Homemade Cleaners for Kitchen Countertops

If not properly cleaned, kitchen countertops can quickly become covered with germs and bacteria. They are also prone to stains from fruits, juices and other foods. Here are some tips for how to clean and disinfect your countertops to keep them sparkling and germ-free.

Laminate or Acrylic Countertops

After preparing food or just for general cleaning, mix 1 cup vinegar and 1 cup water. Spray down your countertops then wipe with a clean rag or sponge and allow to air dry. The vinegar leaves no residue and does not require rinsing.

For dried on food or sticky messes use a paste made from baking soda a lemon juice. Mix baking soda and lemon juice into a paste about the consistency of toothpaste and then apply it to the food or mess. Allow it to set for a few minutes to help soften the food and then gently scrub away with a damp, clean cloth. Follow by rinsing the countertop with clean water to remove any residue left behind from the baking soda.

Granite, Marble and Other Stone Countertops

Granite, marble and other stone countertops can be cleaned beautifully with isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) and water. Mix 1 part water with 1 part alcohol in a spray bottle and then spray it on the surface and wipe clean. The alcohol will help to disinfect the surface and will leave your countertops shiny and beautiful.

If you prefer you can use vodka in place of the rubbing alcohol. Do not use acidic cleaners like vinegar on stone countertops since they can etch the surface.

Tile Countertops

To clean tile countertops follow the instructions for cleaning granite, marble or stone countertops. To remove stains from grout try gently scrubbing the grout lines with a toothbrush and a paste made from baking soda and water.

Concrete Countertops

Concrete countertops are very durable, however they are coated with a sealer that could be damaged with the wrong kind of cleaner. Opt for a pH neutral cleaner on these countertops for the best results and to lessen any chance of damage. Try mixing 5 parts water with 1 part castile soap and then use a sponge or rag to clean the countertops. You can also clean them with equal parts isopropyl alcohol and water.

Butcher Block (Wood) Countertops

Butcher Block countertops are beautiful, but can easily become filled with germs and bacteria since wood is porous. Not only that, but they can also hold odors making your kitchen smell less-than-fresh.

You should clean a butcher block countertop after each use to keep messes from seeping into the surface of the wood. Use a couple of drops of castile soap on a wet sponge or rag to wipe down the countertop, then rinse with clean water.

To remove stains and odors cut a lemon in half and rub the cut edge over the surface of the countertop. Allow it to set for 10-15 minutes and then rinse clean with water and a sponge. For tough stains sprinkle kosher salt on the stain and then rub with a lemon.

If the stain has gone down into the wood and cannot be lifted you may need to sand it out. To do this, use a fine grit sandpaper and sand until the stain is gone. Then, reseal your countertop and protect the wood by rubbing mineral oil into the surface.