Homes are becoming increasingly more sophisticated. New surfaces for countertops and appliances range from porcelain to ceramic, from stainless steel to cast iron. And when it comes to cleaning, one method might work for one and not work for another. So how do you know what to clean and how? The following is a listing of just some of the many new surfaces on the market and the best ways to get them clean without scratching or harming them.
STAINLESS STEEL
Long a choice for kitchen sinks, stainless steel has now become an extremely popular finish for everything from kitchen counters to refrigerators to stoves and ovens. It’s versatile and practical. However, over time, stainless steel can become dull-looking or lose its original luster.
How to clean: Water is stainless steel’s biggest drawback. Water can easily mar the beautiful finish. Make sure all water is wiped up immediately. Do avoid using scouring powders on stainless steel. For all-purpose cleaning, use plain dish detergent. To remove fingerprints from stainless, use a microfiber cloth. For extra stubborn stains or fingerprints, use a mild window cleaner with a microfiber cloth.
GRANITE
Tough, rugged, and extremely good looking, granite is a wonderful choice for kitchen counters and floors. It resists heat and scorching and is almost impossible to nick and scratch. Beautiful to look at, but sometimes tough to get sparkling again.
How to clean: Unfortunately, most regular cleaners leave a dull film, making those pristine counters and floors looking dull and dirty when you use a regular sponge and dish detergent to clean.
To restore the beautiful, glossy shine, be sure to use a clean microfiber cloth. These clean without using strong cleaners. Or, dampen the cloths if the counters are extra dirty. If you must use a cleaner, make up your own cleaner made up of ¼ cup of ammonia with ½ gallon of water (use an old clean milk jug to store the cleaner). Put this cleaner in a spray bottle and use to clean counters. For floors, use ½ cup ammonia to 1 gallon of water. Consider using a mop fitted with a microfiber cloth instead of the usual sponge.
CERAN & SMOOTH-TOP STOVES
These beautiful surfaces are wonderful to look at but do require some special treatment – especially with regard to the cleaners use.
How to clean: Wipe up spills with a damp cloth as soon as possible, especially if the spill is sugary. Use plastic scrapers to bring up any food particles. For cleaning, use a regular sponge and water to wipe the surface clean, follow up with a microfiber cloth to make the stove shine. For deep cleaning, use a clean specially formulated for glass tops. Never use scouring pads or cleansers as this will scratch the smooth surfaces.
MARBLE
This beautiful stone is being used more and more in a variety of ways from floors, to counters, to furnishings. It should be sealed with a stone sealer because it is very porous and prone to staining.
How to clean: Wipe marble with a damp cloth. Use regular dish detergent to clean, but use a very small amount. Oil and greasy stains can be difficult to clean. Sprinkle baby powder or cornmeal on the stain to absorb the grease. For stains, rub the area with a paste of baking soda. For especially stubborn stains, apply hydrogen peroxide. Polish marble with a soft, dry cloth.
SOLID SURFACE COUNTERS (such as CORIAN)
Beautiful and easy to care for, solid surface options are great choices for countertops. Few things harm these counters, making them a reliable choice for surfaces.
How to clean: Solid surfaces, such as Corian, can be damaged by heat, so do avoid placing hot pans on them. They can also be scratched make it important to avoid placing knives on the counter or cutting on countertops. Use warm water and dish detergents. Ammonia-based cleaners will also take care of stubborn dirt.
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Kathryn Weber is the publisher of the Everydayclean.com Calender -- the calendar that helps you end the power struggle with your house. Keeping a clean home is about knowing what to clean when. Virtually everything that needs to be cleaned is on this calendar in a year-round cleaning schedule that helps you keep your house clean easier and faster. Click here for more information.
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