While most daily smudges on your countertops can be easily removed with a quick wipe, some stains could require more intensive cleaning methods. The thing is, if you want to keep your countertops looking good, you need to be careful about how you clean them.
However, not all types of countertops have the same characteristics, so you need to pay special attention to that. Luckily for you, we'll share how to clean different types of countertops, saving you the time and effort of searching for solutions.
Some considerations before you begin
Don't let your impulse for cleanliness ruin your countertops! There are some precautions you have to take in order to keep them clean but harm-free.
While you might think you could use some of the many cleaning products you use daily, most of them can cause damage to your countertops. The most dangerous are those that are too acidic or basic cleaning products, such as undiluted vinegar or bleach.
Also, extreme temperatures have adverse consequences on your countertops, like shine loss, dulling, or twisting and swelling, depending on the material. So, even if hot water works better to remove dirt and grime, avoid using it here.
Stone countertops
Engineered quartz, quartzite, marble, granite, and soapstone are among homeowners' favorite types of countertops, as they give kitchens a fancy and elegant look while being durable. However, they can start to wear down if you don't clean them the proper way.
Although it may seem like stone countertops need special products to keep them clean, you can create a cleaner from the comfort of your home. Simply mix a squirt of dish soap and a teaspoon of baking soda in a spray bottle, then fill it with water and shake until everything mixes well.
Once ready, spray your homemade mixture on a microfiber cloth and wipe your countertops. Don't wet the surface directly, as water could seep through some porous stone materials. When you finish, use another dampened microfiber cloth to rinse.
Laminate countertops
These types of countertops can withstand a little more when it comes to cleaning products. However, knowing what to use is still essential if you want to keep them looking good.
Make a cleaning solution by mixing one cup of warm water with four tablespoons of baking soda in a spray bottle, and spray the mixture all over your countertops. Before it starts to dry, spray a 50/50 vinegar and water mix so the baking soda starts to bubble.
While the cleaner is still bubbling, use a clean cloth and wipe it so the foam helps you dislodge the dirt. Finally, dampen another cloth and use it to rinse any remaining residue.
Stainless steel countertops
Shiny as these countertops are, they can quickly look dull due to fingerprints, smudges, or wrong cleaning methods. Most of the time, a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth is enough to keep them looking good, but for harder stains, you need to follow the next method:
Make a cleaner in a spray bottle that's 50/50 water and vinegar, and sprinkle it throughout your countertops. Next, wipe everything with a clean microfiber cloth to remove dirt and soften stains.
Vinegar can have negative effects on your countertops if left for too long. So repeat the process, but use soapy water this time to ensure no vinegar and stains remain. Finish by rinsing the countertops with a dampened microfiber cloth.
Tile countertops
These countertops aren't as popular as they were between the '60s and the '90s; still, they add a unique vibe to kitchens. If you fancy tile countertops and want to know how to clean them properly, take a look at this method:
Removing dirt from the tiles is as easy as using soapy water and wiping with a clean cloth. The real challenge comes with removing the grime from the grout, as it can get stuck harder there due to all the bumps and slits.
To remove the grout grime, create a paste by mixing one part water with three parts baking soda. Then, spread it on the grout and use a soft toothbrush to scrub along the grout lines. Once done, rinse with water and dry with a clean cloth.
Wood countertops and butcher blocks
Wooden countertops are the most delicate type of countertop. A cleaning mistake can irreparably damage them, affecting their looks and function. Luckily, you just need to consider a few things to keep them safe.
Pour some hydrogen peroxide (the 3% kind for more effectiveness) inside a spray bottle and spray your countertops. Work in small areas to prevent the liquid from drying before you wipe it. Also, as butcher blocks are usually unfinished, this will keep the wood from absorbing moisture.
When you're done, do a quick wipe with soapy water. The hydrogen peroxide will mainly disinfect your countertops, and the soap will take care of dirt. Finally, rinse with a slightly dampened microfiber cloth.
How to deal with burn marks
Most stains will come out with the methods above, but burn marks need a different kind of care. For most countertops, create a paste by mixing one part of water for every three parts of baking soda in a bowl. The goal is to get a toothpaste-like consistency, so modify quantities as needed.
Spread the paste over the burn spot and scrub with a soft toothbrush. Then, let it rest for five minutes. After waiting, scrub once more to get rid of the mark and rinse with clean water.
For wood countertops, use a fine steel wool moistened with mineral spirits. Scrub the area until the mark is gone, then wipe it—remember to use gloves when handling the dampened wool. If needed, re-seal the area.
Note: Deep scorch marks need professional care. Attempting to clean them by yourself may cause more damage.
Let us ease all your cleaning worries!
If you still don't feel too confident about cleaning your countertops by yourself, let Rain City Maids do it for you! Our cleaning experts are prepared to clean everything in your home professionally and carefully to avoid damage. Your whole house will shine when we finish!
