Want your countertops to last a lifetime? First and foremost, we highly recommend that you read and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on how to care for and maintain your countertops. Solid surface countertops may be very durable, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t treat it with care!
If you’re looking for some quick and easy tips to protect your countertops from damage and break those bad habits, keep on reading!
1. Protect your countertops against heat:
Do you start your morning routine by cooking dinner in your Crock-Pot so that when you come home from work it’s ready to eat? For 8 hours straight, while your marinated, pulled pork is cooking in that hot-pot on your solid surface countertop, you’re probably not thinking about the damage this may be causing to your countertops.
Well, we have news for you-direct exposure to heat can often lead to cracks or burns on solid surface countertops, and although solid surface countertops endure heat better than most surfaces, it can only do so to a certain degree. To protect your countertops against heat, keep in mind to always use trivets, particularly with legs, or pads under a heat-generating appliance. In the bathroom, place your curling iron or flat iron in a heat-proof pouch or on a stand. Steam irons should never be placed directly on countertops either.
2. Clean the surface with simple cleaners:
Get in the habit of cleaning your countertops regularly to keep your solid surface countertops looking fresh. If you spill something on your countertop, clean it up right away! Don’t allow liquid to sit there too long as it may cause discoloration and become difficult to remove later on.
To clean your countertop, we suggest the following: (1) a simple dishwashing detergent soap or ammonia-based cleaner, (2) water or (3) a little elbow grease. These should do the trick! If the stains are stubborn, use a Soft-Scrub pad in circular motions to remove dirt and grime. Stay away from window cleaners, as these tend to leave streaks or a waxy build-up on countertops.
3. Use a cutting board:
We all know how easy it is to cut directly on the countertop without thinking of the damages, but that’s why cutting boards exist! Using your cutting board instead of your countertops will extend the life of your countertops, prevent damages like scratches, nicks and gouges, and prevent dull appearances on the surfaces of your countertops.
These are just 3 of the most important tips. Feel free to contact SurfaceLink’s Care & Maintenance Referral Hotline at 1-800-482-1774 ext. 317 for additional information on countertop maintenance!