Laminate Countertop Care

Regular Cleaning:

In most cases, all that is required to maintain the original appearance of your laminate counter tops is wiping it with a damp, non-abrasive cotton cloth and a mild liquid detergent or household cleaner. Simply rinse with clean water, using a clean, non-abrasive cotton cloth. Do not flood the laminate, especially near the seams, since the water can penetrate and cause the substrate to swell. For persistent stains, however, the cleaning methods listed below are recommended. Start with the first method if the stain persists. It is important that after each cleaning step, the surface of the laminate is rinsed with warm water and wiped with a dry cloth. This step prevents the buildup of cleaning agent on the laminate surface. Residual cleaning agent can be reactivated with moisture from a wet plate or cup. If this reactivated cleaning agent remains on the surface of the laminate it can damage the counter top surface.

If the Stain Persists:

Use a damp cloth and a full-strength, all-purpose cleaner. Rinse the laminate surface with warm water and wipe with a dry cloth to remove any residue.

For Tougher Stains:

Such as coffee, tea, or fruit juice, use a paste of baking soda and water. Apply this paste with a soft bristle brush and scrub gently in a circular motion for 10-20 cycles. (Caution: excessive scrubbing can dull or damage the surface of the laminate making it more prone to future stains.) Rinse the laminate surface with warm water and wipe with a clean, dry cloth to remove any cleaner residue.

Extremely Stubborn Stains:

May be removed with bleach or acetone (ie: nail polish remover). For safety reasons, rubber gloves should be worn when handling these liquids. Apply the bleach or acetone to the stain and let sit for no longer than 1 1/2 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water and wipe dry with a clean cloth. (Caution: Prolonged exposure of the laminate surface to bleach will cause discolouration.) If this method appears to be removing the stain but not affecting the colour of the laminate, repeat this step until the stain is removed, then rinse the laminate surface with warm water and wipe with a clean, dry cloth to remove any residue.

Many commercially available products contain substances that may cause damage or discolour the laminating surface. Abrasive pads or scouring powder should not be used on laminate countertops as they can scratch or dull the surface making it more susceptible to staining. Harsh chemical cleaners such as: toilet bowl cleaners, oven cleaners, drain cleaners, coffee pot cleaners, hydrogen peroxide and rust removers should be avoided.

Sharp Objects:

Although the surface of laminate countertops is very durable, sharp objects can cause damage. Remember to always use a cutting board or counter saver when cutting or chopping food or other items. Scratches on the surface of the laminate cannot be repaired.

Hot Objects:

Objects removed directly from the oven or stove should never be placed directly on the laminate surface. Always use an insulated pad or trivet between the hot object and the counter top. Raise all free standing stoves to be higher than the counter top edge.

Impact and Scratches:

The impact of heavy objects such as food cans or dinnerware may cause chipping or cracking of the surface. Additionally, the repeated action of sliding heavy ceramic or other abrasive objects across the laminate surface may cause scratching and premature wear.