How to Repair Scratch Marks in a Bathroom Vanity Countertop

Cultured Marble

1. Use newspaper and painter's tape to protect any surfaces you don't want splattered. Don't forget the faucet and handles.

2. Wet sand the countertop with 1,000-grit sandpaper. Don't press too hard or you will break through the gel coat that seals the surface of the vanity top. Rinse off the countertop and dry it thoroughly.

3. Use Meguiar's Medium-Cut Cleaner (or a similar product) and your power buffer or hand buffer to smooth out any remaining scratches and give the counter a fresh shine.

4. Apply a generous amount of marble polish to the countertop, and rub it in with a clean shop cloth. Let it dry until it is opaque, and then buff it with clean paper towels for an extra layer of protection.

Laminate and Vinyl

1. Use an abrasive cleanser like Ajax to "sand" fine scratches out of Dupont Corian, and then go back to cleaning it with a gentle cleanser.

2. Use tinted vinyl sealer (found at flooring shops) to repair large scratches in vinyl. If you cannot find vinyl sealer, use silicon caulk, either in a color that matches your countertop or clear. The latter won't hide the scratch, but it will keep water from soaking through and damaging the wood underneath the vinyl.

3. Wipe down the countertop thoroughly with a damp cloth or sponge.

Granite

1. Fill deep scratches (any that are deep enough for a fingernail to fit into) with epoxy tinted to match the granite. You can get this at home improvement stores. Let it dry according to the manufacturer's guidelines.

2. Use your wet grinder to buff the epoxy and the area just surrounding it. Use very light pressure so you don't damage the granite.

3. Clean away any dust with a soft, damp shop cloth.