Clean a laminate countertop without flooding the seams.

Laminate countertops are easy to care for, but standing water and abrasive scrubbers can damage their finish or the material beneath it. Everyday cleaning works best with a soft cloth, a mild detergent, and prompt drying. Confirm that your surface is laminate and check its manufacturer’s care instructions before treating a stain.

What you’ll need

• Two clean nonabrasive cotton or microfiber cloths
• Mild liquid dish detergent
• Warm water
• Dry soft towel
• Soft nylon brush for textured laminate only

Take it step by step

1. Move appliances and crumbs out of the way. Wipe or brush away loose grit before adding moisture.
2. Dampen a soft cloth with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Wring it out so it is wet enough to clean but not dripping.
3. Wipe the soiled area in gentle circular motions. For a textured finish, use a soft nylon brush lightly; never use steel wool, sandpaper, or an abrasive pad.
4. Rinse the area with a second clean, damp cloth so detergent residue does not remain.
5. Dry the entire surface immediately, paying special attention to seams, the backsplash joint, sink cutout, and front edge. Return countertop appliances only after the surface is dry.

When to ask for help

Ask for qualified help if the laminate is lifting, bubbled, cracked, swollen at a seam, or loose near a sink. Cleaning cannot repair a wet substrate, and pressing a damaged surface flat may trap moisture.