After spending hours shopping, comparing prices and envisioning your kitchen, you finally found your dream countertop to match your space. However, many homeowners and renters make the mistake of using the wrong products to clean their counters. Even in-demand and high-quality materials are susceptible to scratches, staining, dulling and heat damage. Whether your kitchen features … Continued
After spending hours shopping, comparing prices and envisioning your kitchen, you finally found your dream countertop to match your space. However, many homeowners and renters make the mistake of using the wrong products to clean their counters. Even in-demand and high-quality materials are susceptible to scratches, staining, dulling and heat damage.
Whether your kitchen features stainless steel, marble or a butcher block, we’ll show you the right way to clean and maintain your countertops so they’ll last for years to come. The best part? You may already have the materials you need in your kitchen!
How to Clean Granite Countertops
Natural, durable and available in countless colors, granite is one of the most beloved countertop materials for landlords and homeowners alike. And with the correct care, granite counters can look like new for many years.
Start with a wet soft sponge or microfiber cloth with water, squirting a quarter-sized amount of dish soap into the center. Massage the cloth until suds form, then wring out the excess water. Using gentle, small circular motions, wipe down the entire countertop. If there is dried food splattered on the surface, continue this technique until the food lifts. Lastly, dry the counter with a soft cloth, using light pressure.
Learning how to disinfect countertops made from granite is easier than you may think. Create a solution that is equal parts isopropyl alcohol and water. Spray the mixture onto your counter, then wipe it with a damp cloth. Finish with a dry cloth to remove excess liquid.
How to Clean Laminate Countertops
Efficiently cleaning kitchen countertops made from laminate is virtually effortless. All you need is a mild liquid detergent, baking soda, water and a soft cotton cloth.
First, wet your cloth with water and a dime-sized portion of detergent, and lather. Wipe down your counter once with the wet cloth, then again with a dry cloth.
To remove lingering stains, start by creating a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the mixture to the stain and allow it to sit for five to seven minutes. Do not scrub! Use a cloth to remove the dried solution, and it will quickly make stains vanish from your countertops.
How to Clean Quartz Countertops
Quartz counters have become increasingly popular over the last few years because the material is all-natural and requires minimal maintenance. While quartz is resistant to heavy damage, its vibrancy can dull over time.
You can maintain quartz countertops with mild dish soap and water. Since quartz is nonporous, you don’t have to worry about the stone absorbing water that sits on top. Quartz is also resistant to scratches and stains. However, if you find a stubborn mark on your counter, you can use a glass cleaner and nonabrasive sponge to remove it.
How to Clean Marble Countertops
Marble is undeniably beautiful and classic. However, marble is a natural stone and is therefore more susceptible to acidic solutions. Even homemade solutions of lemon juice or vinegar can cause blemishes and damage your elegant stone.
For everyday cleaning, use a few drops of dish soap and a little bit of water on a soft sponge. With this concentrated solution, you can vigorously scrub your counter until you get a lather. Once you wipe away the soap, you can use a clean dish towel to buff the counter so you get a beautiful shiny finish.
If you have stains on your counter, you can use a paste of water and baking soda. Spread a thick layer of the paste onto the desired area, then cover it with plastic wrap and tape it down to secure. Leave the solution to sit overnight before rinsing.
How to Clean Tile Countertops
Tile counters can be challenging to clean because of their ridges and the fact that they immediately stain from any food or liquid. They also require additional time and attention because of the grout between the panels. Grout easily accumulates dirt and mildew, and absorbs liquids and odors.
You can efficiently clean tile countertops with a mixture of a quarter-cup of bleach and two cups of water. Pour the solution into a spray bottle and spray onto the counter. Make sure to apply a generous amount to the grout lines. Allow the solution to sit for 10 minutes, then scrub the grout with a scrub pad, rinsing every few strokes.
Now you can use a wet sponge to wipe off the bleach from the grout and tiles. Then, take the wet sponge and apply a few drops of dish detergent to the center. Clean your counter with the sponge, making sure to thoroughly rinse the sponge every minute or so. Lastly, dry the counter with a dish towel.
How to Clean Stainless Steel Countertops
Stainless steel offers a modern, minimalistic look for those seeking a contemporary kitchen. However, this material is notoriously tricky to clean. Inconsistent and careless cleaning methods can lead to unsightly streaks and scratches.
You can keep your stainless steel looking pristine with soap and water.
Start with a soft wet washcloth and a dry, soft washcloth. Apply a dime-sized portion of soap to the wet cloth and work into a lather. Wipe the washcloth in the direction of the grain, then immediately dry with the other cloth — using an even amount of pressure across the surface.
If your stainless steel countertop starts showing signs of rust, you can use a homemade paste of lemon juice and baking soda to clear it away.
How to Clean Butcher Block Countertops
Butcher block countertops are a staple of modern kitchen design. They are solid, natural and add another level of warmth to your kitchen. However, properly cleaning butcher block countertops requires a few more steps than your typical counter.
Butcher blocks are more prone to scratching, which gives bacteria and germs the perfect place to breed. To clean a wooden countertop, use hot water, dish soap and a plastic-bristled scrub brush. After scrubbing, wipe down with a moist cloth, followed by a dry cloth.
If you want to disinfect your butcher block, spray it with white vinegar and allow it to sit for five minutes. Then, wipe down the surface with a damp cloth.
Get a Quote for Cleaning Services From Rent Maids Today
No one knows how to clean different countertops better than the experts at Rent Maids! Make cleaning your kitchen an easy and efficient experience by hiring our experienced team of home cleaners. Whether your space needs a spruce-up, a deep clean, or regular visits, Rent Maids provides the ideal solution to all your home care needs.
If you live in the DMV area, save more than time by booking online and getting the level of personalized service that’s only available from a local business. Request your quote today!
