Stone Bench Tops are easy to keep clean. You won’t need any specialist equipment or sprays. Here’s my guide to cleaning a stone bench top.
What Should You Use to Clean a Stone Bench Top
While stone companies will be quick to sell your specialty cleaners, the reality is you definitely don’t need anything special to clean a stone bench top. The best thing to use is a mild dishwashing detergent diluted in warm (not boiling) water.
I’ve found that cleaning all types of stone bench tops using just dishwashing detergent and warm water leaves benches clean and won’t damage the surface. If there are any dried on materials on the bench don’t use an abrasive cleaner or scrubbing brush. Definitely don’t use steel wool. Something like a scrub daddy is best as it will remove the material but damage the surface.
How to Clean a Stone Bench Top
- Fill a bowl or sink with a squirt of dishwashing liquid and warm water
- Wipe down the surface of the bench with the soapy water. I like to use a Swedish dish cloth but any kitchen cloth will work.
- Rinse out the cloth with water and then wipe over the bench again. This will help reduce any build up of soap.
That’s it!
If you want to avoid any water marks, you can go over the bench top with a microfibre cloth or dry Swedish Cloth to wipe up any residual water. I’ve found you can also use a window vacuum to go over the surface, provided it’s not too dirty.
How to Remove Stains from Stone Bench Tops
The best way to prevent stains on stone bench tops is to make sure you wipe up any spilt mess as soon as it occurs. Obviously this isn’t always possible and stains might occur. The type of stone and the type of finish will determine how stain resistant your bench top is.
To remove stains a mixture of bicarb and water can be used. Don’t use any abrasive scrubbers. Stone bench tops can be scratched and damaged. If a stain has set, don’t worry too much. I’ve found that almost all stains on stone bench tops tend to fade overtime so it’s not the end of the world.
Can You Use Vinegar to Clean Stone Bench Tops?
It’s best not to use vinegar to clean a stone bench top. Vinegar is highly acidic and could cause damage to the stone. Furthermore vinegar is not a surfactant – it’s unable to wipe up grease and oil which is common on bench tops. So it’s best to steer clear of vinegar and just use a mild dishwashing detergent instead.
