clean your countertop. Make sure that spills are wiped up immediately to avoid stains. If a stain sets in, it can be very difficult to restore it to its former glory. Formica can show streaks if not properly dried. However, a good household glass cleaner can quickly restore the surface to its former glory.
Silestone
Composed of quartz, this is a tough natural material. Silestone countertops should have a protective polish that helps to prevent scratches. This will help to protect it regardless of what comes into contact with it. Silestone has the added advantage of being able to withstand lemon juice, coffee, wine, olive oil, makeup spills, and vinegar. The surface can be cleaned using a mild household cleaner. Avoid harsh cleaners and make sure that all cleaning cloths are non-abrasive. Avoid any heavy pressure when cleaning to help keep the surface intact. To remove stains, use a soft cloth and soak the area well with a mild cleaner.
Concrete
This versatile material comes in various colors and styles and is eco-friendly. The main ingredients of this material are sand and water. You can also include recycled materials such as glass and other recyclable materials as well.
Concrete is frequently cured and sealed to protect the surface and increase longevity. Concrete can be cleaned with a mixture of water and vinegar.
Avoid anything abrasive, including abrasive cleaning solutions with harsh chemicals. Soft cloths that aren’t abrasive are highly recommended to avoid scratching the surface.
Ceramic Tile
Glazed or unglazed ceramic tile is ideal for kitchen countertops. Unlike other surfaces, ceramic tile can take heat from hot pots and pans. Ceramic is very durable, however. The grout that is between the ceramic tiles can be soft and porous, and prone to cracks. Keep these tips in mind to keep ceramic countertops clean:
- A toothbrush or soft nail brush is ideal for cleaning grout. Dipped in bleach, it can also help to remove any mold or mildew.
- Avoid harsh cleaners that are abrasive as they may scratch the glaze on the ceramic tiles.
- Foam and spray ceramic tile and grout cleaners are available. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions to get your countertop clean. Rinse well with water and make sure that you wear rubber gloves, and avoid inhaling any of the mist from the spray cleaners.
Acrylic
Acrylic countertops are very durable. Hot pans will, however, leave a permanent burn on the surface of the countertop. Scouring powder and steel wool will readily remove scratches and stains on the countertop.
Routine cleaning should include a mildly abrasive cleaner that is directly applied to the wet countertop. Rinse well and buff dry with a soft cloth.
Marble
Porous and easily susceptible to stains, marble isn’t affected by heat from hot pots or pans. Marble should be treated with a special stone sealer in order to reduce the porosity. Wipe up any wine spills immediately as well as any fruit juice or acidic substance such as lemon or lime juice. The acidity can permanently etch the surface of the marble. Abrasive cleaners can mar and damage the surface of the marble countertop. Oils and polishes with oils in them will also discolor the marble top.
There are many commercial cleaners available, including borax, that can be massaged into the surface using a moistened cloth. Rinse well with warm water and then buff the surface dry with a soft cloth.
Plastic Laminate
It’s pretty typical for countertops to have plastic laminate surfaces. Nearly seamless, these offer a smooth waterproof work area that is easy to clean and maintain. Sadly, they also burn and scratch quite easily and are very susceptible to stains.
To properly clean plastic laminate, apply a light wax or furniture wax to help resist stains and scratching. Avoid using any abrasive cleaners or steel wool on this surface.
For routine cleaning, use a two-sided scrubbing pad that has fiber on one side and a softer sponge on the other side. This works quite well on plastic laminate. Moisten the sponge slightly with water, and using the fiber side down, gently loosen any greasy buildup and scorched foods that may have adhered to the surface.
Final Notes on Countertop Cleaning
So, in conclusion, whether your counters are wood, granite, marble, or acrylic, we hope the above tips help you with cleaning countertops in your home. A clean home is a happy home, and that includes the countertops. So, if you’re in need of assistance when it comes to keeping your space clean, call Clean Heart Maids today!