Want to leam how you can remove those stubborn stains on your solid surface countertop? Solid surface countertops are made by pouring crushed stone and acrylic into a mold. They are also known as a synthetic stone. Because they are available in a huge variety of colors, they are a common choice among homeowners in Singapore for kitchen countertops.
They are a wise choice for a person who wants to go for strength and looks in a countertop. However, with all these benefits, there are a few disadvantages too. One such disadvantage is that solid surface countertops get stained easily, and the stain becomes quite visible on its clean and clear surface.
Solid surface countertops with stains in the kitchen are a deplorable and disagreeable sight. However, should you be plagued by such stains, there is no reason to fret. Solid surfaces are the easiest to clean.
The fact that they are not porous makes the stain remain on the surface instead of penetrating the countertop’s body to become permanent. Such countertops usually do not require special and expensive cleansing agents, and the cleaning material for such countertops is generally readily available in a household.
Here are few tips and tricks to get rid of stains on your solid surface countertop:
1. Know the Surface of Your Countertop
Solid countertops can be classified into three basic types, namely matte finish, semi-gloss, and high gloss, depending on their finish. Before you start cleaning the stains on the countertop, you must know the type of material your countertop surface is made of.
This will let you know the most appropriate cleaning agent for removing the stains. For glossy finish countertops, use mild soap solutions, while for the ones with a matte finish, abrasive cleaners and even baking soda are good options.
2. Use a Mild Soap Solution
Wet a cloth in a solution of mild soap or a non-ammonia based window cleaner. Wipe the stained surface with the cloth moving in a circular motion. Continue the circular wiping until the stain disappears. Rinse the area thoroughly and dry it out with a clean and dry cloth.
3. Use Special Cleansers
If the stain is tough enough to warrant the use of a special cleaner, use one. Difficult stains such as hard watermarks or food residue marks need a strong cleansing agent. Soak the stained area in an abrasive cleaner for about 10 minutes. Thereafter, use a scrubber or a sponge to rub the area in a circular motion carefully and then rinse thoroughly.
You must be careful in choosing the cleansing agent. Using a floor stripper cleaner or an oven cleaner is a strict No’. Such cleansing agents contain harsh chemicals that can reduce the sheen of your countertop. Be careful while also scrubbing since scrubbers may scratch the surface of the countertop if used excessively.
4. Disinfect Your Countertop
Once you have cleaned your countertop with either a soap solution or a special cleanser, it is time to disinfect it. Disinfect your countertop with a bleaching solution. Make a household bleach solution in an equal quantity of water and use a damp cloth to apply it to the stained area.
Bleach is also a powerful stain remover; hence it will remove leftover traces of the stain. Instead of using the damp cloth, you can also use disposable kitchen wipes to apply bleach. Subsequently, wipe the surface of the countertop with a clean cloth thoroughly.
5. Rinse Thoroughly
After every procedure, rinse your countertop with clean water and dry it completely. End the stain removal procedure by polishing off your countertop with a clean cloth. This will restore the normal luster and eliminate any hard watermarks that may have been left.
It is wise to follow the guidelines given by the countertop manufacturer and follow the recommendations. It is also important that you take care not to expose your countertop to harsh chemicals like lacquer thinner, drain cleaners, or paint removers. In case there is contact with these chemicals, flush the countertop with water immediately.
If you follow the above procedure in letter and spirit, you shall be able to remove stains from your solid surface countertop and make your countertop appear new as if it has never been touched.
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