How To Keep Any Type Of Countertop Spotless

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April 19, 2017

Kitchen countertops see a lot of traffic.  There’s food prep, children may sit at countertops doing their homework, or it may be where you do your entertaining.

With so many functions, it’s important to guarantee a clean kitchen countertop for functionality, health, and aesthetics.

Here are a few solutions to ensure a clean and functional kitchen countertop for years to come…

REPLACE/REFINISH

In some cases, your kitchen countertops can look old and worn.  No amount of cleaning product can bring your countertop back to life again.  It may be time to replace them!

Look no further than the Edge Showroom at Builder Supply Outlet.  Check out all our Edge kitchen cabinet and other brands by clicking here.

We feature Shiloh, Aspect, Eclipse, WayPoint, MidContinent, Bertch, and Prior Creek cabinetry.

Sometimes you can refinish them for a lower price using an epoxy finish, laminate, or paint/sealant – but not every often.

UNDERSTANDING MATERIAL

Know what material your countertop is and what solutions will work best.  From butcher block wood to ceramic tile, a cleaning solution that works on one may not work on another.

Here are a few tips for your specific kitchen countertop:

CERAMIC

One of the biggest issues with ceramic tiles is the grout.  While day-to-day maintenance will help with aesthetics, most of the bacteria and staining is in the grout.  Using grout cleaner two to three times per year for a deep clean will help keep your countertops in the best shape.

GLASS

While most cleaning solutions will work on glass, be sure to not use a scouring pad or any other rough cleaning tools. This can cause scratches in the glass surface.

LAMINATE

Laminate countertops also can’t withstand rough cleaning tools.  A simple rag with soap and water will do the trick. Always wipe up spills as soon as they happen on laminate countertops, as they are more likely to stain this surface.

NATURAL STONE 

Stone countertops can be sensitive to staining based on how absorbent they are.  Natural stone countertops should be sealed regularly depending on the stone to prevent stains.  Additionally, never use citrus cleaners on natural stone.

QUARTZ 

Engineered stone, or quartz countertops are the easiest to clean and keep stain-free.  Spills wipe up easily with a damp cloth and cleaner.

STAINLESS STEEL 

It’s difficult to keep stainless from streaking.  To get a streak-free shine, regularly buff with an olive or mineral oil to maintain a beautiful shine.

WOOD

Wood countertops are a must in the chef’s dream kitchen.  This type of countertop can’t handle water-based cleaners like other materials.  A wood cleaner is needed to keep wood countertops in great shape.

SCHEDULED CLEANINGS 

All countertops need to be cared for regularly to maintain their functionality, look, and cleanliness.  Create a schedule you and your family can stick to.  Do a deep clean once a month and set reminders for when your counter may need to be resealed.

NATURAL SOLUTIONS

Consider natural cleaning solutions as opposed to commercial products.  This is especially important in an area where food is prepared.  Natural cleaning solutions often can be made from ingredients in your home.  While baking soda, vinegar and essential oils are what many go to when it comes to natural cleaning products, always check to see if your countertop material can handle those combinations.

IMPORTANT!

Spills are going to happen.  The key is to ensure all spills are cleaned up quickly.  The longer a spill sits, the more likely it can stain your countertop.  Keep a damp cloth nearby to pick up spills quickly as they happen and wipe down the surface area when you’re done preparing food.

A clean kitchen countertop can make for a happier and healthier space.  Develop a countertop cleaning routine to keep your countertops looking good as new.

Feel free to stop into Builder Supply Outlet or the Edge Showroom with any home improvement questions you may have regarding cleaning, tile, sealing, grout, backsplash, windows, kitchen cabinets, remodeling, construction, contractors, designing/installing a new kitchen or bathroom — or anything else.  We can help you through the entire design and installation process from A-Z.  Or call us anytime in Broadview, IL at 1-708-343-3900. You can also make an appointment to meet with one of our Edge Kitchen and Bathroom designers at no charge by clicking here.