Stop Using Magic Erasers To Clean Glossy Countertops. Here's Why

Magic erasers often seem, as their name suggests, magical and capable of cleaning anything. There are, however, some places in your home you should avoid using a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. One such place is your glossy countertops. Over time the Magic Eraser's abrasiveness will sand away the counter's shine and leave you with a dull finish. 

Magic Erasers are made of fibers of melamine resin foam. These fibers basically act as sandpaper, making them perfect for scrubbing off stubborn stains or scuffs. This is also why Magic Erasers can damage glossy surfaces, from your shiny countertops, to high-gloss paint. While minor damage may be fixable, it may require a professional's help to give your counters their luster back once they've lost it. Therefore it's always best to clean your glossy counters carefully using non-abrasive products. While the best products to use may vary depending on what exactly your glossy counters are made of, Magic Erasers aren't the way to go if you want to keep that shiny finish. Counters with a glossy shine, whether they are made of granite, quartz, or even a plastic laminate like Formica, are often easier to clean than those with a more matte surface, so it's not just for aesthetic reasons that you should avoid dulling your counter's shine.

While there are specialty cleaners available for granite and quartz counters that you can use, in most situations, you don't need to use anything stronger than some dish soap, water, and a soft sponge or cloth for cleaning these countertops. The same goes for cleaning your laminate countertops. Using such gentle products will help extend the life of your laminate and other countertops. 

For stubborn stains that don't come off with just soap and water, you can try applying a paste of baking soda and water to your counter and letting it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off. This trick should work on laminate, granite, quartz, and many other countertop materials. Make sure you're still using a gentle, non-abrasive cloth or sponge to wipe it off. It's amazing how many uses baking soda has as a kitchen cleaner. Don't forget that some glossy countertops, like granite, also need to be resealed regularly to help them keep their luster and shine.