Concrete countertops are a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels. They are durable, easy to clean, and come in various colors and finishes. However, like any other surface in your home, they can get dirty over time. They need regular cleaning to keep them looking their best. Below is a guide on cleaning concrete countertops, so they look like new again.
Steps To Clean Concrete Countertops
Step 1: Wipe
Wipe your countertops with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. Use a mild soap if needed. This step is essential because you don’t want to scrub dirt and grit into the surface of the concrete. If you have stubborn stains, you can pre-treat them with a commercial cleaner or a paste made from baking soda and water.
Step 2: Scrub
Once you’ve removed the surface dirt, it’s time to scrub the countertops with a brush or sponge. Use a mild abrasive cleaner and scrub in a circular motion. Be sure to rinse the countertops well after scrubbing.
Step 3: Seal
Seal countertops regularly to protect your countertops and keep them looking their best. You can use a commercial concrete sealer or a natural option like beeswax. Apply the sealer with a clean cloth and buff it on the surface. Allow the sealer to dry completely before using the countertops.
Step 4: Polish
To give your concrete countertops a nice shine, you can polish them with a commercial concrete polish or a homemade solution made from olive oil and lemon juice. Apply the polish with a clean cloth and buff it on the surface. Allow the polish to dry completely before using the countertops.
Step 5: Disinfect
Use a commercial cleaner or a solution made from hydrogen peroxide and water To disinfect your concrete countertops. Apply the cleaner with a clean cloth and scrub in a circular motion. Be sure to rinse the countertops well after disinfecting.
Which Cleaners are Better?
There are a variety of cleaners that you can use on concrete countertops. However, choose a gentle cleaner, so you don’t damage the surface. You should also avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia. If you’re unsure which cleaner to use, test it in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage the finish.
Concrete is a porous material, so it’s important to avoid using harsh cleaners or acidic solutions that could damage the surface. Use a pH-neutral cleaner to clean up spills as soon as they happen. Also, avoid using soap because it can leave a film on the countertops. The film can build up over time and make the countertops look dull.
When To Clean Concrete Countertop?
Clean the concrete countertops regularly to keep them looking their best. How often you clean them depends on how much traffic they get. You may need to clean them weekly if you have a busy household. If they don’t get a lot of use, you can clean them every other week or monthly.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach. When cleaning concrete countertops, use a soft cloth or sponge and a mild abrasive cleaner. You should also seal the countertops regularly to protect them from stains and damage. Clean them as often as needed, depending on how much traffic they get. You may need to clean them weekly if you have a busy household. If they don’t get a lot of use, you can clean them every other week or monthly.
Importance of Cleaning Concrete Countertops
1. Removes Dirt, Debris, and Bacteria
Dirt and debris form a barrier on the surface of concrete countertops, making them more challenging to clean. Not only that but dirt and debris can also harbor bacteria. Cleaning the countertops regularly removes dirt, debris, and bacteria so that the surface is clean and safe.
2. Prevents Stains and Damage
Countertops that aren’t cleaned regularly are more likely to suffer from surface damage. This is because dirt and debris can be abrasive, causing scratches and other types of damage. Stains can also be more difficult to remove if they’re allowed to set in.
3. Maintains the Appearance of the Countertops
Dirty countertops can make your kitchen or bathroom look messy and unkempt. They can also make it look like you don’t take care of your home. Cleaning and applying sealers and polishes can also help maintain the appearance of your concrete countertops.
4. Extends the Life of the Countertops
Regularly cleaned countertops stay in good condition and last longer. Dirt, debris, and stains can cause irreversible damage to the surface. Always clean up spills as soon as they happen and don’t use harsh cleaners or scrub the surface too hard.
Dos and Don’ts When Cleaning Concrete Countertops
- Do use a pH-neutral cleaner
- Do clean up spills as soon as they happen
- Do seal the countertops regularly
- Do clean them as often as needed, depending on how much traffic they get
- Don’t use soap; instead, use a soft cloth or sponge to clean the surface
- Don’t use harsh chemicals or cleaners
- Don’t use acidic solutions; they may damage the surface
- Don’t scrub the surface too hard; you may damage the finish
- Don’t forget to clean the edges and corners; dirt and debris can accumulate there too