Light-coloured countertops require some special attention and care to ensure they always remain clean and pristine. Here are 5 amazing tips when it comes to light-coloured countertops and its maintenance.
Light-Coloured Countertops #1: Preventing Any Form Of Staining
First of all, light-coloured kitchen countertops have to be protected against stains in order to keep them beautiful and durable. First of all, spills should be cleaned up as soon as possible. More than likely, light countertops will show any stains from dark or acid liquids such as coffee, red wine, soy sauce and tomato-based products. In these accidents, immediate wiping will prevent the stains from setting in with the help of a damp cloth. The surface will be safely cleaned of all stubborn stains using a non-abrasive cleaner appropriate for your countertop type.
Using coasters and placemats under glass, mugs and bottles that tend to sweat or spill is another great way to avoid stains. This saves one from water rings and liquid damage on light-coloured surfaces. Hot pads or trivets also come under hot pots and pans for the purpose of saving the countertop from heat marks and possible discolouration. Secondly, cutting boards must always be used in food preparation since ingredients such as beets or berries can easily spill and leave marks that one may not be able to get rid of.
Sealing is key on porous surfaces such as marble, granite or quartz to prevent liquids from soaking into the material of the countertop and causing stains. Sealers create some type of barrier that makes liquids harder to seep through to the surface. Resealing porous countertops each year or as instructed by the manufacturer will keep them protected. Most of the engineered stones such as quartz, are nonporous —however, it is still important not to leave spills or acidic foods on the surface for a long period of time.
The treatment can prevent discolouration or any ugly stains. This means that your light-coloured kitchen countertops will still be looking vibrant and good-looking — increasing the lifetime of your kitchen space.
Light-Coloured Countertops #2: Conducting Daily Cleaning
Daily cleaning will keep the light-coloured kitchen countertops clean. A light-coloured countertop looks elegant but it reflects stains, spills and dirt more than its darker counterparts — its care is quite important. First, clean the countertop with a gentle cloth or sponge by using dish soap in warm water. This will remove dust, crumbs and minor spills without damaging the surface. In such a case, avoid the use of abrasive scrubbers, which might scratch or dull the finish. Also, always make use of a non-abrasive, pH-neutral cleaner, which is right for your quartz, marble, or granite countertop material.
Setting the habit of immediately wiping up spills is one of the most important habits to instil within oneself. Light-coloured countertops are easily stained by common substances one encounters such as coffee, wine and juices from citrus fruits. The sooner you deal with a spill, the less time it will have to set deep into the surface and leave a mark. Pay particular attention to acidic substances as these can etch natural stone surfaces over time.
And then there is the other trick — drying the countertop after cleaning so it does not streak or leave any water spots as these will be a bit more noticeable on lighter-coloured countertops. You can use a microfibre cloth for the purpose as it is soft and can provide a clean finish.
Finally, do not put hot pots, pans or dishes directly onto the countertop. This is because even materials resistant to heat are more prone to discolouration from heat with light-coloured surfaces. Always use trivets or hot pads. By implementing these easy daily cleaning habits, the beauty of your light-coloured countertops will last longer and continue looking fresh and clean.
Applying these precautionary measures will help you keep your light-coloured kitchen countertops vibrant, avoiding unsightly discolouration which in turn could make the kitchen more beautiful and longer-lasting.
Light-Coloured Countertops #3: Carrying Out Sealing Processes
Sealing remains an important step in light-coloured kitchen countertop care especially because it comes from materials that can be porous such as in the case of granite, marble or many others. Materials of these kinds are naturally porous — liquid and stains could pass through to the surface of these materials in case their surface protection is not provided. It acts as a barrier — reducing the porosity of the countertop and serving as protection from substances such as oils, wine, coffee or acidic foods from penetrating the stone. This is most necessary for light-coloured countertops that can easily and clearly show stains which may also be more difficult to get rid of.
For this protection to be kept intact, your countertops will need sealing from time to time depending on the material used and how frequently it faces use. Most countertops should be re-sealed every 1-2 years with areas of heavy use requiring more frequent sealing. To seal, clean the countertop with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner thoroughly and let it dry. Once dry, apply a certain amount of the sealant to the countertop with a soft cloth or sponge, covering the entire surface. Allow the sealant to sit on the surface for the determined amount of time and remove the excess with a clean cloth and buff to a smooth finish.
One of the benefits of sealing is increased durability and resistance to etching and staining. This means the countertop will preserve its look over time. Sealant does not make the surface invincible. You still have to wipe up spills immediately and you have to avoid placing hot items directly on it. By following the proper care and incorporating regular sealing, your light-coloured countertops will remain in a beautiful and clean plus they will be well-protected from daily wear and tear.
Light-Coloured Countertops #4: Being Gentle When Cleaning
Care for light-coloured kitchen countertops is also in the form of being gentle with them such as scrubbing them lightly — helps to keep them in good condition without causing them any damage. Notably, light countertops made from marble, quartz and granite usually change colour very fast — can be easily stained and proper cleaning is vital. It is forbidden during daily cleaning to use harsh chemicals or materials that may scratch the surface or strip the sealant on it. Instead, mild dish soap and warm water can be used with a soft cloth or sponge as routine care.
When there are deeper stains such as those from wine, coffee or grease, more concentrated action may be required. One of the most common solutions includes the baking soda and water paste. Baking soda is an element that will help raise the stains without scratching the countertop. Apply the paste to the soiled area then gently scrub using a soft-bristled brush or cloth in circular motions. Let it sit for several minutes. Then, clean with a damp cloth. Repeat if necessary until the stain is gone.
Besides baking soda, note that heavy scrubbing should be avoided since it may cause micro-scratches that accumulate over time and dull the surface. A very important issue after scrubbing is always to rinse the area so that no residue may be left behind to which dirt could be attracted. The frequency of gentle scrubbing and cleaning retains natural beauty and extends life. Be it marble, quartz or some other light surface, keeping up with a delicate cleaning routine keeps stains from setting in and your kitchen fresh.
Light-Coloured Countertops #5: Using Polish For More Shine
Light-coloured kitchen countertops need polishing to remain beautiful for a longer period to protect the surface. It is supposed to be done on a regular basis no matter if your countertop is made from quartz, marble, granite or any other material to avoid dullness and very minor scratches. Clean the countertop first with a soft cloth and mild dish soap in warm water. After cleaning and drying, apply a non-abrasive, pH-balanced countertop polish suitable for your countertop material. There are many polishes available specifically for quartz or natural stones that provide protection from stains and leave a beautiful sheen to highlight the natural surface.
To polish, rub a microfibre cloth or a clean soft pad in small circular motions onto the surface to ensure even application and enhance natural brilliance. Avoid the use of abrasive tools that may scratch the surface especially delicate materials such as marble. Moreover, polishing provides shine and protection against water rings, fingerprints and light scratches — something quite essential for the care of light-coloured countertops. Above all, avoid the use of acidic or abrasive cleaning products as that may destroy the polished finish.
When your countertop is made of porous materials such as granite, it is highly recommended that those be sealed before being polished to enhance its durability. Along with conscious cleaning and maintenance, polishing on a regular basis may preserve the immaculate condition and aesthetic appeal of light-coloured countertops for several years.
