Kitchens are one of the most frequently used rooms in the home. Food preparation, quick clean ups, the days mess – all happen and most frequently on our countertops. Regardless if your countertops are made from granite, laminate, or any other material, they should be able to withstand all spills.
There is no single, one-size-fits-all tip for cleaning countertops, every surface is different, and some materials can withstand kitchen mishaps better than others. MCK Kitchen and Bath offers these cleaning tips to ensure your countertops will sparkle and shine for many years to come.
- Granite is an igneous rock, and can be porous if it isn’t sealed properly, so it should be cleaned thoroughly and sealed before it’s installed. Acidic cleaning products and anything vinegar-based can damage granite, so only use warm water, a conservative amount of soap and a wet sponge or soft cloth to clean the surface.
- Marble countertops are porous and susceptible to stains, but they aren’t affected by heat. Treat marble with a special stone sealer to reduce its porosity, and wipe up acidic food spills immediately to prevent permanent surface etching. Abrasive cleaners will damage the surface of marble, and oil polish and soft waxes may discolor it. Borax rubbed into the surface with a moistened cloth will also clean marble. Rinse with warm water, and buff dry with a soft cloth.
- Stainless steel is a popular choice, but it is very sensitive to the atmosphere, and can become permanently damaged when exposed to harsh chemicals. Regularly wash the stainless steel surface with warm water and a small amount of baking soda. Never use abrasive materials like steel wool. Rough cloths or pads will scratch the surface and ruin the reflective finish.
- Many kitchens have Formica, plastic laminate, or acrylic countertops. They’re practically seamless, giving cooks a smooth, waterproof work surface that’s easy to clean. Unfortunately, plastic laminate burns, scratches, and stains fairly easily. For general cleaning, a two-sided scrubbing pad with fiber on one side and a sponge on the other works particularly well.
- Concrete is a versatile countertop option, cured and sealed for protection and longevity. Clean concrete surfaces with a mixture of vinegar and water, and always avoid abrasive soaps and cleaning solutions containing harsh chemicals. Abrasive pads and sponges can damage the surface as well.
- Glazed and unglazed ceramic tiles, wood, and silestone are other options that require specialized care and maintenance to avoid permanent damage.
At MCK Kitchen and Bath, we can design and manufacture your kitchen and our large selection of counter tops is one reason why we have thousands of satisfied customers. Call or visit one of our showrooms today at Bayers Lake: 902-445-5736 and Burnside: 902-468-6453 for more details, and to learn what financing options we offer.