Do you have laminate countertops in your kitchen? Then you should know that they require a lot of care and attention to keep them looking great. They are not as durable as other types of countertops because the finish is just applied on top of the material underneath. This means that it can be scratched or damaged if mishandled, leading to permanent damage down the line. Fortunately, there are many ways to clean and maintain your laminate countertops so that they last for years! These tips will give you all the information you need to get started and learn how to get stains out of countertops.
Use a damp cloth by wiping it in one direction.
You can also use an ammonia-free cleaner and a clean, dry cloth to remove dirt and other stains. Wipe your countertop with a damp cloth after each time you cook. This will keep the oils from food off of it so that they do not permanently stain or damage it.
Avoid abrasive cleaners!
The use of an abrasive cleaner can cause scratches that will make the laminate brittle and susceptible to breakage. These chemicals can discolor and dull the finish on your countertops.
Use a mild, non-abrasive cleanser for best results when cleaning with water. A little bit goes a long way!
Try using warm water, vinegar and baking soda.
These compounds are non-abrasive and will not scratch or dull the finish on your countertops. They also work very well to scrub away tough spots or spills.
If you have stubborn dirt or grease on your laminate countertop, try filling a bowl with warm water, baking soda (or dish soap), vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide. Soak the rag in this mixture and rub it over the stain until it is gone. Rinse thoroughly with water afterward so that no residue remains behind.
To remove scuffs from your laminate counters, such as those from silverware or dishes rubbing against them during washing, use toothpaste! It's all because of its texture which can help buff away scuff marks without damaging surfaces like plastic laminates are prone to do when scratched too aggressively.
Never place hot pots directly onto your laminate countertop.
Always use trivets, mats, or heat-resistant pads between hot items and counters to prevent damage from occurring. They'll help you avoid ruining your beautiful countertop and increase its longevity.
You can also use a towel to place hot pots on that have been soaked in water before placing them down, which will act as both an insulator and protector for the surface below. Just grasp one corner of the towel and pull it over so that you're holding two corners in each hand. The last two corners you're holding should be hanging down without touching the hot pot or counters below it, and then place your hands on each side of the pot to transfer heat.
Apply mineral oil every few months for added protection.
The oil will also help preserve the surface so that it lasts longer. Spills, stains, and other possible damages will be easier to clean in the future because mineral oil is a protective coating that seals and shields your laminate counters.
You can find mineral oil at your local grocery store, hardware store, or online. Apply it with a clean cloth, damp rag, or sponge, and then buff it away with dry paper towels to avoid leaving any excess behind.
If you have hard water, clean your counters after every meal.
Minerals can leave behind spots on the surface of laminate countertops that could then become permanent.
To prevent this, wipe down your counters after every use with a damp cloth and mild cleanser to remove the minerals before they have time to set in.
Final Thoughts
We know how much you love your laminate counters and want them to last for years! Replacing laminate countertops may not always be an option for budget or other reasons, so it's vital to maintain them. These tips will not only help you clean your laminate countertops but also keep them looking good and lasting a lot longer!
