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DesignCafe’s comprehensive list of cleaning hacks will keep your kitchen countertops dazzling.
Does kitchen countertop cleaning give you nightmares? Does it feel like you are spending a better part of your life keeping the kitchen tidy without it making any difference? Are you always looking for answers to how to clean kitchen countertops? Does walking into your neighbour’s home give you kitchen envy? You are not alone.
Kitchen countertops can make the most of us like hamsters on a wheel — the job is never ending and seems pointless. It’s natural to feel defeated by it. After all, the kitchen is a high-traffic area, especially since many of us are working from home. But fret not. We have just what you need — not a genie that will clean up your kitchen countertops but delightful hacks that will turn you into that genie that you so wish for. Let’s go.
Before You Clean The Kitchen Countertop
First, a few words of caution. Here are some common mistakes homeowners make while cleaning their kitchen countertops. Do avoid them to keep your countertop pretty and effective.
- Avoid acidic cleaners. Using the same cleaning agent over every surface is appealing, but it has its cons. Vinegar and similar acidic cleaners make stone and granite kitchen countertops lose their lustre. Even bleach tends to dull the stone countertops. Check your all-purpose cleaner ingredients. If it has citric acid, avoid it at all costs.
- Not sealing the stone countertops. Water and stains can ruin your stone kitchen countertop. Sealing the countertop will ensure they stay pretty for longer. If a few drops of water percolate into the stone countertop, sealing is due. Spritz sealing spray on the countertop with a soft cloth, rub it in, and you are done.
- Not disinfecting. The kitchen counters are a haven for germs with constant moisture and high touch frequency. Spray a disinfectant, especially after using raw eggs and meat, let it sit for the designated time (check your disinfectant container for ‘dwell time’), and wipe it off with a clean cloth.
- Not cleaning the cleaning cloths. Wash and dry them out after every cleaning to avoid transferring the germs to other areas. Replace microfibre cloths or sponges after a month’s use.
How To Clean Quartz Kitchen Countertops
Wondering how to clean Caesarstone quartz countertops or how to clean Cambria quartz countertops? It’s pretty simple. What applies to one applies to the other. Quartz kitchen countertops are non-porous and durable. Accidental oil spills and stains are no cause to worry. Just ensure you are using non-abrasive and mild cleaning supplies.
Tools you need: Dish soap, water, non-abrasive glass cleaner, microfibre cloth
What to do: Simply wipe off for regular cleaning. When you’re dealing with stains, use soap, water and a microfibre cloth. Use a non-abrasive glass cleaner if handling tough stains. Yes, it is this simple to take care of this kitchen countertop material.
How To Clean Granite Kitchen Countertops
Tools you need: Dish soap, water, non-abrasive glass cleaner, microfibre cloth, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda
What to do: Granite countertops clean up well with regular soap and water. For tougher stains, use a paste made of baking soda and wipe it off after some time. Granite kitchen countertops do well with annual resealing.
Word of caution: Do not use acidic cleaners or bleach. This will help to maintain the shine and durability of granite countertops in the kitchen.
How To Clean And Polish Marble Kitchen Countertops
Marble responds almost immediately to anything acidic. So, handle the lemons, wine, vinegar, and tomatoes with care. Accidental spills should be immediately wiped off. Neutralise their acidic reaction by sprinkling baking soda.
Tools you need: Dish soap, water, non-abrasive glass cleaner, microfibre cloth, hydrogen peroxide (12%), baking soda, tape and plastic (if you are getting really intense about stain removal)
What to do: The simple harmony between microfibre cloth, warm water, and dish soap works wonders for the everyday cleaning of marble kitchen countertops. For stubborn stains, apply a paste of baking soda or hydrogen peroxide with water. Let it sit overnight under plastic sealed with tape. Wipe off the paste. Repeat if needed. Remember that you can use hydrogen peroxide on light-coloured marble only. Do not use it for cleaning darker marble countertops. Marble kitchen countertops need resealing about every six months, so remember to do that regularly.
How To Clean Laminate Kitchen Countertops
Tools you need: Regular cleaner (mild) and baking soda
What to do: A damp, soft, clean cloth is enough to clean laminate tops. Use a mild detergent and avoid strong acid or alkali products. For stain removal, make a baking soda and water paste, apply it to the stain and wipe it off after five minutes. Do not use steel or abrasive scrubs.
It is quicker to run through a regular kitchen countertop cleaning ritual, but deep cleaning needs forethought and patience. Getting a handsome clean isn’t just about spraying, wiping, and walking away. You can achieve professional cleaning for your kitchen countertops with a few tools and intelligent methods. Follow our fixes to clean your kitchen countertops effectively and without much elbow grease.
