Cleaning kitchen countertops is not a matter running a cloth and soap on it. There is more to it. The first detail that you have to pay attention to is the material that makes the countertop. Different counters need that you use specific cleaning substances, while some may require that you clean in a specific way. Here is how to clean kitchen countertops without damaging the materials that make it.
Granite Tops
Normal dish soap, warm water, and a microfiber towel are enough. Wipe in long strokes with the wet cloth while rinsing it in clean water to prevent dirt from spreading. Then dry the water with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water stains from forming. Do not use vinegar as this may damage the seal.
Marble Tops
Marble countertops stain easily, and it is best to avoid acids and wine from spilling on it. If they have, make a paste of baking soda and water, let it sit on for two hours then wash it off with a cloth, warm water spray, and nonabrasive soap. If it has no stains, the three are enough for washing any marble top.
Concrete Tops
A neutral cleaner like dish soap and warm water will do for this as it also prevents eroding the sealing. Use a microfiber cloth to clean it. When dry, use a similar cloth to polish it up.
Quartz Tops
Use soap and water to clean these surfaces. Though not prone to harsh stains, if you get one that is a bit hard to remove, use a glass cleaner and a nonabrasive sponge to remove it. These surfaces don’t need any sealing to keep shape and beauty.
Stainless Steel Tops
These are preferred as they don’t subject you to a lot of work. You only have to wipe with a clean cloth and water. You can buff smudges and streaks with a microfiber towel. Do not scratch the surface with steel wool. If some stain has to be removed, make a soap and sodium bicarbonate paste. That will remove it remove it. These tops don’t have to be sealed.
Corian Tops
Unlike quartz that you can clean with a glass cleaner to give it sparkle, don’t try this with Corian as you can make it dull. Like the rest, a microfiber cloth, soap, and warm water are enough. Rinse the cloth as you work. Once done, use a dry cloth to give it a shiny look
Laminate Tops
A soft damp cloth plus mild soap is enough to clean these. It’s not wise to clean these with tough material like steel wool or scrubbers. In case of stains, a sodium bicarbonate paste should be applied on the spot. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a cloth. Don’t use vinegar on these surfaces.
Soapstone Tops
These tops can be cleaned easily with a multipurpose cleaner and a cloth. To keep the soapstone’s look colorful, apply some mineral oil on it. It also helps to prevent stains on these tops.
Bottom Line
Every surface has its need, yet most of them can be cleaned with a nonabrasive soap, warm water, and microfiber cloth. Follow the simple guidelines, and you’ll always enjoy a clean countertop.…