Table of Contents
When it comes to home improvement, Formica and laminate countertops are both excellent low-maintenance choices. With regular cleaning and dust removal, they can stay in great condition for years. However, once laminate surfaces are damaged, they can quickly turn into a challenge to maintain. Even minor scratches on laminate or Formica worktops can make the counters look unattractive, while stains and dirt often settle into those small grooves.
This becomes especially important during end of lease cleaning, as property managers pay close attention to the condition of kitchen surfaces. Scratched or dirty countertops can negatively impact the final inspection. The good news is that if your laminate or Formica countertop has a few scratches, you don’t need to panic there are ways to restore and maintain their look before moving out.
How to Clean Laminate Countertops Safely
Cleaning your laminate countertop is refreshingly simple and thankfully, you don’t need a stash of expensive products to keep it looking great. In fact, the key to making your countertop last is using gentle methods rather than harsh chemicals or abrasive tools.
What You’ll Need
- Mild liquid dish soap (like Dawn or Seventh Generation)
- A soft microfiber cloth or non-scratch sponge
- Warm water
- White vinegar (optional for deep cleaning)
- An old toothbrush (for crevices)
Simple Steps to a Shiny, Undamaged Surface
- Wipe Away the Everyday Mess
Start by removing loose crumbs and dust with a dry cloth. Then, dampen your microfiber cloth with warm water and add just a few drops of mild liquid dish soap. Wipe down the surface using gentle, circular motions. - Tackle Grease and Grime Safely
For tougher spots or greasy splatters, mix a tablespoon of white vinegar with two cups of warm water. Lightly run your cloth over those stubborn areas just don’t let the solution sit too long, and always make sure to dry the surface completely with a clean towel afterwards. - Handle Crevices and Edges
To clean seams or edges where crumbs like to hide, use a soft toothbrush dipped in your soapy water solution. Scrub gently to avoid scratching, and wipe away moisture when you’re done.
A Few Things to Avoid
- Skip scouring pads or abrasive powders they can leave tiny scratches.
- Don’t use bleach, strong chemicals, or any products labeled for ovens, tile, or toilet surfaces.
- Avoid letting water pool near seams, as too much moisture can seep in and cause bubbles beneath the surface.
Keeping your laminate spotless is really just a matter of steady, gentle care. By using non-abrasive tools and skipping the harsh stuff, your countertop will stay presentable and easy to maintain for years to come.
You may also like to read about- “Make Your Kitchen Sparkle This Christmas – Ovens to Countertops”
Effective Solutions for Laminate Countertop Scratches
Scratches in Formica and laminate are usually caused by cleaning pads that are too rough and detergents that are too strong and solid. For the same reason, you should never clean Formica or laminate with anything stronger than a light detergent and never use steel wool. Professional domestic cleaning services also recommend using gentle, non-abrasive products to protect these surfaces and maintain their shine for longer.
To keep your countertops in top shape, regular gentle cleaning is key. Always use a soft, non-abrasive microfiber cloth along with a mild liquid detergent or even a simple mix of water and a splash of vinegar (about a tablespoon in two cups of water). Wipe the surface gently and let the mixture sit for a couple of minutes if needed before drying.
Avoid Harsh Cleaners
Steer clear of any commercial cleaners meant for cooktops, tiles, or bathroom surfaces, as these often contain acids or harsh chemicals that can damage laminate. Similarly, skip standard furniture polishes many contain silicone, which can leave behind streaks or cause discoloration over time.
A daily wipe-down with an antibacterial surface cleaner and a soft cloth will help maintain the natural shine of your countertop and minimize the risk of future scratches. With regular care, your laminate or Formica countertop will keep looking bright and new.
Even though the scratches might seem impossible to get rid of, you can get them with high-quality countertop polish or wax, which you can get from some of the common super markets around the nation.
To get rid of scratches, you can also use car wax or a repair paste made for Formica and Laminate. For best results, look for a polishing agent specifically formulated for laminate countertops products like Hope’s Perfect Countertop spray wax are popular choices, as they enhance shine and color without leaving streaks behind. These specialized polishes not only help cover up scratches, but also refresh the overall look of your surface, making those imperfections far less noticeable. The steps below will show you how to remove scratches from laminate or Formica countertops.
