4 Things You Shouldn’t Do to Preserve Your Countertops.

Your countertops are perhaps the most essential work surface in your kitchen. Considering this, you put a lot of time and effort into selecting the best material for them. You also think hard about their finish as they can significantly influence your interior’s look. Once they are installed in your home, you see to it that they are clean and free from any stain or blemish. 

You may be extremely cautious when it comes to using and maintaining your countertops. However, you may have particular habits that are actually damaging them without you knowing it. 

Check the list below for the top things you must not do to your surfaces—see if you are committing any of these!

1. DON’T: Place Heavy Objects Near Edges or Joints 

Countertops are made to be durable. However, this doesn’t mean that you can get away with placing your heavy microwave near unsupported joints or standing on the edge to reach an overhead shelf. 

These surfaces, just like other structures in your kitchen, can crack and break down under extreme pressure. In the worst cases, they may suffer damages that entail costly repairs.

Protect your countertops by refraining from loading it with weighty appliances and kitchen supplies. 

2. DON’T: Use Harsh Cleaning Supplies 

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to ensure that your surfaces are germ-free. However, it’s best to refrain from using cleaning substances with bleach or ammonia to do this. 

While they are effective against killing off bacteria and other harmful microorganisms, they can also be harsh against your granite or stone countertops. Continued use of these cleaning materials can make their luster and radiance fade away in no time. 

Use soap and hot water for your daily cleanups and you will be able to keep your countertops looking brand new for a longer time. 

3. DON’T: Place Hot Appliances and Pans Directly on the Surface

Extreme heat can cause your countertops to crack. Eventually, these cracks can expand and cause further damages. 

To avoid this, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s recommendations before placing hot appliances on your surfaces. Whether it’s your toaster oven, rice cooker, or coffee maker, it’s best to consult the manual first. If you can’t find any specific instruction for this, you’ll never go wrong with using a trivet as a barrier. 

The same goes for hot pans and pots. Aside from cracks, placing them directly on your countertops can cause unsightly burn marks that will haunt you forever. You may place trivets or pot holders between the pan and the surface to avoid this.

4. DON’T: Cut, Chop, or Slice Ingredients Directly on the Surface

Even if the surface is a butcher block, using your chopping boards for any cutting, chopping, or slicing is still the smartest way to go. 

Using your knives directly on your countertop can leave fine scratches on the surface. Aside from being unpleasant to look at, these scratches can break up the waterproof sealant on your countertop and expose the whole structure to further damage.

Conclusion 

Kitchen countertops are made to be functional, beautiful, and durable. However, they will not stay this way, especially if you are not mindful of how you use them. Take note of the points listed above and make sure to care for your surfaces the right way. Doing so will not only prolong their lifespan but also preserve their shine for the years to come. 

Have your countertops become chipped, cracked, stained, or discolored due to the practices mentioned above? Fret not—we offer the best countertop refinishing services in Baltimore, MD to restore your surfaces! Get in touch with us at 410-391-2284 and we’ll be happy to make your worn out countertops look brand new again.