HOW TO CLEAN KITCHEN COUNTERTOPS

Keeping your kitchen countertops clean is easy, but different materials call for different care. You'll want to clean without discoloring or damaging your countertop surface.

Never use abrasive cleaners and avoid scouring pads when cleaning quartz countertops. Chemicals like nail polish remover, turpentine, drain cleaner, oven cleaner, and concentrated bleach can disintegrate the bonds between quartz and the resin that holds it together.

When cleaning granite and marble countertops, vinegar, ammonia, bleach, and steel wool can etch, dull, and weaken the surface sealant, ruining the gloss and protection.

Laminate countertops are made of a mix of plastic, paper, and board. Generally, the best way to clean laminate countertops is to wipe up any spills immediately and avoid cleaning with too much water.

Butcher block countertops need a gentler touch than other surfaces, since the wood can absorb moisture and residue over time. Don't let your cleaner sit on the surface – simply spray and wipe clean.

Stainless steel countertops are durable and heat-resistant, but they can show water spots, fingerprints, and scratches easily. Wipe with the grain of the metal and avoid abrasive pads or chloride-based cleaners, which can cause pitting or discoloration over time.

Concrete countertops are typically sealed to resist stains, but the sealant can wear down with harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing. Avoid vinegar and acidic cleaners, which can etch the surface, and reseal periodically to maintain protection.

Cleaning with mild dish soap and warm water won't help much with polishing. Every time you use a liquid soap, it leaves behind a thin layer of residue. Over time, this layer becomes thick enough to dull the countertop material.

It can also seep below your sealant and cause unsightly darker areas, usually around faucets and over-mount sink edges. Another popular home remedy is baking soda, but cleaning too carelessly with an abrasive can scratch and dull the surface.

Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner removes grease, grime, and residue from all types of countertops. The powerful degreaser works fast, removing stains and fingerprints while leaving behind a streak-free surface.

We recommend cleaning countertops daily and disinfecting them twice a week. Immediately spray a disinfectant after handling raw meat, eggs, or dairy products. See how to disinfect countertops.

When disinfecting, be careful not to use hydrogen peroxide on natural stone like marble, travertine, or unsealed granite.

Directions for Cleaning Kitchen Countertops:

1. Clear countertops. Move appliances, food, dishes, and other items onto a different surface.
2. Remove crumbs and debris. Wipe crumbs into your sink or trash can. You can use a plastic putty knife to scrape off any stuck-on food.
3. Mix your Simple Green solution. Mix 1 oz. of Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner with 4 cups of clean water in a spray bottle.
4. Apply Simple Green. Spray the solution onto the countertop. If you're cleaning a lot of counter space, spray section-by-section so the spray doesn't dry before you can wipe it up.
5. Scrub, if necessary. Use a non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth for a clean surface without scratching your counters.
6. Wipe away. Thoroughly wipe the counter with a damp sponge, microfiber cloth, or paper towel to ensure a residue-free surface.
7. Dry. Dry countertops with a soft cloth or kitchen towel completely.

TIP: Always use cutting boards, trivets, and hot pads to protect your counters from hot pans.

TIP: Natural stones like granite and marble surfaces should be resealed regularly to help protect them from stains. Reseal granite every 1 to 3 years and marble every 6 to 12 months. Concrete countertops should be resealed every 1-3 years, similar to granite, to maintain stain resistance. Laminate and quartz counters do not require sealant.