Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Routine Care of Your Kitchen Countertop


Investing in a quality countertop and taking routine care can preserve the look and feel of the surface. 

Although there are materials that can withstand wear and tear from daily use, it can be easily damaged if durability doesn’t match closely with the aesthetic appeal. To avoid damaging your counter, consider these preventive steps so you can enjoy an attractive surface that looks fresh for years to come.


Keep it dry. Hard water marks can make the surface dull and the finish to appear blotchy and uneven. To prevent this, it is important to wipe the counter completely dry immediately after spills and cleaning.


Clean up spills. For most residues, all you need is warm soapy water or commercially available cleaners. Do not use strong chemicals and abrasive cleaning pads to clean the surface. Moreover, you can wipe the surface with diluted household bleach to disinfect the counter and sink. In order to safely remove food, gum, dried paint, or other adhered materials, scrape it off with a plastic putty knife at a 45 degree angle. Then use a damp cloth to remove any residual dirt.


Prevent heat damage. For most of the countertop, it is important to minimize direct heat exposure to protect the surface. Use coasters under hot drinks and heat trivets/pads when placing hot pots and pans on the counter. Always use a trivet under the oven toaster and other portable heat-generating appliances.


Prevent other damages. Use a cutting board when preparing food. You should also avoid sitting or standing on top of the counter as the added weight could be damaging.


Seal to increase durability. Natural stone is porous and may easily absorb food spills or hard water deposits. A sealer is recommended to keep stains from affecting the countertop. If you have a granite countertop, it must be sealed every six months or at least once a year. To find out if your sealant is effective, spill water on a small area. If the water starts to seep into the granite and made the surface appear darker, it’s time to reseal.
Repair damages. Sometimes accidents happen. For minor damages, you can purchase a repair kit and replacement that match the color of your countertop from a local home improvement store. Follow the instructions written in the manual. Be sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and mask while you work to avoid contact with the chemical. If home repairs are beyond your DIY prowess, consider calling a professional.


With proper care, your countertop can stay looking good as new. To know more tips for cleaning your countertop, click here.

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