Laminate Table Top Care Instructions

Cleaning Tips

Please see notes of caution below before attempting cleaning

1. To clean the laminate table top surface surface, use a damp cloth or sponge and a mild soap or detergent. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and wipe dry.
2. Difficult stains such as coffee or tea can be removed using a mild household cleaner/detergent and a soft bristled brush, repeating as necessary.
3. If a stain persist, use a paste of baking soda and water and apply with a soft bristled brush. Light scrubbing for 10 to 20 strokes should remove most stains. Although baking soda is a low abrasive, excessive scrubbing or exerting too much force could damage the decorative surface, especially if it has a gloss finish.
4. Stubborn stains that resist any of the above cleaning methods may require the use of undiluted household bleach or nail polish remover. Apply the bleach or nail polish remover to the stain and let stand no longer than two minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and wipe dry. This step may be repeated if the stain appears to be going away and the color of the laminate has not been affected. WARNING: Prolonged exposure of the laminate surface to bleach will cause discoloration.
5. Hot pans and heat-producing appliances (such as electric skillets), when set directly upon countertops, can mar the product's beauty. Always use a heat shield, hot pad or trivet.

Damaging Cleaners

Cleaners that can cause damage to the laminate surface include, but are not limited to:

• Hydrochloric Acid
• Muriatic Acid
• Hydrogen Chloride
• Sulfuric Acid
• Oleic Acid
• Oil of Vitriol
• Oleum
• Hydrofluoric Acid
• Rust Remover
• Phosphoric Acid
• Sodium Hydroxide
• Caustic Soda
• Caustic Lye
• Soda Lye
• Pumice (abrasive)

Notes of Caution

1. Prolonged exposure of the laminate surface to acetone or bleach will cause discoloration. Always rinse laminate surface after cleaning. Failure to rinse after cleaning can cause damage, even if only a small amount of cleaning solution remains on the surface. A dry residue may be invisible, however moisture from cups or drinks can reactivate it and result in permanently etched scars or stains over time.
2. Acidic or abrasive cleaners can damage laminate surfaces – do not use them.
3. Drain cleaners containing lye will permanently damage the laminate surface. If you spill drain cleaner, wipe it up immediately and rinse several times with water.
4. Hair, textile and food dyes can cause permanent stains. If dye is spilled, wipe up immediately with dishwashing detergent or an all-purpose cleaner.
5. Never place pots or dishes directly from the oven or burner on an unprotected laminate surface; such extreme heat can cause cracking or blistering.
6. Do not work with oven cleaners on an unprotected laminate top. Wipe spills away promptly and rinse several times with water.
7. Rust removers contain harsh chemicals which will quickly cause permanent damage. If a spill occurs, wipe off all residue immediately, wash thoroughly with soapy water and rinse several times.
8. Steel wool and other abrasive pads will damage the laminate surface. Do not use them for cleaning and do not store steel wool pads on your laminate; the metal can rust and leave stains.
9. Toilet bowl cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can cause permanent damage. If spills occur, wipe up immediately, wash the surface with soapy water and rinse several times.
10. Remember, sharp objects can damage the surface of any laminate: marring its beauty and lowering wear and stain resistance. Although high-pressure laminates are somewhat resistant to scratching, the surface can be damaged even under normal use. Laminate may need occasional dusting depending on where it is used. To keep the surface beautiful, use an oil free furniture spray. Remember to clean the spray off several times a year to prevent build up. Furniture polish may also help hide fine scratching in the surface.