Laminate countertops are a great option for those on a budget. They’re durable, easy to clean, and come in many different colors and finishes. But do laminate countertops stain?
Laminate countertops are stain-resistant but can still get by bleach, inks, and dyes. Most spills can be cleaned up with a damp cloth, but if the spill is left to sit for too long, it could stain the countertop.
It’s important to keep in mind that not all laminate countertops are created equal. The cheaper options may be more susceptible to staining than higher-quality ones.
If you want to make your countertops stain-resistant, try applying a sealant. This will help protect the laminate and keep it looking nice for years to come.
Why Is Laminate Resistant To Staining?
Laminate is resistant to staining because of the way it’s made and the sealant used to protect them. The top layer is a vinyl print that’s applied to a fiberboard or MDF base.
This makes it difficult for certain spills and liquids to penetrate the surface, which can cause staining.
Applying a sealant helps to keep moisture out, which is why it’s important to reapply it every few years. If you don’t, the laminate could start to look faded and worn as laminate countertops are not fool-proof stain resistant.
What Type Of Stains Are Laminate Resistant To?
Laminate is resistant to most stains, but there are a few exceptions. Laminate countertops are usually resistant to stains like dried liquid, fresh food spills, and dirt.
But they can get stained if there’s an excess of something like oil or bleach that sits in one place for too long. The laminate will eventually absorb the substance into its top layer, which can cause staining over time.
Fresh Juice, wine, and other types of liquids can cause the laminate to discolor if they’re not cleaned up right away.
Oil and grease can also leave behind a stain, so it’s important to clean up any spills as soon as they happen. If a spill is left to sit, it could penetrate the surface and cause a permanent stain. More on this later.
Why Do Laminate Countertops Sometimes Stain?
Although laminate countertops are fairly stain resistant they are still porous and can still get stained. This is because the sealant that is used to protect them can start to wear over time.
If the sealant isn’t reapplied every few years, the laminate could start to look faded and worn as they are not fool-proof stain resistant.
Also, laminate countertops are finished with a thin film or vinyl that can sometimes get scratched. If this happens, the laminate could start to show through and look duller than it used to be.
This is why you’ll want to make sure your sealant has UV protection, which will help prevent fading over time.
What Can Stain Laminate Countertops?
This now begs the question, what can stain laminate countertops? Well, as far as laminate goes, there are still quite a lot of things that can stain it, and depending on which part of the world you are in, the list might be a little different.
Listed below are some of the most common substances that have been known to stain laminate countertops:
1. Bleach
Chlorine bleach is a very strong chemical that can cause discoloration on laminate countertops. If you come into contact with it, be sure to rinse the area immediately and apply some type of household cleaner.
You want to get rid of any bleach spill or stains as soon as possible to prevent them from setting in and becoming permanent.
Also, do not use bleach to clean dirt, spills, or stains from your laminate countertops. This will only make them worse since bleach can easily seep into the laminate and cause staining over time.
2. Oil & Grease
It’s important to clean up any spills as soon as they happen because oil and grease can do some heavy damage if left on your laminate for a long period of time.
When oil or grease comes into contact with laminate, it can cause the surface to become slick and difficult to clean. Not only that, but it can also start to smell over time if not cleaned up properly.
If there’s a spill, be sure to use a cleaning agent that is designed specifically for oil or grease stains. This will help remove the substance and prevent it from causing any permanent damage.
Remember, the laminate is still porous and if oil or grease sits on it for too long, this could eventually cause a stain to form – especially right in that spot where you left your pizza slice.
3. Red Wine & Coffee
You might want to avoid drinking wine while cooking because red wine can easily end up on your laminate countertop.
If this happens, try blotting the area with a towel or rag and then immediately rinse it off with water to prevent any staining from setting in. The sooner you get rid of red wine stains, the easier they will be to remove.
Coffee can also cause a stain if not cleaned up right away. If you spill coffee on your laminate countertops, be sure to wipe it up with a clean rag right away and then rinse the area thoroughly.
Most of all, do not try to scrub off any spills or stains as this will only cause them to set in – causing permanent discoloration.
4. Inks And Food Coloring
Food color and Ink are other substances that can stain laminate countertops. If you happen to spill ink on your countertop, be sure to blot it up with a paper towel as quickly as possible.
You also want to make sure you are using a cleaning agent that is specifically designed to remove ink stains. This will help prevent the stain from setting in and causing more damage over time.
Once again, do not try scrubbing off any type of food coloring or ink as this could only make it worse by spreading the substance around and seeping into your laminate countertops.
5. Heat & Hot Pans
Hot pans can cause scratches on your laminate countertop. If you’re not careful when taking a hot pan out of the oven, it could accidentally burn your surface as well.
To prevent this from happening, be sure to use potholders or an oven mitt so that you don’t burn yourself in the process.
As for hot pans, you should use a trivet or at the very least place it on a clean dishcloth to prevent any damage from occurring.
What Can You Use To Clean Stains From Laminate Countertops?
When it comes to cleaning stains from your laminate countertops, there are a few different things you can use.
All-Purpose Cleaner
For basic spills and dirt, you can use a household cleaner or all-purpose cleaner. Be sure to read the label of whatever product you’re using to make sure it is safe for use on laminate surfaces.
These types of cleaners are great for everyday spills and messes, but they might not be strong enough to remove tougher stains.
Barkeepers Friend
Barkeepers Friend is a product that you can use to remove stains from your laminate countertops.
This type of cleaner will work well on tougher spills such as ink and oil, but it might not be strong enough for difficult stains like red wine or coffee.
You should also make sure the area you’re cleaning has been thoroughly rinsed off before using Barkeepers Friend to avoid any residue build-up.
Pledge
If you’re looking for a product that can not only clean your laminate countertops but also protect them from future stains, then Pledge is a good option to consider.
This type of cleaner comes in a spray bottle and all you have to do is spray it onto your countertops and then wipe it off with a clean rag. It will both protect and shine the surface without leaving any residue behind.
You should also make sure to read through the Pledge cleaning instructions on what types of surfaces you can use this product on. You might want to test out an inconspicuous area first before using it all over.
Mild Dish Soap
Mild dish soap is another option for cleaning your laminate countertops. They are mild and gentle and will not cause any damage to your surface.
You can either use a dish rag or sponge to apply the soap and then rinse it off with water. Be sure to dry the area completely afterward as any leftover moisture could cause damage in the future.
Final Thoughts
Laminate countertops are a popular choice for many homeowners because they are affordable and easy to maintain. However, that doesn’t mean they are immune to staining – especially if they aren’t maintained or properly sealed.
If you’ve noticed your laminate countertops are becoming discolored or stained, then it might be time to re-seal them.
You can also get a professional or use a DIY kit to help get the job done.
In addition, there are some products you can use to clean your laminate countertops if they become stained. Be sure to read the labels of each product to make sure it is safe for use on this type of surface.
And finally, always be careful when handling hot pans as they can easily cause scratches or burns.