Is Windex safe for laminate countertops?

Author: Kirsten Runte  |  Last update: Sunday, October 26, 2025

Windex is great on countertops, too, including quartz, granite, marble, laminate and tile. Just make sure that if you're cleaning natural stone counters that have a sealant, such as granite, marble or quartzite, you're using a Windex version that is free of ammonia and vinegar.

Can I use Windex on laminate counters?

Never use an acidic or abrasive cleaner on your laminate countertop. These can damage the surface. Recommended cleaners: Windex, Glass Plus, Fantastik, Mr. Clean, and Formula 409.

What is the best thing to clean laminate countertops with?

Cleaning laminate countertops is as simple as cleaning the dishes. Take a non-abrasive brush or sponge, and add warm water and a drop of dish soap. Scrub the countertops until the suds lift away the dirt and grime. Rinse your sponge with clean water, and wring out continually.

What not to use on laminate countertops?

DO NOT use abrasive cleaners, powders, scouring pads or steel wool to clean the countertops. These will scratch and damage the tops. 1. Laminate countertops are not stain-proof.

When not to use Windex?

What Should You NOT Use Glass Cleaner On?
  • Electronics. ...
  • Plastic Mirrors. ...
  • Car Touchscreens. ...
  • Wooden Furniture. ...
  • Painted Surfaces. ...
  • Antique or Delicate Glassware. ...
  • Acrylic or Plexiglass. ...
  • Stainless Steel Appliances.

Everything about laminate countertops!

Is Windex safe for all surfaces?

You can use Windex® Ammonia-Free Glass Cleaner on your car's tinted windows, mirrors, glass, chrome, stainless steel, plastic, and vinyl surfaces.

Can I use glass cleaner on countertops?

1) Glass Cleaners

You can do permanent damage to your granite counter by using window cleaners. Even sealed natural stone countertops are pretty porous and can only handle mild cleaning products. Wipe down your marble or granite counters with a mixture of soap and water. Dry with a microfiber cloth or soft cloth.

What can damage laminate countertops?

Laminate counters can scratch easily, so don't use them as cutting boards. Also, avoid placing hot items directly onto the countertop to prevent damage. Clean the surface with a mild soap. Laminates are also susceptible to burns and chipping, which is one downside.

How do you keep laminate countertops shiny?

To maintain the natural shine of a high pressure laminate countertop, clean it on a daily basis with an antibacterial surface cleaner and a soft microfiber cloth. This will minimize stains and prevent abrasive dirt from damaging the surface.

What is the downside of laminate countertops?

Laminate Countertop Cons: Heat sensitive: Laminate can scorch or discolor when exposed to hot pots and pans. Prone to scratching: While durable, the surface can be damaged by sharp objects. Not as long-lasting: Compared to natural stone, laminate has a slightly shorter lifespan.

What is the best liquid cleaner for laminate?

Final Verdict. Our best overall is the Black Diamond Floor Cleaner, which comes in a convenient spray bottle, and is quick and easy to use. Plus, it was a winner in all of our cleaning tests, wiping out stains like tomato sauce, dirt, and soda.

Is Formica the same as laminate?

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.

Is it safe to use vinegar on laminate countertops?

Vinegar is not safe for all types of countertops. It can damage natural stone surfaces like marble, granite, and limestone due to its acidic nature. However, it is safe to use on engineered countertops like quartz, laminate, stainless steel, and butcher block, just be cautious with prolonged exposure on laminate seams.

What is the best cleaner for laminate countertops?

Simply combine a tablespoon of baking soda with a couple of tablespoons of water and mix those together to form a paste. Spread the paste over the stain and let it sit for about five minutes. Afterwards, wipe your countertops down with a damp microfiber cloth. Don't scrub, or you could damage the surface.

Does Windex leave a residue?

Using Windex on your home windows might seem like a convenient choice, but it can leave residue behind and actually attract more dust. Instead invest in a squeegee and Dawn dish soap to clean windows. Start at the top and work your way down, using vertical or horizontal swoops.

Can you use glass cleaner on laminate?

More persistent stains such as ink and dyes can be removed by using a stronger detergent or glass cleaner, but the stain should be tackled as soon as possible or it could become permanent. Allow the cleaner to work for several minutes before blotting with a damp cloth and then rinsing.

What not to do with laminate countertops?

Cupholders are best for your coffee and tea.
  1. Never disinfect laminate with bleach. ...
  2. Avoid using abrasive cleaners. ...
  3. Never cut directly on the countertop. ...
  4. Keep large amounts of liquid from pooling on the countertop. ...
  5. Never use a steel wool pad on grease and stains. ...
  6. Avoid burdening laminate with excessive weight.

How do you fix a dull laminate countertop?

The same properties that make plastic laminate such a tough and durable material for countertops also make it impossible to patch or repair fully. However, you can clean and polish laminate with a product like Gel-Gloss, a milky white cleaner/polish much like automotive wax.

Can you use Windex on laminate countertops?

Make your laminate countertop shine with Windex

Let the Windex sit on the stain for a couple of minutes. Then, spray the entire surface of your countertop until it's wet. Leave the Windex on the countertop for 10 minutes so that it sanitizes the surface. Wipe the counter dry with a soft, lint-free towel.

What is the lifespan of laminate countertops?

Most laminate countertops can last around 15 years, though high-quality, well-maintained laminates can hold up for 20 years! This lifespan compares to butcher block countertops but is significantly shorter than stone surfaces, like granite or quartz, which can last a lifetime.

Can I put hot pans on laminate countertops?

Placing hot pans directly on this surface can possibly weaken or chip the countertop. We recommend always using a trivet. Laminate – No. Hot pans can leave permanent burn marks.

How do you bring laminate countertops back to life?

Restoring your laminate worktop
  1. Step 1 – Disinfect and clean laminate worktop. Pour a small amount (1/4 cup) of white vinegar onto a clean, lint-free cloth. ...
  2. Step 2 – Waxing your laminate worktop. ...
  3. Step 3 – Buffing the wax on the worktop. ...
  4. Step 4 – Clean your laminate worktop. ...
  5. Step 5 – Polishing your laminate worktop.

What should Windex not be used on?

“Windex shouldn't be used on granite or marble kitchen tops. Cleaners like Windex can etch or dull the surfaces of natural stone,” says Rick Glickman, president of Dream Kitchens, a design studio in Highland Park, Illinois.

Can you use Dawn dish soap to clean countertops?

Frequently Asked Questions. Is Dawn dish soap safe for granite? Yes, Dawn dish soap is safe to use to clean granite countertops. Not only is it safe to use on your cooking and food prep surfaces, but it is also a great degreaser and can remove stubborn grease stains.

Can I use Clorox wipes on my countertops?

No, you can't use disinfecting wipes on granite countertops. This is because disinfecting wipes contain citric acid as their primary ingredient. This is highly acidic and weakens the seal on your countertop's surface leaving them vulnerable to stains and discoloration.

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