Maintenance and cleaning of artificial stone countertops
Artificial stone countertops have progressively become a popular alternative for kitchens, baths and other areas as current home décor trends vary and their gorgeous, durable and easy-to-maintain characteristics appeal. With its strong colours and robust construction, artificial stone has become a major component in home décor as it can satisfy several decorative purposes. But as time passes, different stains will surely assault artificial stone countertops.
Particularly for kitchen counters, which are constantly exposed to oil stains, sauces, coffee, etc. for a long period of time and, if not cleaned in time, penetrating stains may compromise the worktops’ attractiveness and service lifetime. Thus, many families now concentrate on how best to clean artificial stone countertops, particularly in order to address issues of deep stains. From regular cleaning to the treatment of penetrating stains and maintenance advice, this article will go into great length on how to maintain imitation stone worktops clean and attractive.
Daily cleaning techniques for worktops made of artificial stone
Employ gentle cleaners
Artificial stone countertops are robust, but their surfaces are still somewhat delicate, therefore you need use an appropriate detergent for cleaning. Strong chemical cleansers might scratch the countertop’s smooth surface or fade colours, therefore damaging it. Foru advises so to use a light neutral cleanser, like a particular stone cleaner or mild dishwashing liquid. Once running, dilute the cleanser and softly clean the surface with a soft cloth or sponge. Steer clear of metal cleaning balls or harsh brushes to avoid surface damage. Simultaneously, wipe it clean with fresh water in time after cleaning to guarantee total removal of the cleaner, thereby stopping leftover chemical components from further erasing the countertop.
Regular washing
Artificial stone countertops must be kept clean to prevent long-term stain and dust collection by frequent cleaning. To clean regularly, just wash the countertop with a moist cloth to get small stains and floating dust gone. Once a week, give the countertop a thorough clean using a soft cloth and a light detergent to guarantee that there are no last traces of oil or stains. Deep cleaning not only maintains the countertop’s brightness but also helps to avoid stain collection, therefore extending the artificial stone countertop’s lifetime of newness.
Avoid high temperatures and heavy objects
While artificial stone countertops are somewhat robust, their tolerance to heavy things and extreme temperatures is still restricted. Direct hot pot or hot plate placement on the countertop could create burn marks or deformation of the surface. Foru advises therefore utilising heat insulation mats while using kitchen equipment or setting hot pots. Besides, stay away from piling bulky items on the countertop. Long-term strong pressure might cause the countertop to distort or possibly break, therefore influencing the service life.
Clean stains in time
Long-term neglect of the stains on the artificial stone countertop can allow them to seep into the stone and create difficult-to-remove deep stains. Particularly certain vibrant and quickly permeable liquids, including coffee, red wine, soy sauce, etc., should be wiped clean with a moist cloth right away to stop penetration. Preventive cleaning is crucial whenever porous stains develop because even experts find it challenging to totally remove them. It is advised to wipe the countertop right after stains are discovered during usage to avoid permeable stains affecting it.
2. Advice on removing tough stains from artificial stone countertops
Prepare a paste with water and baking soda.
Common home cleanser baking soda is a great alternative for cleaning imitation stone countertops because of its gentle alkaline nature. To create a paste for somewhat penetrating stains, mix baking soda with a little bit of water. After applying the paste to the soiled area, let it remain for 15 to 20 minutes, then softly clean it with a moist towel. Baking soda’s finely grained structure allows stains to be softly removed without harming the synthetic stone surface. Frequent use of this technique will help to efficiently avoid stain collection while preserving countertop finish.
Use a paste made of hydrogen peroxide and flour
Often employed in sterilising and bleaching, hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidant. Using hydrogen peroxide and flour together can help imitation stone counters to be cleaned from tough penetrating stains. To create a paste, mix hydrogen peroxide and flour; apply it to the stain; cover it with plastic wrap and let it rest for several hours. Whereas grain serves as an absorbent, hydrogen peroxide may enter the stone and oxidise and break down the stains. Cleaning; then, use a moist towel to remove any residue. For very deep stains, this approach is appropriate; it will also help the countertop to regain its former gloss without destroying it.
