Your countertops are the most used and abused object in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking, unloading groceries, waiting for coffee to brew or just hanging in the kitchen, odds are at some point you use your countertops. With all of this use, they are most likely very dirty, even when you can’t see the dirt. That’s why it’s important to know how to clean countertops the proper way, to ensure you get rid of all of the dirt and germs and maintain their beauty.

How to Clean Countertops

There are many different types of countertops to keep in mind when it comes to cleaning. Fortunately, we have all the information for whichever type of countertop you may have. Whether it be a low maintenance material or a higher maintenance material, here’s tips on how to clean countertops:

Low Maintenance

These countertop materials are not only beautiful, but they are also easy to keep clean and maintain. The low maintenance materials include quartz, laminate, soap stone, recycled glass and stainless steel. With just some simple soap, water and a soft wash cloth, your countertops will be clean and looking as good as new.

High Maintenance

Butcher block, tile, marble and granite are all considered high maintenance materials. As beautiful as all of these countertops are, they are a bit of a hassle to keep up with.

Butcher Block

A butcher block should be cleaned daily with a nonabrasive cleaner and in order to scrape up excess food you need to use either a spatula or a metal pastry scraper. Once you’re finished cleaning, you need to immediately dry the butcher block thoroughly.

Tile

Tile is simple to clean; it just requires soap and water. However, the grout around the tile can collect food particles and be prone to staining. In order to clean it, you need to use a scouring powder and bleach, which should brighten it right up.

Marble and Granite

Marble and granite are a hassle because they can very easily scratch, stain or etch and acidic cleaners are too harsh to be used on these materials. However, as long as you stick to a nonabrasive dish soap, warm water, and a soft towel, your countertops should stay beautiful.

It’s always important to know how to clean countertops. No matter the type of countertop you have, when it’s maintained, it will give your kitchen an extra sparkle that’ll be desirable to all of those who walk into it. Although some countertops are more durable and more easily maintained, it’s still a good tip is to use nonabrasive materials on all countertop types to preserve them for as long as possible.