Removing Stubborn Stains from Laminate Countertops
Stubborn stains can be a tough customer on laminate surfaces, but with a little patience and the right approach, you can have your countertops looking spotless again.
First, reach for a gentle antibacterial surface cleaner and a soft microfiber or cotton cloth. Daily cleaning keeps everyday grime and light stains at bay, protecting that signature laminate shine.
For tougher stains that refuse to budge, skip the heavy-duty bathroom and tile cleaners those often contain harsh acids that can damage laminate finishes. Instead, use something more kitchen-friendly, like mild dish soap or a homemade solution of two cups of water mixed with a tablespoon of white vinegar. Simply dampen your cloth with the mixture, let it sit on the stain for a couple of minutes, then wipe the area clean.
If the mark is still there, whip up a paste of baking soda and water. Gently apply the paste on the stain using a nylon brush or even a trusty old toothbrush. Scrub lightly, making sure not to press too hard gentleness is key to avoid scratching the surface further. Rinse the spot with clean water and dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.
For particularly stubborn stains, you can use a bit of rubbing alcohol or acetone dabbed onto a cloth. Wipe the area in small circular motions until the stain lifts. Always finish by rinsing off the cleaner and buffing the surface dry. Remember not to soak the laminate, especially around seams, as moisture can seep in and cause swelling beneath the surface.
You may also like to read about- “Maintain & Clean Kitchen Cabinets Like a Pro”
Steps to follow
The first thing you need to do is fill in the scratches with auto wax, countertop polish, or a special Formica repair solution rather than any abrasive cleaning methods.
Clean the spots where you scraped very well. To keep the scratches from getting worse, you should use a soft cotton cloth and a cleanser that doesn’t have any abrasives in it. To make sure the filler sticks completely to the surface, you should clean away any dirt or debris that might be on the cutting boards.
Laminate the surface and put shine or auto wax on the car’s lighter and shallower scratches with the color of your countertop. Make sure to use a circular motion when applying wax or polish. Use a soft cloth and a circular motion to buff the scratches until the wax or shine has filled in and covered all of the scratches.
Polishing Tips for Laminate Countertops
Avoid using standard commercial furniture polishes, since many contain silicone and other chemicals that can leave streaks or dull the surface over time. Instead, opt for a product specifically designed for countertops, such as Hope’s Perfect Countertop spray wax, or stick to car wax and gentle polish solutions.
- Grab a dry, clean, non-abrasive microfiber or cotton cloth for the job.
- Apply your chosen polish or wax in a circular motion, working it into the scratched area.
- Buff the surface gently but thoroughly, adding a bit of elbow grease if needed, until you see the shine return and scratches become less noticeable.
If you’re aiming for an extra boost of shine, a quick spray and wipe with a countertop-specific wax can really help your surface look as good as new just make sure to avoid anything abrasive or chemical-heavy.
To fill in any big or deep scratches, it’s best to match the color of your countertop. Spread some filler out on a dish or plate and use a putty knife to start pushing it into the scratches. Keep doing this until the filler starts to get thick and solid.
Use the solvent you got at the same time as the laminate filler. Using a clean towel to put the solvent on the scrapes and rub it in should help.
While you are doing this, use your putty knife to pick up any excess filler and put it on any scratches you have during laminate repair.
Use the cloth that has been soaked in the solvent to take out any extra filling. Look at the scratches after the filler has had time to dry. Keep doing what you’re doing until your counter looks and feels good.
If all else fails and you can’t get rid of those stains and scratches, many homeowners opt to paint laminate countertops for a fresh, updated look. It’s a budget-friendly alternative that can completely transform old, worn-out surfaces without the cost of a full replacement.
You may also like to read about- “What Are Some Easy Ways to Clean Kitchen Cabinets?”
Conclusion
Scratches on your laminate countertop don’t have to ruin its appearance. With a few simple repair techniques and regular maintenance, you can easily restore its look and extend its lifespan. And if you’re moving out and need your countertops to shine during an end of lease clean, professional help can make all the difference. At Dirt2Tidy, our expert cleaners ensure every corner of your kitchen including laminate countertops looks spotless, helping you leave your home in perfect condition.
Make your move stress-free let Dirt2Tidy restore your countertops and home to spotless perfection!
