Laminate countertops remain all the rage among homeowners, but when used in the kitchen, the material is going to encounter inevitable stains. Here are two top ways to remove stains from counters.
Soak with Baking Soda
Create a mixture of baking soda and enough water to make a thick paste. Apply the paste to the stain and then lay a wet paper towel over the paste so that it stays moist. The paste works well for stains left by fruit juices and liquids. However, baking soda is mildly abrasive and will leave fine scratches on laminate in San Fernando Valley, CA when scrubbed. Leave the paste to work for an hour or two and then gently wipe off.
Use Solvents
Use a solvent such as nail polish remover on a wet rag to rub stains off kitchen laminate counters. Harsher solvents such as paint thinner, acetone, and denatured alcohol tend to work on the toughest stains such as ink and grease. However, the solvents are flammable and give off strong fumes, so only a small amount on a rag should be used. Most solvents will not harm laminate counters from website, but always test on an inconspicuous spot first.
Tip: Abrasives and Bleach
Avoid cleaning counters with abrasives such as scouring pads, scouring powder, or steel wool as they can remove stains but they also leave micro-scratches. As for bleach, it is a great stain remover; however, it tends to only work on certain types of material. Homeowners should always test bleach prior to using it. Again, wipe a small amount on an inconspicuous area and leave it to dry. Check the spot a while later for discoloration before using bleach on a stain.
Stubborn countertop stains can be frustrating, but do not need to be permanent. Standard household spray cleaners can remove most of them. Be sure to check the label to ensure the spray is recommended for the countertop material.
