Countertops

Not sure how to clean your countertops?  Here are some tips and what's the difference between them.

Granite:
Since it's natural material it is porous, it could also have different levels of porosity. This means that over time the surface tends to 'open' and any spills might go under which will make the stain impossible to remove.
- Clean up spills immediately before they penetrate the surface.
- Clean your countertops often to avoid stains with a non-toxic granite cleaner or mild dish liquid detergent and warm water.
- Use a soft microfiber cloth or soft sponge (don't use the scrub side of your sponge) and dry with a clean towel.
- Seal your countertops once or twice a year with a non-toxic granite sealer.  You can find them at your local hardware store, Bed-Bath and Beyond, Gracious Home, etc.

Image via Pinterest



Quartz (Caesar Stone):
It's a very durable material. It is a non-porous so it's easy to clean and maintain.
- Wipe with damp soft cloth or paper towel.
- For tougher stains such as red wine, clean with non abrasive cleaner and non-scratch sponge
- Nail polish can be easily removed with nail polish remover
- Since it's a non-porous surface you don't need to seal it or wax it.
- Don't sit a hot pot directly on the counter.  Also, a cutting board is recommended to avoid  knife scratches.
Bonus:  Bacteria have a harder time taking hold in quartz counters than any other countertop materials.
 
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Wood countertop:
An unconventional material for a countertop is wood.  Most think that is not very practical because it tends to absorb water and it might be hard to maintain. However if you clean them on a regular (hopefully daily) basis you shouldn't have to worry.
- Wipe liquids spills as soon as possible to avoid it penetrates the surface.
- Scrape any dried particles with a spatula.
- Clean with warm water and mild dish soap.
- Do not spray any cleaner directly on the surface and never use cleaner with bleach.
- Dry your wood countertop with dry towel.
- Do not put hot pots directly on countertop.
- The use of a cutting board is recommended to avoid scratches and cuts.
- Once in a while polish with mineral oil and a clean soft cloth.  Leave it for about 30 min and wipe off any excess with a clean paper towel.



Image via BHG


Do you have some ideas about how to clean and maintain your countertops?  Share your ideas with us, would love to hear from you!

Best,
Marcela