When countertops get dirty, why does it seem that they are so difficult to clean? Bathroom and kitchen countertops can now come in a variety of different materials that are going to need different types of handling. For example, you are not going to clean granite countertops the same way that you do laminate countertops, not to mention trying to get stains out of quartz countertops. If you tried to clean all these different materials the same way, you would soon find yourself with a bigger mess (both physically and financially) than you would ever want. Before beginning your next cleaning assignment, take a look inside here for some inexpensive and efficient ideas for cleaning your countertops.

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   Cleaning a Corian Countertop
The specific color of your Corian countertop may require more frequent cleaning than other colors. Even with proper care, over time the finish of your countertop will change when it acquires a patina. You can easily restore the original finish of your Corian countertop by following a few simple, manufacturer-recommended steps.

   Cleaning Cultured Marble Countertops
Cultured marble is a breeze to clean compared with real marble, but it is very soft and can scratch easily. Use the following tips as you clean your countertops so that they will look great for the long run.

   Cleaning Granite
Granite can be a beautiful addition to your home. Read here for information on how to clean it without hurting it.

   Cleaning Granite Countertops
While granite is a natural, tough, non-porous stone, you still need to follow specific guidelines when cleaning your granite countertops. Make sure that your granite countertops are properly sealed, cleaned often, and not abused, and they will serve you well for many years.

   Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Do you have quartz countertops or are interested in having them installed in your home? This surface is quickly becoming more and more popular, and with good reason. Quartz is durable, easy to maintain and simple to clean.

   Iron Burnt Counters
If you have ever had an iron burnt counter, then you know how ugly and disgusting it can look. Instead of paying an arm and a leg though to get a new laminated countertop, why not fix the problem your self? It's surprisingly easy, as long as you know what you need to do.

   Polishing Corian
Corian is a beautiful manmade material that many homeowners and home builders are starting to use more and more. Part of the reason for this is that it is long lasting, relatively inexpensive, and easy to care for. With a little routine care and regular polishing, Corian will last virtually forever and look as good as new. Polishing Corian is probably the most difficult part of your maintenance program, and is something that anyone can do, if they simply know how.

   Remove Permanent Marker from Counters and Appliances
Permanent marker isn't as permanent as one might think. Alcohol on a paper towel will absorb permanent marker from a variety of surfaces.

   Removing Stains from Countertops
Countertops are difficult to clean once a stain has set into the surface, because most countertops are made of porous materials. You will need something to absorb the spill out of the pores, like a wad of paper towels. Just add the right chemical to this wad of paper towels and pull the stain out. The chemical you need to use will vary from stain to stain. Make sure to seal your counter to prevent similar stains in the future.

   Removing Wine Stains from Stone Countertops
Stains in stone countertops can usually be lifted out with a stone cleaner or a mild detergent and some warm water. For tougher stains a paste made from Oxy-Clean and water left to dry on the spot will extract the stain and not harm the counter. You can also use a poultice to get rid of the stain, or call your installer for some other hints.

   Removing Wine Stains from Tile Countertops
Wine stains quickly and should be cleaned immediately with warm soapy water. A solution of water, peroxide, and soap applied directly on the stain and left tot sit for an hour will lift the stain out of most tiles and grout, a darker stain may need a couple applications. Getting the stain out of grout may call for a little scrubbing but with the solution it should come out.

   Streak Free Granite Countertops
Granite is among one of the most popular materials for countertops in today's homes. Part of the reason is that these countertops can dramatically increase the value of a home. Use these simple methods to help ensure that you have streak-free granite countertops the next time you clean..

   Use Club Soda for Sparkling Countertops
Countertops become dull and stained after years of use. This tip, which recommends using club soda to add sparkle back to your countertops after cleaning them, is a great way to renew the look of your kitchen. Abrasives and scrubbing can only make your counter look duller, but club soda helps to clean you counter and keep its shine.