The Best Way to Clean Kitchen Countertops: Quartz, Granite, Laminate, Butcher Block

Get the best way to clean kitchen countertops that is safe for any surface.

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The Best Way to Clean Kitchen Countertops

It should come as no surprise to you that kitchen countertops host all kinds of activities that welcome nasty germs, gunk, and grime. What’s worse is even though they look clean, they can still carry invisible bacteria like Salmonella and E coli- especially the surfaces near your sink or cooktop.

Kitchen countertops need frequent cleaning and disinfecting to properly get rid of dirt and kill bacteria. Depending how often you use your kitchen, you probably find yourself cleaning up those countertops at least once a day.

But here is what’s often overlooked: the type of cleaner we use DOES matter. First off, not all countertops are created equal. Harsh cleaning products can damage your kitchen countertop by discoloring, dulling, or breaking down the sealant from repeated use.

Second, many cleaners contain unnecessary, harmful ingredients that you probably don’t want coming in contact with your food. There are other methods right at your fingertips that are just as effective without increasing your exposure to toxic cleaners.

Here is a safe and natural way of cleaning and disinfecting EVERY type of kitchen countertop.

How to Clean Kitchen Countertops

Step 1: First, wipe all of the crumbs off of the counter using a dry washcloth or sponge. Getting rid of the loose crumbs will keep you from scratching the surface of your countertop while cleaning.

Step 2: Apply a few drops of dish soap to a warm, damp sponge or washcloth. I prefer to use (and highly recommend) Castile soap. It is a safe, multi-purpose cleaner made with organic oils and natural ingredients. So you don’t have to worry about otherwise toxic chemicals all over the place you prepare food.

Step 3: Using the soapy sponge or washcloth, scrub the countertop in a circular motion. The two-sided sponges with a non-scratch scrub pad are ideal. Especially when you need to tackle stubborn spots. You can find my favorite sponges for cheap / here /.

*Be sure to disinfect your sponge at least once a week by getting it damp and popping it in the microwave for 1 minute.

Step 4: Keep in mind that the soap only lifts the grime. Thoroughly rinse (and re-rinse) your sponge with hot water and wipe down the entire surface again. This will wash away the soap and gunk instead of just spreading it around.

How To Make Your Countertops Shine

Step 5: Finally, use a microfiber cloth to buff your countertops dry. Removing moisture is not only better for your countertop, but it also gives it a streak-free shine.

How to Disinfect Kitchen Countertops

ALCOHOL-BASED SOLUTION

-For stone surfaces like quartz, granite, marble or concrete countertops, create a simple disinfectant using

1/8 cup rubbing alcohol and
one cup water in a spray bottle.

-Spray the countertops down, making sure to cover the entire surface.

-Let the alcohol solution to sit for about 3 minutes so it has enough time to fully disinfect.

-Wipe up the solution with a warm cloth. Use a clean microfiber cloth to dry.

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VINEGAR-BASED SOLUTION

-For butcher block, laminate, or other countertops, disinfect with a natural vinegar solution.

Grab the recipe for Natural DIY Cleaning Spray.

-Spray the countertops down, making sure to cover the entire surface.

-Let the vinegar solution to sit for 2-3 minutes so it has enough time to fully disinfect.

-Wipe up the solution with a warm cloth. Use a clean microfiber cloth to dry.

Ways to Keep Your Counters Looking Good

Know your manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning products on your specific countertops.

Quartz is the most stain resistant countertop material. It is made of ground natural stone and resin that is non-porous. Quartz is the easiest to maintain- no sealer is required. It has the greatest resistance to cuts and scratches too.

Meanwhile, marble, limestone, and granite countertops need to be sealed because they are naturally porous. If they are not sealed, they are more likely to show aging from wear and tear. Be sure to reseal these countertops once every year. If you can see visible water spots on the stone even after drying the surface, it’s time to seal it again.

Be gentle on butcher-block countertops. They are beautiful, but highly susceptible to scratches and stains. They need to be resealed every 6 months.

Make sure to use cutting boards and hot pads to protect your countertops. Never use an abrasive scrubber. Knowing and taking care of your specific countertop will help your investment stand the test of time.

The Best Way to Clean Kitchen Countertops: Quartz, Granite, Laminate, Butcher Block