Use professional stone cleaners
Professional stone cleaners might be the best way to get certain tough and deep stains out. On the market are cleaning supplies especially for imitation stone worktops. Special active components in these cleansers allow them to break down stains by penetrating far into the stone. To prevent misuse or long-term retention and thereby minimise needless damage to the countertop, you must rigorously observe the product directions while used. After verifying that there are no negative effects on the countertop, you may test the effect in a discreet region first and then apply it on a sizable portion.
Combining white vinegar with water
A natural acidic cleanser, white vinegar also works well in eliminating deep stains. Spray the stain with white vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio; let it stand for a few minutes; then, clean it with a moist towel. Some organic stains may be broken down by the acidic elements of white vinegar, which also assist to eliminate soap residue and scale.
Although white vinegar has a great cleaning impact on stains, it should be mentioned that owing to its high acidity it is not appropriate for long-term contact with artificial stone countertops to prevent deterioration of the surface. To guarantee that there is no remaining acid on the surface of the countertop, it is advised to so carefully wash it with clean water after cleaning with white vinegar.
3. Recommendations for artificial stone countertop maintenance
Waxing on a frequent basis
Though the surface of artificial stone countertops is smooth, with time the sheen of their surface could fade. Waxing the countertops every few months is advised to maintain their brightness as fresh. Waxing not only improves the countertop’s sheen but also creates a protective coating on the surface to lessen stain adhesiveness. Select particular wax appropriate for imitation stone and steer clear of goods that would leave greasy residue or sensation. Wax should be applied evenly and wiped with a dry cloth until the surface glows.
Steer clear of both alkaline and acidic cleansers.
Artificial stone countertops should be cleaned with particular care avoiding using strong acidic or alkaline chemicals. These cleansers may ruin the countertop’s structure, therefore discolouring the surface and losing its sheen. Artificial stone surfaces may not be suited for even cleansers used to clean tiles or other stones. For everyday cleaning, it is advised to so use a mild neutral cleanser or a specific stone cleaner. You might want to think about employing a specific cleaning solution for sporadic tough stains; be very cautious when working to prevent extended contact.
Use sponge and gentle cloth
Try to wipe the artificial stone countertop with a gentle cloth or sponge to prevent scratching it. Soft towels and sponges may softly remove stains more gently than harsh brushes or cleaning balls, therefore sparing damage to the tabletop. If cleaning oil stains or tough stains, first soak a soft cloth or sponge in warm water, then carefully wipe the affected area, and, if needed, add a light detergent. This guarantees the cleaning power as well as efficient surface smoothness protection for the countertop.
Steer clear of extended liquids contact
Although artificial stone countertops have some waterproof qualities, prolonged contact with liquids might still cause penetration and discolouration. Particularly in areas with many water sources, like kitchens, it is advised to remove the water stains on the countertop in time after use to stop liquids from lingering for a long period. Furthermore avoided as much as possible from direct contact with the countertop should be acidic or alkaline substances, including vinegar, lemon juice, chemical cleansers, etc. Should unintentional splashing, rinse with fresh water and wipe promptly to minimise tabletop damage.
Foru said
Important procedures to preserve the attractiveness of the house and prolong the service life of imitation stone worktops are maintenance and cleaning of them. Artificial stone worktops may be maintained bright and fresh for a long period by learning daily cleaning techniques, quick treatment of deep stains, and sensible maintenance policies. Particularly in cases of tough stains, it is important to choose suitable techniques and detergues that would efficiently remove stains without compromising the countertop’s texture. Artificial stone countertops may not only demonstrate their great performance in everyday usage but also become a focus in home decorating by means of scientific cleaning and maintenance, thus providing more comfort and beauty to the living surroundings.
