Countertops are expensive and the last thing you want to do is damage them.  Whether you have ink stains or other marks from regular use, these tips will solve 99.9% of any stains you get on your countertops!

What is engineered stone?

Engineered stone is a non-porous material made of crushed stone bound together by an adhesive to create a solid surface.

I personally love engineered stone and have it in my own home.  It is very easy to clean, costs less than other materials, and is ideal for heavy use.  

What NOT to do

DO NOT USE countertop polish or oils. Since engineered stone is non-porous, polishes and oils won’t be absorbed into the countertop.  This will leave a grimey, greasy surface on top.

How to clean engineered stone

For regular everyday use stains (spilled wine, soup, spaghetti sauce, etc) use the following instructions:

What You Need:

1. A regular sponge with a soft-sided brillo pad
2. Mild dish soap

Gently use the sponge and dish soap together to wipe the counter.  Since engineered stone is non-porous it will not have leeched into the surface and the stain will be right on top.  You don’t have to use a lot of elbow grease to clean it up.  Often times I will actually just use a soft dish towel and warm water and it comes off easily.  

For pencil, ink, crayon, etc stains use the following instructions:

What You Need:

1. Small can of full-strength acetone (Available at Home Depot or Lowes)
2. Small toothbrush
3. Soft towel

Pour a small amount of acetone directly on the stain.  Use a small toothbrush or soft towel to gently rub the marks off.  

Acetone is used to clean countertops in the shop during fabrication and it will not harm your countertops.  When we are fabricating the granite or engineered stone we wipe down the surfaces before we add the epoxy.  Make sure you use full-strength acetone, and not nail polish remover as they are not the same.

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