Kitchen countertops take a beating! On a day to day basis they take a lot of abuse. From the paring knife that accidentally catches the counter to the orange juice that makes it nice a sticky. You will need to choose the right countertop cleaner depending on whether your countertop is acrylic, ceramic, marble, plastic laminate, or wood.
1. Acrylic
Acrylic is pretty hard to harm with the exception of a really hot pot which can leave a burn mark. Scuffs and scratches can be lifted with steel wool and a mild abrasive cleanser will take care of the rest of your cleaning needs. Clean, rinse, and buff.
2. Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is very popular for the kitchen. They can easily take the heat of a hot pot and ceramic is very durable. The grout is the weak point and you can use a toothbrush to clean the grout and remove mildew. Don’t use harsh abrasives on the grout. Use a foam tile and grout cleaner and then rinse with water. For the tile itself you can use any mild cleaner or just plain hot soapy water.
3. Cultured Marble
Cultured marble is faux marble made from acrylic but looks like real marble. It is much easier to care for than real marble because it’s less porous. Don’t use any abrasive cleaners. Instead choose a mild cleanser or warm soapy water. Apply a mild cleanser directly to the surface then rinse with water and buff with a soft cloth.
4. Marble
Marble is porous and so it can stain. It’s important to seal your marble regularly with stone sealer. Immediately wipe up fruit juice, wine, or acidic spills to stop permanent surface etching. Do not use abrasive cleansers as they will damage the marble. Do not use waxes or oil polishes either as it will discolor the marble. Use cleansers that are designed for marble. Often warm soapy water that’s rinsed is a good option.
5. Plastic Laminate
The majority of countertops are some type of plastic laminate. They are very easy to maintain, but it does burn, stain, and scratch fairly easy. Clean with a scrubbing pad that has fiber on one side and the sponge on the other. Don’t use anything abrasive like steel wool. Regularly apply a coat of furniture wax. This will help your countertop resist stains.
6. Wood
Your wood countertop will look rich and warm but it’s important that you always use cutting boards and trivets as it can be easily marked up. The good news is wood can be given a light sanding and easily refinished. Stains can be removed with a chlorine bleach mix. Either buy an over the counter product or make up your own mix of ¼ cup bleach and 1 quart warm water. Wash, rinse, and dry. Then apply a coat of oil. If the wood picks up odors rinse with a lemon solution. Clean your wood using ½ cup baking soda in 1 quart of warm water. Rinse well and apply your coat of oil.
Now that you know what countertop cleaner you need you’ll have your counters looking great all the time.
