How to Remove Stains From Formica

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Things You'll Need

  • Household cleaner

  • Cotton cloths

  • Denatured alcohol

  • Baking soda

Formica is a laminate product used as a surface material, and it is commonly found on kitchen countertops. According to Formica, everyday cleaning of its products usually requires a nonabrasive rag and mild dish detergent. You can also use a nylon-bristle brush in circular motions to remove hard-to-clean messes such as sticky syrup. However, messes that stain Formica require a bit more work since you must bring them to the surface for removal.

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Step 1

Spray the stains with a mild household cleaner recommended by Formica, such as Fantastic All Purpose Cleaner or Formula 409. Wait two to three minutes and then blot the stain with a damp cotton cloth. Rinse with a clean, wet cloth.

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Step 2

Clean the stains with the mild household cleaners every day or two. Over time, some stains, such as coffee, tea and food coloring, will disappear. Note that some stains, such as newsprint, food-pricing inks and pen marks, may never disappear.

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Step 3

Pour a little bit of denatured alcohol, available at most home-improvement stores, on the stain and let it sit for two to three minutes. Then, blot the stain with a wet rag and rinse with a clean wet rag. Always use denatured alcohol according to manufacturer directions.

Step 4

Clean stains such as hair dyes and peroxides with a paste made from baking soda and water. Dab the paste on the stain and let it sit for approximately 10 minutes to give it time to draw out the stain. Then, wipe the paste up with a wet rag. Rinse the Formica with a wet, damp rag.

Warning

Always read the user manual for your Formica product for its specific care.

Use caution with denatured alcohol; it’s flammable.

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