How to clean Formica Countertops

Posted by Deepak Kumar on June 26th, 2017

Formica laminates are easy to maintain. However, deeper cleaning is required time to time. Here is a guide to know about special finishes, different materials and laminate countertop.

Ordinary Cleaning

Formica laminates are easy to clean:

• For many laminate sheets you only need to use a clean, damp, non-abrasive cotton cloth and a mild liquid detergent or a simple household cleaner.

• Rinse the laminate sheets with water with a clean cotton cloth.

• Try not to use too much water ar seams because it can penetrate and cause the substrate to swell

• When done, dry the surface with a soft, clean cotton cloth.

For specific type of laminate sheets, follow the mentioned tips:

• Matte Finish Laminates: The areas which was very hard to clean should be given special attention. Use a nylon bristled hand or vegetable brush, and a mild liquid detergent and water solution. Clean the soiled area with a rotating motion. Rinse and dry the surface.

• High Gloss Finish Laminates: If some residual streaks are left after cleaning, then use a mild glass cleaner or a normal household cleaner and dry it with a clean, cotton cloth. Do not to use an exterior glass cleaner.

• Sculpture and Dimensional Finish Laminates: The depressed areas require special attention. Clean in a rotating motion with a nylon bristled hand or vegetable brush and a mild liquid detergent. Rinse and dry carefully.

Abrasives

Abrasive pads, cleaners can permanently dull the laminate sheets and scratch the laminate surface making it susceptible to staining. Ceramics, unglazed materials and other abrasive objects can cause scratching.

Chemical Damage

Never use cleaners that contain acid, sodium hypochlorite or alkali as they can easily corrode and permanently discolour the laminate sheets. The bottles, rags and other materials contaminated with such cleaners should not come in contact with the laminate sheets. Accidentals spill should be wiped off immediately.