Epoxy countertops are moisture-resistant, flame resistant, and chemical resistant, making them easy to maintain. Although these countertops are durable, there are certain things you must know to be able to properly clean and maintain these surfaces. With proper care and cleaning, your epoxy countertops will look beautiful for many years to come.
Cleaning countertops is a requirement. If you want to lengthen the life of your countertops and reduce germs then you must clean your epoxy countertops. Below is a step-by-step guide to cleaning epoxy countertops.
Step 1: Wipe all dirt and debris away using a paper towel.
Step 2: Use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe your epoxy countertops with dish soap.
Step 3: Use a clean dry microfiber cloth to wipe your epoxy countertops dry.
Other tips for cleaning epoxy countertops:
First, you must never use any abrasive products on epoxy countertops. Cleaners like Comet, Bar Keepers Friend, or Soft Scrub should never be used. Also, you should never use scouring pads on your countertops. Any type of abrasive product can scratch and dull the surface of your countertops.
Another product you should avoid is any polish or wax that contains wax. Although these products seem like they would make your countertops shine, they actually do just the opposite. Using any products that contain wax will make the surface of your countertops look dull.
There are a number of products that can be used to clean epoxy countertops. Mild dish detergent, window cleaner, or a non-abrasive cleaner can be used on your epoxy countertops. Any type of cloth can be used; however, we recommend using either chamois or microfiber cleaning cloths for your epoxy countertops.
Epoxy countertops can stain easily; therefore, one of the most important things to do to keep your epoxy countertops looking great is to wipe up spills immediately with either a paper towel or a dishcloth.
You must clean your epoxy countertops daily to keep them looking great. Use pH-balanced dish soap or a streak-free window cleaner for best results.
If you will be using pH-balanced dish soap, apply a couple of drops to your cloth and then dip the cloth in warm water. Squeeze the excess water out, and then wipe down the countertop. Rinse the cloth very well to remove soap and then wipe the countertop down again, removing all soap. Buff the countertop dry using a soft cloth.
If you will be using a streak-free window cleaner, spray a soft cloth rather than spraying the countertop. This method helps control the amount of cleaner applied to the countertop. Wipe the countertop with the cleaner. This method should not be used on kitchen countertops. Instead, use the method described above.
If your epoxy countertop has lost some of its luster, mineral oil can help to restore the shine. If polishing your kitchen epoxy countertops, make sure to use food-safe mineral oil.
Pour a small amount of mineral oil (approximately a dime-sized amount) on a soft cloth. Buff the countertop using a circular motion until the evenly distributed. If needed, wipe excess oil away with a clean, dry cloth.
Spills should be cleaned up immediately. Soak any liquid up with a paper towel immediately. To prevent stains, reach for the baking soda.
Make a paste by mixing ½ cup of baking soda with approximately two tablespoons of water. Apply the paste directly to the stain and allow it to sit on the countertop for 5 minutes. Then, use a warm washcloth to wipe off the baking soda.
Once all the baking soda paste has been removed, wipe the countertop with a clean, damp cloth. Finally, buff dry using a soft, dry cloth using a circular motion.
If you have food stains from berries, coffee, or red wine, a little acetone-based nail polish remover can help. Dip the corner of a white rag into the nail polish remover and wipe the stain in a circular motion. If the stain is not budging, try applying a little more pressure.
Remember nail polish may remove fabric dyes, resulting in further staining of the countertop. Do not use bleach on stains as it can damage and stain the epoxy countertop.
Marring is defined as any light scratches or rough patches on an epoxy countertop. If your epoxy countertop has light scratches, you can remove the marring with some elbow grease. Apply dish detergent to a washcloth and rub in a circular motion with steady pressure.
If this does not remove the marring, you can apply some acetone to a sponge and use light pressure to remove the scuffs and scratches. Remember, you should never use any type of abrasive products or scrubbers as these can dull the shine of your countertop.
There are several things you can do to keep your epoxy countertops looking great. The most important thing you can do is clean your countertops daily, whether you use them or not. This will prevent dust and grime from building up and may even cause marring.
Always use a cutting board. You should never cut directly on epoxy countertops. When choosing a countertop, make sure you choose one that has some slip-resistant coating on the back.
Never allow your countertops to air dry. Air drying can leave unsightly watermarks. To ensure your countertops look great, wipe them down with a damp cloth and then buff dry with a chamois or microfiber cloth.
Epoxy countertops are beautiful; however, you must know how to properly care for and clean them to keep them looking great. Proper cleaning techniques will ensure your epoxy countertops last a long time and stay looking great.
