Today, kitchen counters come in a wide variety of materials and styles. For example, if your kitchen counter is wood, you might be uncertain about how to keep it clean. But, because you prepare food on your kitchen counters, it is essential to know how to clean them to remove all the germs and reduce the risk of spreading foodborne illnesses. Here, we offer tips on cleaning your kitchen counter properly—no matter what kind of counter it is.
First, Understand the Basics
There are some basic rules to follow when cleaning a kitchen counter, whether it’s made from wood, marble, or glass:
- Never place raw meat on your counter.
- Protect yourself when you handle hot dishes using an oven mitt or heating pad.
- Sweep away crumbs when preparing food, and wipe up any spills with a paper towel.
- Use cutting boards to protect your counters from damage.
These cleaning tips may seem unimportant, but they protect those surfaces from germs, bacteria, and unwanted damage.
Cleaning Butcher Blocks and Wood Counters
Butcher blocks or other types of wooden countertops need special cleaning care. They’re susceptible to staining if not treated with oil and sealants. Darker, acidic liquids like wine, juice, and water can stain wooden surfaces. Removing germs and stains, on the other hand, can be done through the following methods:
- Always rinse off soap thoroughly.
- Scrub in the direction of the wood grain.
- Keep the furniture dry, especially when preparing raw meat, chicken, or fish.
- Spread the mixture on a rag to apply it to the wood surface. Let the mixture sit for about fifteen minutes before wiping it away with a clean rag.
- To disinfect the furniture, mix white vinegar and water in equal parts if you prepare raw meat, chicken, or fish on it.
- To remove spots and grime, combine lemon juice and salt to make a paste. Apply the paste to the wood surface with a soft cloth, then wipe away with a clean towel.
- Use a soft plastic spatula to scrape off bits of food that are stuck on the wood.
- Use dish detergent and a sponge to scrub away any stubborn residue.
Cleaning Marble Counters
The belief that marble is the gold standard for kitchen counters is not entirely unfounded. Marble has a sleek, sophisticated look that’s borne out in the kitchen, where it provides the perfect backdrop for contemporary cooking. However, marble is delicate and hard to clean, so it can be challenging to keep looking good.
- Always keep a bottle of spray cleaner handy. Spritz the counter and wipe it with a cloth to remove stains without causing damage.
- Never use harsh cleaners or mixtures of vinegar and lemon juice on your marble countertops, as they cause damage.
- If you have stains like red wine, use baking powder instead. It is less abrasive than most other cleaning products and lasts longer.
- Leave the paste to soak for a day before wiping it away.
Cleaning Granite Counters
Granite is very similar to marble. However, unlike marble, it cannot be sanitized using rubbing alcohol. It is advised to seal granite after cleaning if you want to use it without a cover.
The Cleaning Conclusion and Solution
If all these tips are hard to remember, hiring a professional cleaning service in DC like Ecoverde Maids is best! We provide customers with excellent service and cleaning throughout Washington, DC. Book an appointment with us today at (202) 618-0562 or through our website!
