Some of the most important elements of any kitchen, bathroom, and workplace are the worktops.
A great worktop provides more than just a surface. They catch the eye, are used a lot, and need to be in good shape or else the whole aesthetic of the room can suffer.
Maintaining the beauty and durability of these worktops goes beyond a simple wipe-down.
Different materials such as Corian, wood, and laminate demand unique care to ensure they last for many years while still looking as pristine as the day they were installed.
Here at Solid Surfacing Company, we have installed worktops in many different environments, from residential properties to commercial settings such as cinemas and offices.
In this guide, our experienced team have decided to let you know the best tips and tricks for ensuring your worktop is always in the best condition it can be.
Let’s take a look.
Let’s start with why this is so important.
Regular maintenance and repairs to your worktop provide many benefits, including:
Regardless of the material used for the worktop (more on these later), there are some universal tips for worktop maintenance that should be adhered to in every domestic and commercial environment.
If your worktop is used frequently, or in a high-traffic area, then it should be cleaned once a day.
A simple mix of mild detergent and water is effective for daily cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the worktop surface.
By giving it a wipe down, you are removing any debris and ensuring your worktop is always in the best condition it can be.
Spillages are unavoidable, especially when in kitchens.
To prevent stains, wipe up spills as soon as they occur, especially on porous materials.
This will stop the spilt material from soaking into your worktop and avoid long-lasting stains that take more than a wipe to remove.
When cooking in the kitchen, it can be easy to try and cut corners by not going for the chopping board, or quickly placing a hot pan on the side.
This can cause real issues for your worktop though.
Use mats and boards for hot pots and pans to avoid any burns to your worktop and cutting boards should always be used to prevent scratches and marks (and also make a great item for placing a hot pan on as well).
Here at Solid Surfacing Company, we work with a wide range of materials when we design and install bespoke worktops throughout the UK.
For the next section, we’re going to delve into some of our most popular worktop choices, and let you know a few maintenance tips specific to each one.
Let’s take a look.
Corian, a brand name amongst many for solid surface material, is known for its durability and seamless appearance.
It's non-porous, making it resistant to stains, and can be repaired if scratched or damaged.
To clean a Corian worktop, use soapy water or an ammonia-based cleaner. For tough stains, apply a mild abrasive cleaner with a soft cloth such as a micro-fibre cloth. For stains that have been hanging around for a while and for high potency stains such as turmeric or chilli paste, the trick is to leave a cream cleaner such as Cif on the area for around ten minutes. This should lift the stain right off. Then, with your microfibre cloth, clean and wipe in circular motions and rinse off with water to maintain the shine on your worktop and prevent any permanent abrasion marks.
The number one on the ‘don’t’ list, is using a scouring pad such as brillo, or anything too hard and wiry, because these can potentially create a dull area/ scuff in your worktop which can be noticeable in direct light.
Small scratches can be buffed out using a mild abrasive pad but always seek the advice of experts (such as Solid surfacing Company) before attempting anything. For deeper scratches, cracks or chips, a repair may need to be carried out by a fabricator. Contact us for a free, no obligation quote.
Wood brings warmth and natural beauty to any space but requires more maintenance than other materials.
It's prone to scratches, stains, and water damage if not properly sealed and cared for. This puts many off purchasing and installing wood, but it can last a lifetime if cared for in the right way.
Your best bet is to apply a food-safe sealant to protect against water and stains. Reapply as recommended by the manufacturer or installation team. Here at solid surfacing company, we manufacture wooden worktops regularly and install them here in Kidderminster where we are based, but also all over the country. We use danish oil and apply two coats in our factory before on site installation. We then recommend a re-oil which can be done by anybody, 3-4 times for the first year, and then 1-2 times per year thereafter. These are rough guidelines but our clients know that if they need any advice along the way, they can contact us at any point for guidance.
For stains and scratches, gently sand the affected area and reapply sealant or oil. Professional sanding is advised (or at least consultation with a joiner or fabricator before trying at home!).
Regular oiling helps maintain the wood's natural beauty and water resistance as discussed above. The frequency that this needs to be done depends on usage and exposure to water. The above advice is based on average usage.
Laminate worktops offer a cost-effective and versatile option, available in various patterns and colours.
While durable and easy to clean, they can be susceptible to scratches, heat damage, and peeling.
When it comes to cleaning up stains, a mild detergent or a laminate-specific cleaner is best. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the surface.
Prevent peeling by avoiding exposure to excessive moisture and heat. If peeling occurs, contact a professional for repair options.
So, now you know how to keep your worktops in pristine condition, how can you ensure they stay that way for the long term?
Well, as mentioned earlier, using equipment such as cutting boards and mats can help to provide a protective layer for your worktop. Avoiding cuts or burns is the best way to maintain your worktop, so make sure you’re always prepared with somewhere to place your excessively hot items.
Remember, hot pots should never be placed directly on the worktop, especially if it's laminate or wood.
You should also always use the best cleaning tools that are available. Soft cloths or sponges are best. Avoid abrasive pads that can dull or scratch the surface.
Not all maintenance can be handled at home, especially when it comes to deep scratches, stains, or structural damage.
Professional maintenance can rejuvenate worktops, repair damage, and extend their lifespan.
It's generally recommended to seek professional help for:
While DIY maintenance can be effective for daily care and minor repairs, professional help is invaluable for more complex issues.
Professionals, such as the team at Solid Surfacing Company, have the tools, products, and expertise to ensure repairs are done correctly, especially for materials like Corian and wood that might require special treatments or tools.
Regular maintenance tailored to your worktop material can keep your kitchen, bathroom, or workplace looking great for years.
From simple daily cleaning to more intensive care like oiling and sealing, each step you take preserves the functionality and beauty of these essential home surfaces.
Set a schedule based on your worktop material, and don't hesitate to seek professional advice for those tasks that require a skilled hand.
And of course, if you feel like your current worktop is past its best, or simply want to spruce up your style with something new and exciting, then our team are here to help.
We work with you to design and install bespoke worktops that can enhance the ambience and aesthetics of your property.
Get in touch today to find out more.
