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.
For Formica® HPL and DecoMetal® Metal Laminates, we recommend disinfecting with: 1) Quaternary Ammonium which is the largest group (198 listed) of EPA approved disinfectants. Examples of Quaternary Ammonium products include: Clorox® Disinfecting Wipes, Lysol®, Virex®, Caviwipes®… 3) Sodium Hypochlorite or Bleach.
Check the Wipe for Compatibility With the Type of Surface
While most wipes are safe to use on hard, non-porous surfaces like laminate, sealed granite, vinyl, and fiberglass, they are not safe to use on unfinished wood or extremely worn surfaces.
Will rubbing alcohol damage laminate countertops? Yes. Alcohol is a powerful cleaning agent on counters and is strong enough to kill bacteria and viruses. But since it contains ethanol, rubbing alcohol can damage the laminate's finishes.
The CDC recommends two main disinfectants when it comes to countertop sanitization: diluted bleach and alcohol. Mix ⅓ cup of bleach with one gallon of water for an easy and effective solution. Alternatively, store-bought isopropyl alcohol with at least 70% alcohol content will kill pretty much everything it touches.
Abrasive pads or scouring powder should not be used on laminate countertops as they can scratch or dull the surface making it more susceptible to staining. Harsh chemical cleaners such as: toilet bowl cleaners, oven cleaners, drain cleaners, coffee pot cleaners, hydrogen peroxide and rust removers should be avoided.
The Formica Group cautions against using bleach to clean laminate countertops.
Ordinary Cleaning
Formica® Laminate is very easy to clean. In most cases, you only need to use a clean, damp, nonabrasive cotton cloth and a mild liquid detergent or household cleaner. Clean the soiled area using a rotating motion.
To look after your countertop surfaces, you should wipe up any food residue, liquid or grime as soon as they appear. To clean your countertops, we would recommend a strong antibacterial cleaner such as Lysol® All-Purpose Cleaner.
Lysol wipes may be acceptable for quick cleaning as long as they are bleach free but use them sparingly. The last thing you want to do is permanently damage your countertop when you're simply trying to deal with a temporary spill.
Wipe cabinet surfaces with a wet sponge. Mix ½ cup of Clorox® Regular-Bleach2 with CLOROMAX® with 1 gallon of water. Wipe the surface. Wait 5 minutes for disinfecting.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends warm, soapy water to clean countertops and other kitchen surfaces before and after food preparation.
Rubbing alcohol is a natural bactericide and can also kill fungus and viruses. It has no ill effects on your granite or the seal on your granite so it's an ideal way to keep countertops clean.
White vinegar is a natural disinfectant. It contains 5% acetic acid, which has antimicrobial properties. It's also great at cutting through grease and grime, so it's perfect for cleaning kitchen surfaces like stovetops, tables, and counters.
Countertop Cleaner: How to Clean Countertops With Bleach
Pour 1/2 cup of Clorox Regular Bleach1 with CLOROMAX® into 1 gallon of water. Wipe counter with bleach solution. Wait 5 minutes for disinfecting. Rinse with warm water.
Homeowners or renters with laminate countertops may also want to steer clear of bleach. Though laminate is fairly hardy, it's not the most durable substance in the world. Bleach can damage the laminate countertop or can cause permanent discoloration.
Disinfect Countertops
To clean, add ½ cup of Clorox Regular Bleach with CLOROMAX®️ into one gallon of water. Next, wipe the countertop with the bleach solution. Then, let it stand for five minutes and rinse with warm water.
Next up, to sanitize the sink, stop the drain and fill the basin with warm water. Add a small amount of bleach and let that sit for upwards of five minutes before draining the sink. Be sure to wipe down the handles and faucet with the bleach solution as well. Finally, rinse with warm water to remove the bleach.
When a recommended cleaner changes its formulation, the change may be harmful to the laminate surface. Formica Corporation cannot be held responsible for these changes. Solvents such as denatured alcohol can also be used.
When looking to update or overhaul a countertop, use a resin, acrylic or polyurethane coating that's specifically labeled for use as a laminate countertop sealant. Polyurethane coating or a resin laminate sealer will provide shine and a protective coating.
EVERY 3 TO 6 MONTHS.
Tips for Disinfecting Cabinets
Our first quick fix involves a rag or towel dampened with a solution of 3/4 cup of bleach per one bucket of water. Once applied, carefully wipe all cabinet surfaces. Next, go over everything again with a plain, wet cloth.