How to Make Kitchen Countertops Shine

The techniques that keep granite countertops shiny differ from tile or other surfaces.

Shiny countertops make a kitchen look clean and ready for the next big meal. But the method to clean them -- then make them shine -- depends upon the materials in the countertop. One method does not fit them all. From laminate to granite countertops, applying the right cleaning techniques can give your countertops back their shine.

Solid Surface Shine

Solid-surfaced countertops made from polyester and acrylics do not require a lot of maintenance to make them look clean and shiny unless the countertop has a matte or semigloss finish to begin with. Apply ammonia-based cleaners or a teaspoon of mild dish soap mixed with water to clean and shine the surface. Avoid cleaners that contain residues, which could cloud the surface of the countertop.

Polished Rock

Marble and granite countertops contain a natural shine to them after they are polished. You do need to seal the countertop to prevent oil or food stains impregnating the surface. Carbonated beverages, fruit juices and other natural acids can eat away at the surface of marble if they are left in place. A steam cleaner gets both surface types super clean; otherwise, a few squirts from a pH-balanced dishwashing liquid mixed with a quart of water does the job. Add 1/4 cup of isopropyl alcohol to the mixture for shiny and germ-free countertops. Reapply the sealant yearly.

Ceramic Tiles Big or Small

Kitchen countertops made from ceramic tiles require regular upkeep to protect the grout and tiles from appearing grungy. After cleaning, seal the grout to protect it from stains and excessive wear. For standard tile cleaning without leaving a film, add 1/4 cup of white vinegar to 1 gallon of warm water, but increase the vinegar to a full cup if the tile countertop appears dull. Clean the entire surface, rinsing with clean water. Finish up with a wipe down of club soda to make the tiles shine.

Laminate Countertops

Although not as durable as other countertop surfaces, laminate is an inexpensive choice to costlier countertop surfaces. Protect your laminate countertop by chopping or cutting items on a cutting board rather than directly on the surface. Clean the surface with a few squirts of mild detergent mixed in a bowl of warm water, then wipe down with a clean cloth. Rinse with another cloth and wipe it dry. Do not allow water to flood the surface of laminate or get near seams, as this can cause the material to swell. Do not use over-the-counter cleaners that contain residues, as these can leave a streaked finish on the surface.