A Household Essential Will Bring Shine Back To Your Laminate Countertops

Although laminate countertops are cheaper than other materials, relatively easier to install, and simple to maintain, they can eventually lose their luster due to scratches, stains, and debris. While DIY projects like painting your laminate countertops could help you restore them to their former glory, polishing them is a simple, time-efficient, and cost-effective way of getting rid of the stubborn stains and dirt buildup. Spraying them with a vinegar solution will help you bring this inexpensive surface back to life.

However, before you polish with vinegar, it's important to clean the surface. The cleaning frequency will depend on the abuse your laminate countertops suffer. For instance, if you like to cook and, in the process, make a mess of the countertops, you might want to clean them daily to not only maintain their shine but also prevent bacteria from establishing their home base. On the other hand, if you only cook occasionally and your countertops don't witness much action, clean them once a week to keep them in good condition.

Before you polish the surface with vinegar, it's important to thoroughly clean it. The first step is to remove all your items from the countertop. Once done, don your cleaning gear, protective gloves, and goggles, then use a clean, dry sponge to remove food crumbs and debris. Next, blend 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 1 quart of warm water, apply with a microfiber cloth or a smooth sponge, and let it sit for 10 minutes before wiping it away to get rid of grease, stains, and dirt. If you encounter stubborn stains that won't budge, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with water to create a paste. Apply the paste directly onto the stain and let it sit for five minutes before wiping it away with a damp, microfiber cloth.

Once your countertop is spick and span, it's time to bring out the white distilled vinegar to get them to shine like new. All you need to do is mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar with 2 cups of cold water and transfer the solution to a spray bottle. Now, spray the solution directly onto the counter and let it sit for around five minutes before wiping it off with a clean cloth or sponge. Wipe the counter well to ensure there's no sticky residue left behind. This will also prevent your countertops from smelling like vinegar, though the scent shouldn't linger for long.