A Quick Guide to Kitchen and Bath Countertop Maintenance

February 12, 2013

Once you’ve invested in beautiful new countertops or are remodeling and want to revitalize your existing countertops, you want to know how to take care of the specific material with the right products and procedures.

Glass Countertops
Glass countertops are surprisingly low maintenance and an environmentally sound choice when considering going green and reducing the carbon footprint. Due to the nonporous surface, staining is not of great concern, however, to avoid or seal against scratching, using a product such as ForeverSeal® that keeps scratching to a minimum and your glass surface looking lustrous.

Wood Countertops
Wood countertops are a comfortable fit, and beautiful in both country and urban kitchens. To protect these counters from everyday use, always protect them by using trivets and pads for hot items. However, if they are stained or starting to show their age, simply sand with a 120-grit paper followed by 180-grit. Once the surface is smooth and unblemished, pour on warm food-grade (USP) mineral oil. Allow it to soak in for about one half hour. Remember that the type of oil is important: cooking oil can turn rancid. Wipe away excess oil with a clean cloth.

Granite Countertops
This hard surface is as durable as it is aesthetically pleasing. Remember to never use harsh chemicals. You can keep it clean with a damp cloth and by using a neutral PH cleaning product, typically recommended by your kitchen designer. When dealing with oil stains, try this home remedy of one cup of baking soda or flour mixed with approximately five tablespoons of dish soap. Add enough water to give it a paste consistency and apply overnight, covered with plastic wrap.

Silestone® Countertops
The do’s and don’ts of these countertops are simple: never use rough or fibrous sponges to clean, only soft non-scratch cloths or sponges. Use mild products such as Fantastic®, Lysol® and Windex® or other commercial glass cleaner when cleaning. Silestone® retains its luster for years.

We highly recommend holding onto all product literature and maintenance booklets for all of your appliances, cabinetry and countertops. Store the manufacturers’ telephone numbers in your cell phone or telephone directory for easy access to the company’s customer service department.

Contact Schrappers Fine Cabinetry and Design for more info.