Using the right cleaning solutions and methods will ensure that your countertops will look great for years.
NATURAL GRANITE
"Acidic cleaning products and anything vinegar-based can damage granite, so only use warm water, a conservative amount of soap and a wet sponge or soft cloth to clean the surface. Granite can be porous if it isn't sealed properly, so it should be cleaned thoroughly and sealed before it's installed. Some companies sell special cleaning kits that contain a sealant-specific solution to protect the surface, so contact your granite provider or the company that installed your countertops to inquire about specialized products."
WOOD
"Wood is easily damaged, so try to wipe up all spills quickly to prevent stains and keep countertops as dry as possible. About once a month or so, rub linseed or mineral oil into the wood to protect it from moisture."
STAINLESS STEEL
"Stainless steel is very sensitive to the atmosphere, and when it's exposed to harsh chemicals or materials, it can become permanently damaged. Similarly, leaving wet materials on a surface will lead to discoloration, so your countertops should be kept dry at all times.
To keep stainless steel clean, regularly wash the surface with warm water and a small amount of baking soda. Always thoroughly dry your countertops after cleaning to prevent water spots. Watch out for mineral deposits, which can be extremely tough to clean on this material. To remove these deposits, use a small amount of vinegar and rinse with water. Never use abrasive materials like steel wool. Rough cloths or pads will scratch the surface and ruin stainless steel's reflective finish."
FORMICA
"To clean Formica counters, avoid abrasive cleaners -- including ammonia or bleach -- and use mild soap, a soft cloth and warm water. Be sure to wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining. Formica is easy to maintain if spills are cleaned up right away, but if a stain sets in, it'll be practically impossible to remove. Formica also has a tendency to show streaks, but a household glass cleaner can return the surface back to its original appearance."
SILESTONE
"Your silestone countertop should be finished with a protective polish that's scratch-, stain- and scorch-resistant, so it'll be protected no matter what it comes in contact with. Silestone can withstand coffee, lemon juice, wine, vinegar, olive oil and makeup spills. Clean the surface using mild household cleaners. Make it a point to avoid harsh cleansers, and always use a nonabrasive cleaning sponge or pad to remove any stubborn stains. You should also avoid using excessive pressure or force. If a stain sets on the surface, soak the area for a short time to loosen stubborn particles, and then use a soft cloth to lift and remove the stain."
CONCRETE
"When concrete is used in homes, it's often cured and sealed for protection and longevity. To clean concrete surfaces, use a mixture of vinegar and water, and always avoid abrasive soaps and cleaning solutions containing harsh chemicals. Abrasive pads and sponges can damage the surface as well."
CERAMIC TILE
"Ceramic tiles are extremely durable, but the grout between them is soft, porous and prone to cracks. Use these tips to keep your countertops clean:
Use a toothbrush or nail brush to scrub grout. To remove mildew, dip the brush in household bleach.
When you clean grout, don't use harsh abrasive cleaners, which might scratch the glaze on ceramic tile.
Many foam and spray tile and grout cleaners are available. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, and rinse with water to finish the job. Be sure to wear rubber gloves, and don't inhale the mist from spray cleaners."
ACRYLIC
"A very hot pan will leave a permanent burn on the surface, but scouring powder or steel wool will remove stains and scratches.
For routine cleaning:
Use a mild abrasive cleanser applied directly to the wet countertop.
Rinse well.
Buff dry with a soft cloth."
MARBLE
"Marble countertops are porous and susceptible to stains, but they aren't affected by heat.
Treat marble with a special stone sealer to reduce its porosity, and wipe up wine, fruit juice and other acidic food spills immediately to prevent permanent surface etching. Abrasive cleaners will mar the surface of marble, and oil polish and soft waxes may discolor it.
While many commercial cleaners are available, borax rubbed into the surface with a moistened cloth will also clean marble. Rinse with warm water, and buff dry with a soft cloth."
*Sources Cited- howstuffworks.com/"10 Countertop Cleaning Tips"/by Editors of Consumer Guide and Natalie Kilgore