Maintenance and Care Tips for Solid Surface Material

Solid Surface Material (SSM) is widely used in kitchen countertops, bathroom counters, wall coverings, furniture surfaces, etc. due to its seamlessness, ease of repair, and durability. However, in order to maintain its long-lasting beauty and service life, proper maintenance and care is essential. Here are some effective maintenance and care tips.

1. Daily Cleaning

Daily cleaning is the key to keeping Solid Surface Material looking as good as new. Cleaning the surface with warm water and neutral soap is the easiest way to maintain it. Wipe the countertop with a soft cloth or sponge, and avoid using cleaners that contain strong acids or alkalis to avoid damaging the surface luster. For stubborn stains, wipe gently with a cloth dipped in cleaner and then rinse well with water.

2. Avoid scratches

Although Solid Surface Material has a certain degree of scratch resistance, care should be taken to avoid scratches in order to extend its service life. When cutting vegetables or using sharp tools, be sure to use a cutting board and do not cut food directly on the countertop. At the same time, you should avoid dragging metal utensils and heavy objects directly on the surface to avoid leaving scratches.

3. Prevent Heat Damage

Although Solid Surface Material is heat resistant, direct contact with hot objects may cause surface damage or discoloration. Therefore, it is recommended to use heat insulating mats or pot holders when placing hot items such as hot pots and kettles. In addition, avoid placing overheated appliances (e.g., water boilers, fryers) directly on the countertop.

4. Handling stains and chemicals

For various stains that you may encounter in daily life (e.g. coffee, tea stains, red wine, etc.), you should clean them up as early as possible to avoid penetration into the surface. If the stains are more stubborn, they can be cleaned with warm water and an amino cleaner (e.g. glass cleaner). When using, wipe gently with a soft cloth, do not use hard brushes or steel wool balls to avoid scratching the surface.

For some chemicals, such as nail polish, paint, hair dye, etc., should be avoided contact with the countertop. Once accidentally contacted, need to immediately rinse with water and wipe clean. If you use a cleaner that contains chemicals, be sure to wipe it off thoroughly with water after cleaning.

5. Periodic Polishing

To maintain the luster and smooth texture of Solid Surface Material, it can be polished periodically. Use micro-scrub or special Solid Surface Polishing Compound and gently polish with a soft cloth in a circular motion. For deeper scratches or abrasions, consider having them repaired and polished by a professional.

6. Repairing Small Imperfections

A significant advantage of Solid Surface Material is its ease of repair. For minor scratches or burns, the damaged area can be lightly sanded with fine sandpaper (e.g., 320 grit), followed by washing with water and polishing the surface with a polish. For larger cracks or breaks, you can contact a professional repairer to fix them.

7. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight

Despite the durability of Solid Surface Material, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight may cause color fading or surface deterioration. Therefore, when using it outdoors, it is recommended to take appropriate protective measures or try to avoid installing it in a location under direct sunlight.

Proper maintenance and care can significantly extend the service life of Solid Surface Material and maintain its beauty and utility. With routine cleaning, damage prevention, timely treatment of stains and regular polishing, Solid Surface Material can be kept in like-new condition for many years to come, adding lasting beauty to your home and business environment.