Laminate countertops are made from plastic resins that make the countertops very easy to clean and resistant to stains. Simple cleaning with soap and water is all that's normally required. They can, however, be scratched if abrasive cleansers are used on them.
Of course, they aren't as rock solid as quartz and granite, but this doesn't make them a bad choice for the price point. In fact, laminate can be a wise investment for those on a budget. Nowadays, laminate countertops 'rock' because not only are they super durable – they look like the real thing!
Lifespan. With standard use, well taken care of laminate countertops will last about 15 years. After that, they'll show significant wear and fading. Heavy use will dramatically shorten their lifespan.
Although white laminates provide a touch of aesthetic to your home, the maintenance requires more effort and diligence when you compare them to other laminates. That's because white laminates can stain easily due to oxidation, just like the clear silicone casing of your phone.
Some people are concerned that laminate could look 'cheap', but in fact high quality laminates are now widely available, which feature realistic designs, and even register embossing where the wood grain is mirrored by imprinting on the surface of the plank.
Dirty hard surface floors are usually caused by the environment, an overuse of chemicals, and a large volume of traffic. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to keep your floor looking and feeling cleaner for longer.
Laminate countertops can be permanently damaged when exposed to excessive heat. Care should be taken with cookware as it comes out of ovens or off burners. Use trivets or insulated pads beneath the hot objects when placing them on the laminate surface.
Laminate is a budget-friendly option that can look really great and complete the look of your kitchen. However, you'll have to be a little more careful and vigilant if you want it to last. Quartz is more durable than laminate, and that quality is reflected in the price.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz is one of the strongest materials you can use, making it one of the best-value countertops available. Both scratch- and stain-resistant, quartz countertops can look brand new for years even after withstanding heavy usage.
Quartz. Quartz is the most durable countertop material. A perfect choice for any kitchen or bathroom, quartz countertops contain a mixture of crushed quartz and resin. These materials create diverse appearance options that range from vibrant, customizable colors to the tried-and-true natural finish.
Quartz countertops are one of the best alternatives to granite counters in terms of durability, aesthetic appeal, functionality, and versatility.
Laminate flooring is one of the easiest surfaces to clean due to the powerful aluminum oxide top coating that resists stains and harsh chemicals. Although it is easy to clean, routine maintenance is still necessary!
If your floor has developed a slight film or waxy buildup on it (which happens over time when the wrong cleaning products are used), you can instead combine a gallon of hot water with a cup of white vinegar. Vinegar, which is a natural cleaning agent, will break down the film without hurting the laminate surface.
Spray the area with Windex and allow it to sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean. Rinse well if using near food preparation areas. Windex is great on countertops, too, including quartz, granite, marble, laminate and tile.
Appliance wax or light furniture wax helps laminate surfaces resist stains and scratching. Try applying it with regularity for better results and never use abrasive cleaners or steel wool on laminate countertops.
Laminate – No. Hot pans can leave permanent burn marks. Use trivets underneath appliances that get hot.
Laminate, Formica®, and Wilsonart® are all essentially the same thing; laminate is the substance, and Formica® and Wilsonart® are the brand names. Both types are widely marketed for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, and bar counters and available in a variety of colors and designs.
Being comprised of wood fiberboard, laminate flooring is susceptible to permanent damage if it comes into contact with water for a considerable amount of time. When the proper precautions are taken, however, it can deliver long last performance.
To clean laminate countertops on a daily basis, all you need is dishwashing liquid, warm water and a microfiber cloth. Apply a mixture of dish soap and water to your counters using the cloth. As you wipe the counter, rinse your cloth in clean water.
You should sweep and mop them regularly. Use a specialty mop to clean them without excess liquid. Though laminate floors are water resistant, if they are soaked in water, they can be damaged. The best way to clean laminate floors is to use products especially made for them.
Yes, you can use a wet Swiffer or Swiffer WetJet on laminate floors. "The wet Swiffer is best for quickly cleaning small spaces," Forte says.
Don't use a soaking wet mop on laminate; if water soaks through it can seep into and under the layers causing warping. Any spills should be dealt with using a damp cloth and the residue wiped up with a dry cloth immediately.