How to Polish Laminate Countertops

Written By
Kaye Morris
Kaye Morris
Published: Oct 31, 2009
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Laminate is a durable surface but can be damaged with improper cleaning, or if spills or food residue are allowed to sit on the countertops without cleaning. Many commercial cleaning products can damage or dull the finish, but you can restore your laminate countertops to their original shiny finish by polishing them.

Things You Will Need

  • Dishwashing liquid
  • Quart-size spray bottle
  • Soft cloth
  • Vinegar (optional)
  • Lemon oil or car wax
  1. Pour 1/4 cup dishwashing liquid into a quart-size spray bottle and fill the remainder of the bottle with warm water.

  2. Shake the spray bottle to mix the contents and spray the cleaning solution onto the laminate countertops.

  3. Rub the countertops with a soft cloth to remove dirt and stains. If some stains are stubborn and do not lift with regular cleaning, dampen the end of a soft cloth with vinegar and rub the stains until you’ve removed them.

  4. Place a small amount of lemon oil or car wax on the end of a soft cloth.

  5. Buff the countertops with the oil or wax until they shine. Buffing should also remove fine scratches from the laminate.

The Drip Cap

  • Laminate countertops are a popular choice of home builders and homeowners due to the variety of selection, the ease of installation, and a price that’s significantly lower than other countertop options.
  • Laminate is a durable surface but can be damaged with improper cleaning, or if spills or food residue are allowed to sit on the countertops without cleaning.
  • Shake the spray bottle to mix the contents and spray the cleaning solution onto the laminate countertops.
Kaye Morris

Kaye Morris has over four years of technical writing experience as a curriculum design specialist and is a published fiction author. She has over 20 years of real estate development experience and received her Bachelor of Science in…

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