The daily hustle in the kitchen inevitably brings spills, scratches and the usual wear and tear. It can gradually impact the look and feel of your tabletop.
However, you can maintain the tabletop’s shine by cleaning spills immediately with a soft cloth and mild soap and avoiding harsh cleaners that can damage the surface.
Join us in this blog post as we discuss numerous techniques to keep them visually stunning, as the day you brought it home.
For A Lasting Kitchen Tabletop
Know The Material
First of all, identify the type of material your kitchen countertop is crafted from. This single step can save you from a lot of trouble down the line, as each surface has its own maintenance needs and dos and don’ts.
Granite and marble demand periodic sealing to guard against stains and keep their glossy finish, whereas wood countertops call for regular oiling and gentle cleaning. For tips on integrating durable and stylish materials, check out our guide on must-have features for a functional modular kitchen.
Laminate countertops, while resilient to stronger cleaning agents, are unfortunately prone to scratches, if not handled with care. So, what works perfectly well for one material might damage the other and vice versa.
The knowledge of kitchen tabletop materials empowers you to select the ideal care practices and products, ensuring you do not risk damaging the surface unintentionally.
Clean Regularly
The easiest way to preserve the look of your kitchen tabletop is regular cleaning. That said, there are some cleaning products which are not good for the surface.
It is better to stick to gentle, non-abrasive cleaners that get the job done without compromising your countertop’s quality.
Most tabletops, such as laminate, stainless steel and quartz, only require a solution of warm water and a little mild dish soap for regular upkeep.
Gently scrub the surface and do not forget to dry it off right away with a microfibre cloth to soak up any lingering moisture to prevent any streaks from forming.
Caring for wood tabletops is a breeze when you use a cleaner designed specifically for wood. If you prefer creating your own cleaning solution, you can mix vinegar and water.
Be sure to refrain from directly pouring water onto your kitchen countertop or soaking it excessively, as it causes damage.
So, always make sure to dry the wood surface completely after cleaning. Neutral pH cleaners are better suited for granite and marble.
Avoid Harsh Cleaners
Employing tough cleaners does not mean you get countertops with extra gleam. This is a very common misconception.
Over time, strong chemicals, abrasive cleaners and scrubbing pads can actually do more harm than good. They lead to scratches and dullness that ruin the polished look of your countertop.
Bleach is something you should avoid at all costs. They bring discolouration and weaken the surface. Well, certainly not the outcome you are after.
Likewise, acidic cleaners such as vinegar or lemon should be off your list. They may appear to be natural options but they can result in serious harm to marble countertops.
Additionally, be cautious with ammonia. It can be overly harsh for many materials including wood, granite, quartz and laminate.
Prevent Scratches And Scuffs
A polished tabletop can quickly lose its lustre when scratches start to appear. Despite your utmost efforts, normal kitchen activities like chopping, prepping and moving cookware can leave small scuffs.
With a few proactive steps, you can minimise this risk. A great habit you can cultivate for your kitchen’s longevity is using trivets or coasters when dealing with hot cookware.
Not only does this shield it from heat damage, but it also stops the base of your cookware from causing any scratches.
Also, lift kitchen items when you are moving them. Many people unknowingly drag things like dishes, cutlery or small appliances across their countertop, not realising that this can create fine scratches.
Regardless of how sturdy your countertop material is, chopping directly on it is a big no-no. A simple board can save you from costly repairs and ensure they remain in good condition.
A kitchen countertop protective cover also aids in damage control. The amazing part is that these covers are so sleek and transparent that you will hardly notice them. They do not interfere with your decor as well.
And, if scratches have made their way onto your kitchen tabletop, you need not worry. In many cases, those minor imperfections can be smoothed out. However, the ability to buff out scratches depends on the material.
Seal Your Surface
Regular sealing is essential to protect some materials from moisture, which can lead to permanent staining and degradation.
Applying a sealant forms a robust protective barrier and makes the surface easier to clean. But, let us clarify here that not all countertops need sealant because only natural stones benefit from it.
Non-porous materials like quartz do not require a sealing process because they come with an inherent seal that stops liquids and stains from seeping in.
But, stone and wood surfaces, in particular, need to be sealed to retain their appearance and durability. These natural materials are beautiful but porous, meaning they can absorb liquids.
To check whether your countertop needs resealing, try this simple water test. Drop a small amount of water on the surface.
If it beads up, your seal is doing its job. On the other hand, if the water is absorbed, it is an indication that it is time to reseal. Here, marble needs more frequent attention. Ideally, use a sealant every six months.
Granite countertops should be resealed roughly once a year. However, this may vary depending on the type of granite and how heavily the surface is used.
Adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines when applying sealant is a must. The instructions help you achieve the best possible results.
Polish For Extra Shine
A little polishing can breathe new life into your countertops and bring back that eye-catching showroom shine. Polishing products are available for many tabletop materials.
But, avoid using generic household polish on countertop materials like stone or laminate, as this can cause streaking or leave a residue.
Remember to take a moment to test it in a small, inconspicuous area. This precaution allows you to check for any potential adverse reactions.
So, there you have it, a handful of effortless strategies to guarantee that your kitchen tabletop stays as a practical and stylish centerpiece. And we, at Lakshmi Ceraamics wish you the best in your home decor journey!