It can be a difficult task to keep your kitchen counters clean, especially when the different materials need different treatment. But don’t worry! You can keep your kitchen surfaces clean, shiny and brand-new with a few easy tips and tricks.
Are you ready to become a professional cleaner? We’ll dive right into this ultimate guide to cleaning different types of kitchen counters like a pro!
Want to have your interiors renovated?
Keep Granite Countertops Gleaming with
Granite countertops are popular due to their stunning appearance and durability. Maintaining their shine requires a little extra care, however.
Cleaning Tips: Wipe the surface first with warm, soapy water. Avoid using scrub pads or abrasive cleaning products, which can scratch surfaces. Use a mild bleach solution to disinfect, but test it first in a hidden place.
To remove stubborn stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain and gently scrub with a soft bristle brush. For tough stains, you may need to repeat the process several times.
Sealing Granite Countertops: Periodically sealing granite countertops will prevent stains and make cleaning them easier. Seal stone surfaces with a sealer designed specifically for them to keep that perfect finish.
Does your interior need an upgrade?
Laminate countertops: Simple and sleek
Although laminate countertops are popular for their affordability and easy maintenance, they can suffer from stains or scratches if they are not properly maintained.
Cleaning Tips: Use warm, soapy water to clean laminate countertops or a non-abrasive cleaner. Avoid using stiff-bristled brushes and an abrasive pad, as they can cause scratches.
Use vinegar and water to remove stains. If the stain is persistent, apply a mixture of baking soda with water and let it sit. Then rinse well.
It is one of the easiest surfaces for maintenance because it does not require sealing.
Stone Countertops: Limestone and Slate
Stone countertops such as soapstone, limestone, or slate add rustic charm to any home, but they require special care to keep their appearance.
Cleaning Tips: Avoid acidic cleaners such as vinegar or lemon juice. They can damage the stone. After cleaning, rinse the stone thoroughly.
Stain removal: Apply a paste of baking soda and a soft bristle brush to stains. Stone surfaces may need several applications to remove stubborn stains.
Sealing Stone Countertops: To protect your stone from stains and spills, you can seal the countertop with a sealer suitable for the type of stone. The stone will not only be more beautiful but also more resistant to damage.
Butcher Block Countertops: Wood That Wows
Butcher-block counters offer a natural, warm look. However, they are more susceptible to scratches and stains.
Cleaning Tips: To clean the surface, use a mixture of mild dishwashing soap and water with a soft cloth. To sanitise, use a mix of 1 tablespoon bleach and 1 gallon of warm water. Rinse immediately after using the solution.
For light stains, sprinkle some salt and scrub the area with half a lemon. To remove tougher stains, use a cotton swab dipped into hydrogen peroxide. If the stain is stubborn, you may need to sand and refinish.
Sealing Butcher-Block Countertops: Regularly oiling butcher-block countertops prevents them from drying. Mineral oil is the best choice for this task. Avoid linseed and vegetable oils, as they may go rancid.
Want to update your interiors
Classic and colourful ceramic tile countertops
Ceramic tile countertops are a great way to add colour and vibrancy to your kitchen. However, they require regular cleaning to maintain the grout lines.
Cleaning Tips: Use warm, soapy water to clean the tiles. Avoid abrasive cleaning products. Add a few drops of vinegar to the cleaning water to prevent soap scum.
Grout is prone to staining and bacteria. To scrub grout lines, use a mild bleach solution and a toothbrush. Seal the grout afterwards to prevent future stains.
Sealing Tile Grout. While the ceramic tiles may not require sealing, the grout line definitely does. Seal the grout with a sealer to prevent stains and moisture.
Marble Countertops – Elegant and Sensitive
The porous nature of marble countertops can make them more difficult to maintain.
Cleaning Tips: To clean marble, use a soft, damp cloth and a dishwashing liquid with a neutral ph. Avoid letting the water remain on the marble surface to prevent water marks.
To remove tough stains, a thick paste poultice can be used. Acidic substances such as wine or citrus can cause etching.
Sealing Marble: It is important to seal marble regularly to prevent staining. Seal your marble surface with a sealer designed for this purpose.
The Final Touches to a Clean Kitchen
Maintaining a regular cleaning routine will ensure that your kitchen counters remain beautiful for many years. The right cleaning techniques will not only improve the appearance of your kitchen but also extend the life of the countertops.
Are you ready to step up your kitchen cleaning? Visit the Homebliss Blog for more tips and tricks! Keep those kitchens clean and sparkling together!