Your kitchen counters are where you create the meals for your family, so you want them to be as safe as possible. You want to be sure they are bacteria free in order to keep your family safe from illness. Unfortunately, choosing the right cleaner can be difficult and many homeowners make the mistake of choosing the wrong cleaners for their counter types. One thing to keep in mind is what is the effect of oven cleaner on kitchen countertops.

The Effect of Oven Cleaner on Granite Countertops

What is the effect of oven cleaner on kitchen countertops made of granite? Using such harsh substances can lead to color damage that may be irreversible. This applies to all types of granite countertops, including polished surfaces. In addition, avoid using bleach, ammonia, scouring pads or other abrasive cleansers.

How to Clean Granite Countertops

Granite counters need only mild soap and warm water to keep them clean. You can also purchase countertop cleaning kits at local home goods stores that can keep the counters clean and shining as long as you follow the manufacturer’s directions on the package.

If your granite countertops develop rings, dark spots or oil stains, you may be able to remove them with baking soda and water. Create a poultice that has the thickness of dough and then place the mixture on the stain. Cover the paste with plastic wrap and allow it to sit for between 24 and 48 hours. If the baking soda process does not work, sprinkle cornstarch on the stain and cover it with plastic for a few hours. Although you can use dish soap to clean your counters, do not use any that contain citrus scents or extracts.

The Effect of Oven Cleaner on Quartz Countertops

If you want to know what is the effect of oven cleaner on kitchen countertops made of quartz, it is important to understand how quartz counters are made. Quartz countertops are engineered stone counters made of over 90 percent quartz combined with polymers and pigment. The polymers in the resin is lighter than the quartz which could lead to damage to the surface of the counter top as well as discoloration.

How to Clean Quartz Countertops

One tip for keeping quartz countertops clean is to wipe up any spills quickly using a mild soap and hot water. If a spill dries on your counter, use a glass sponge, which are sponges designed for non-stick cooking pans, and the same mild soap mixed with warm water. You can use mild degreasing products to clean up grease splatters and spills. After an art project, if you find marker stains, you can use a substance like Goo Gone to remove the stain. You can also find cleansers designed for quartz countertops at hardware stores to remove stubborn stains.

Natural stone countertops are low-maintenance and never need abrasive cleaners to keep them shining. Always avoid oven cleaner, scouring pads or other abrasive cleansers on your natural stone counters. For more information, contact us today to learn more about natural stone options.