With everyone being safe at home during these drastic times. Lockdown sure has given birth to some home Master Chefs. However, learning new dishes comes with the downside of cleaning. For those who have white Kitchen Countertops these are susceptible to staining especially for those who have wood or melamine countertops. Removing stains does not mean you have to go out and buy expensive cleaning chemicals that would damage your counters. You can get them clean with a few common household items and a little elbow grease.
How to Clean Marble and Granite Countertops
What you need:
Cleaning:
Mix warm water and mild dish soap for everyday cleaning, polish with a microfiber towel to shine up the stone. Avoid abrasive or acidic cleaners, which can strip the sealer and etch the stone.
Stain Removal:
For stains on granite or marble countertops, clean with a paste of baking soda and water (for oil-based stains) or hydrogen peroxide (for water-based stains). Apply the paste to the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and tape down the edges. Let sit for a few days (or overnight at the very least), and then rinse off the paste. Repeat the process if the stain is not completely gone. Be sure to do a spot test first to ensure the method won’t affect the colour or finish of the stone.
Sealing:
These surfaces are popular for their low maintenance appeal, but they do need to be regularly resealed to protect them from stains. Reseal granite annually and marble 2x a year.
How to Clean Quartz or Engineered Stone Countertops
What you need:
Cleaning:
Like it’s natural stone counterparts, these countertops can be washed with mild soap and water.
Stain Removal:
Quartz countertops are largely stain-resistant, but if you do come across a stain use a glass cleaner and a nonabrasive sponge to clean the area.
Sealing:
Engineered stone countertops don’t need any resealing to stay in pristine condition
How to Clean Soapstone Countertops
What you need:
Cleaning:
This natural stone is nonporous, making it resistant to stains and scratches. Clean it with almost any multipurpose cleaner, as long as it’s not abrasive.
Stain Removal:
Most stains can be removed with a multipurpose cleaner. Scratches and tough stains can be removed with very fine sandpaper (do not use rougher than 80 grit). Apply mineral oil after sanding.
Sealing:
The look of the material will change over time, depending on whether you use mineral oil, which speeds up the oxidation process and makes the stone look darker. Some prefer the natural aged look and leave the stone to age. Mineral oil can help protect the counters from stains.
Switching to Natural or Engineered Stone Countertops is not only a more aesthetically pleasing but comes with more benefits for hygiene and functionality. Check out our website www.earth-stone.co.za for our various options, send us a mail and one of our consultants will be in touch.