How to Clean a Worktop: A Guide to Different Surfaces

Anyone who has shopped for kitchen worktops knows there are many options and many different surfaces. From various types of stone to wood, stainless steel, and synthetics, kitchen worktops come in a lot of forms. Even in a single kitchen, you can have a wide range of materials that need cleaning.

The key is knowing how to clean a worktop according to the surface type so you can preserve its integrity. That means knowing which approach and which cleaning substances are best for each type of worktop material. This brief guide will help you find the right way to clean your kitchen surfaces properly to have them looking great and lasting a long time.

Granite Worktops

For how sturdy granite might seem, granite worktops are sensitive to abrasive chemicals. They can strip the sealant and scratch the stone. For everyday cleaning, a simple mixture of dish soap and warm water will do the trick. Use a microfiber cloth to give it a nice shine. For heavier cleaning and stain removal, a little baking soda and water can help. Be sure to avoid acidic substances like lemon.

Quartz Worktops

Cleaning a quartz worktop is similar to granite. Use some soapy water and a soft cloth. You can use a gentle antibacterial detergent specifically made for substances like quartz for more difficult stains.

Marble Worktops

Soapy water will also work for marble worktops. It’s one of the easier surfaces to clean, so that should be all you will need. Be careful to never use acidic cleaner on marble.

Wooden Worktops

Warm soapy water can work for wooden worktops as well. For deeper cleaning, you can opt for stronger cleaners like vinegar, weak bleach, or other non-abrasive cleaners, but be careful not to bleach the color out of the wood.

Laminate Worktops

You have more options for cleaning a laminate worktop. You can use soapy water, antibacterial cleaner, vinegar, or laminate polish. Be sure to fully dry your laminate worktop to avoid water damage.

Stainless Steel Worktops

Another of the easiest surfaces to clean, all you should need with stainless steel is soapy water and a soft cloth. You will likely need to go over it again with a dry cloth to get streaks and fingerprints off the surface. You can also use oil, like a drop of baby oil, to give it a nice shine once it’s clean.

Soapstone Worktops

This non-porous surface is relatively easy to clean. In addition to soapy water, you can use multipurpose cleaners as long as they are non-abrasive.

Knowing how to clean a worktop depends on the type of surface. For most daily care, water and dish soap will work for most. As a general rule, avoid acidic cleaners and abrasive cleaners. These can discolor and damage a lot of surfaces and lead to unsightly scratches that will be difficult to remove.

If you are looking for a new worktop for your kitchen, contact us to learn more. We can tell you more about the pros and cons of each type of surface and help you find the right one for your home. Get a free quote today!