Counter Tops

Care for specific types of counter top materials follows, but these general tips apply to all surfaces:

• Always used a cutting board. You may not notice minor scratches at first, but over time they will dull the luster of even a hard ceramic tile finish.
• Wipe up spills immediately. Some liquids, especially hot ones, will stain grout and plastic laminate.
• Set heavy objects down gently to avoid breaking or chipping counter tops.
• Sitting or standing on your counters can cause warping, drawer malfunction or even pull the top away from the wall. Invest in a good step ladder to use instead.

Plastic Laminate
Never place hot pans directly on a laminate surface. It can cause scorching and can break the bond between the laminate and its wooden base.

The inks on packaging, meats and produce will stain laminate and are very difficult to remove. Avoid placing these items directly on your counters.

Keep it shiny. Clean it with mild soap and water instead of harsh, abrasive cleansers. Then simply rinse and buff dry with a soft cloth.

The seams of your counter are treated with a fill, but water left standing will eventually penetrate the seam and cause buckling. Help prevent this by waxing the seams as part of your routine maintenance. Ask your hardware store or home center to recommend a proper wax.

Corian, Corinthian and Other Solid Surface Materials
Remove spills promptly and rinse the area with clear water to prevent staining.

Very hot pans or lighted cigarettes will char and burn solid surface countertops.

Small burns and gouges can be removed. Consult the manufacturer or a professional to learn the recommended technique for your counter material.

Granite and Marble
Treat these surfaces as you would fine furniture. Wipe up spills promptly, especially those that are acidic. Natural stones are alkaline and acidic liquids will disfigure them.

Avoid highly alkaline cleaners such as lye. Tars and oils can carry stains into stone when combined with such cleaners. To prevent scratches, avoid abrasive cleaners. Never use cleaning products, waxes or polishes that are colored or tinted. Soapless cleaners are recommended for routine cleaning. Rinse thoroughly. Any residue can cause permanent damage.

Use sealers that are formulated for granite and marble. Ask a professional stone cleaning service for more information. Make sure the surface is completely dry before applying any top dressing. A chamois is ideal for this purpose.

Cultured Marble
Warm water and a soft cloth or sponge will keep your cultured marble counter tops looking new. Wipe up spills quickly. The acid in most foods and liquids will etch the surface. Don't place anything that can scratch the surface directly on the counter top. If the surface should become dull, contact a professional who specializes in marble polishing.

Simulated Marble
Use soap and water to clean, rinse thoroughly and buff dry. Avoid paste waxes which can cause yellowing.

Ceramic Tile
Although it is durable, glazed ceramic tile can break. Finding an exact color or pattern match may be impossible. Save any unused tiles for future repairs, and always use a cutting board and trivets to prevent damage.

Wipe up spills promptly with soapy water or a commercial tile cleaner to prevent stains and keep your surface shiny bright.

The grout between tiles is porous. Periodic regrouting is necessary to prevent stubborn stains from setting in. Strong cleaners such as Lysol can stain grout. Special grout sealers and cleaners are available, but some sealers will change the grout color. Check the manufacturer's label before applying any grout sealer.