| Formica countertops are a solid choice that | | | | dyes, glues, oven cleaner and even abrasive dish |
| marries beauty and affordability. Caring for these | | | | washing machine cleaners. Avoid spilling them on |
| counters correctly can extend their life and | | | | the counters if at all possible. |
| ensure they maintain their good looks over time. | | | | * Over watering. Since Formica counter tops |
| To extend the lifespan of Formica countertops, it | | | | typically have seam lines, it is important to avoid |
| is very important to clean them correctly and to | | | | flooding these counters. Too much water can leak |
| also avoiding doing or using things that can | | | | into the seams and cause swelling problems. |
| damage them. While they are a lot tougher than | | | | Formica counter tops tend to clean up very easy, |
| stone lovers might give them credit for, Formica | | | | but there are some basic instructions for their |
| counters can be damaged. When a little common | | | | care. They include: |
| sense goes into their care, these counters can | | | | * Standard cleaning. These counters generally can |
| hold up to normal wear and tear very well. | | | | be cleaned with nothing more than soapy water |
| The things to avoid to ensure Formica stays | | | | and a clean cloth or sponge. Window cleaner and |
| looking great include: | | | | paper towel works well, too. Avoid abrasives |
| * Heat and flames. Formica can and does burn | | | | when possible. |
| and scorch. Do not place electrical appliances or | | | | * Streak removal. Nothing more than regular |
| hot pots and pans directly on these counter tops. | | | | window cleaner is needed to clean up streaks in |
| Use hot plates, trivets or pads to protect the | | | | darker counter tops. |
| surface. Use care when smoking around these | | | | * Spills. These should be cleaned up right away. |
| counters, too, as cigarettes can leave behind | | | | Some spills can leave behind permanent staining, |
| nasty, permanent burn marks. | | | | so it is important to stay on top of them. If |
| * Cutting. Although these counters are scratch | | | | stains are a problem, try a mild cream cleanser. If |
| resistant, cutting directly on them can leave | | | | that doesn't do it, a mild bleach solution might |
| behind permanent marks. Use cutting boards to | | | | assist, but be prepared for the possibility of |
| protect the appearance of the counters. Also, | | | | discoloration. |
| never chop directly on the counter's surface. Use | | | | * Waxing. Some experts recommend this to |
| a board for this without fail. | | | | protect from staining and others do not. If a wax |
| * Harsh abrasives. Scouring powder and other | | | | or gel is desired, find one that is recommended |
| abrasive materials can damage these countertops. | | | | for use on Formica. |
| Stick to milder agents for cleaning. | | | | They might not be the most expensive counter |
| * Chemicals and solvents. Most of these can be | | | | tops on the market, but the fact is Formica can |
| sopped up right away with minimal or no damage, | | | | and does look beautiful. Keeping Formica counter |
| but do take care when using things such as drain | | | | tops looking great requires only a little basic care |
| cleaner and other acidic materials nearby. Other | | | | and common sense. |
| things that can damage these counters include | | | | |