Acrylic Countertop Repair

Dirt and Residue

• Unlike many countertop surfaces, acrylic can withstand the use of mild abrasive cleaners. The first attempt to clean dirt and residue should be done with a rag and warm, soapy water. A mild abrasive cleaner and a rag can remove hard-to-clean dirt. If residue is a result of hard-water stains, a lime scale and hard water cleaner will remove the residue.

Stains

• Acrylic countertops rarely stain because of the nonporous surface. For a light-colored acrylic countertop, use a spray bleach cleaner to penetrate the stain, then wipe it dry with a warm, dampened rag. For a dark-colored acrylic countertop, use an ammonia-based cleaner and gently rub the stain with the abrasive side of a double-sided sponge to remove the stain. Always wipe the surface with a rag dampened with warm water.

Cuts and Scratches

• Cuts and scratches on acrylic countertops can be repaired with general household items. Abrasive cleaning pads come in several colors for aggressive to soft abrasive cleaning, similar to types of sandpaper. Clean the cut or scratched area of the countertop with warm soapy water and dry it completely. Using the most abrasive cleaning pad, gently scrub the cut or scratched area, going in the direction of the cut or scratch. Randomly move the pad in a circular motion, then back to the direction of the scratch until the cut or scratch is removed. After the scratch is removed, you'll need to blend the area with the rest of the countertop because the scrubbed area’s surface will have a different appearance. Use a milder abrasive pad on the cut or scratch and it’s surrounding areas. Wipe the counter with a rag using warm, soapy water and dry it completely.

Damage Prevention and Routine Maintenance

• To avoid repairs to an acrylic countertop, never allow products such as acetone or paint stripper on the countertop. These products will damage almost any type of surface. Use a cutting board to cut food on the countertop. After using the countertop, wipe the surface with soapy water and a mildly abrasive pad. Dry the entire surface to ensure the removal of hard water and residue. To sanitize acrylic surfaces, use 1 teaspoon of bleach diluted with 1 gallon of water, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.