August 3, 2018 by Mulberry Maids
Cleaning your kitchen countertops requires a bit more than a simple wipe down with any cleaning product within your reach. While it is not a complicated process, you need to make sure you are using the proper cleaning solution for your specific counter material, as to not damage it. Read on for a breakdown of common countertop materials and tips on safely cleaning them.
Laminate Countertop
Laminate countertops are pretty easy to clean, but care should be taken to not scratch or damage the surface, as the material is generally pretty weak. You can use a simple dish washing soap and water solution, applied to the counter with a microfiber cloth. Wring out the cloth with clean water as you go.
Granite Countertop
Like laminate countertops, granite is fairly easy to clean. You should use a dish washing soap and warm water solution with a microfiber cloth. Avoid using vinegar or other acidic solutions, as it will be damaging to the granite surface. Clean your counter with the microfiber cloth and soap solution, rinsing the rag with water as needed. If there are leftover streaks, use a dry microfiber cloth to buff the surface to get rid of the streaks and marks.
Soapstone Countertop
Soapstone counters require a similar process to clean as granite countertops. Use a warm water and dish soap solution with a microfiber cloth, and buff as needed afterwards. Similar to granite, do not use vinegar or acidic solutions on the soapstone, as it will damage the material. Also, try to avoid using powdered cleaners and heavy scrubbing as this will damage the shine of the soapstone. For damaged soapstone, mineral oil can be used to treat it to revive the shine.
Concrete Countertop
If you are starting to notice a trend here, you would be correct! For concrete countertops, you want to make sure to not damage the sealant. Like the surfaces above, use a warm water and dish washing soap solution with a microfiber cloth to clean the countertop. Rinse the microfiber cloth with water as needed, and buff the surface with a dry microfiber cloth when finished.
Corian Countertop
Corian is a great product that is non-porous and stain resistant. Like the other surfaces above, a simple warm water and dish washing soap solution works best with a microfiber cloth. Avoid using window cleaner on this surface, as it can dull the finish.
Quartz Countertop
Quartz is a resilient and strong mineral, that makes a great countertop. There are a few different products that can be used to clean it, but it is always best to use the mildest chemicals possible. Like the materials above, a warm water and dish soap solution works well with a microfiber cloth. To really bring out the shine and brilliance of the quartz, try using glass cleaner or ammonia. Buff out any left over marks or streaks with a dry microfiber cloth.