Laminate
Your decision to purchase laminate countertops will bring you years of quality
performance. Everyday cleaning is as simple as a quick wipe with a damp sponge.
All resist muddy fingerprints, coffee spills and so much more. Be sure to read
and follow the recommended care and cleaning procedures.
Routine Care
To clean the surface, use a damp cloth or sponge and a mild soap or detergent.
Difficult stains such as coffee or tea can be removed using a mild household
cleaner/detergent and a soft bristled brush, repeating as necessary. If a stain
persists, use a paste of baking soda and water and apply with a soft bristled
brush. Light scrubbing for 10 to 20 strokes should remove most stains. Although
baking soda is a low abrasive, excessive scrubbing or exerting too much force
could damage the decorative surface, especially if it has a gloss finish. Stubborn
stains that resist any of the above cleaning methods may require the use of undiluted
household bleach or nail polish remover. Apply the bleach or nail polish remover
to the stain and let stand no longer than two minutes. Rinse thoroughly with
warm water and wipe dry. This step may be repeated if the stain appears to be
going away and the color of the laminate has not been affected.
WARNING:
Prolonged exposure of the laminate surface to bleach will cause discoloration.
Tips & Warnings:
- Acidic or abrasive cleaners can damage laminate surfaces; do not use them.
- Drain cleaners containing lye will permanently damage any laminate surface.
If you spill a drain cleaner, wipe it up immediately and rinse several times
with water.
- Hair, textile and food dyes can cause permanent stains. If dye should happen
to spill, wipe it up immediately with dishwashing detergent or an all-purpose
cleaner.
- Never place pots or dishes directly from the oven or burner on an unprotected
laminate surface; such extreme heat can cause cracking or blistering.
- Do not work with oven cleaners on an unprotected countertop. Wipe spills
away promptly and rinse several times with water.
- Rust removers contain harsh chemicals which will quickly cause permanent
damage. If a spill occurs, wipe off all residue immediately, wash thoroughly
with soapy water and rinse several times.
- Steel wool and other abrasive pads will damage laminate. Don’t use them
for cleaning and don’t store steel wool pads on your countertop; the metal can
rust and leave stains.
- Toilet bowl cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can cause permanent damage.
If spills occur, wipe up immediately, wash surface with soapy water and rinse
several times.
- The surface of a countertop should never be used as a cutting surface. Use
your knives and other sharp objects on a chopping board.
- Keep all seams dry! Excessive water standing in the area of a seam, especially
behind the sink, may cause permanent damage to the backsplash.
- Hot pans and heat-producing appliances (electric skillets, etc.) should never
be set directly on the countertop. Always use a heat shield, hot pad or trivet.
Warranties
For warranty information, visit the following website(s):
Arborite: www.arborite.com/en
Pionite: www.pionite.com
Formica: www.formica.com
Wilsonart: www.wilsonart.com
Nevamar: www.nevamar.com