Laminate is designed for beauty and durability. Like any surfacing materials, however, it can be damaged by abuse and carelessness. When you use it where recommended and care for it properly, it will give you years of satisfaction.

Protecting the Surface
Before selecting the surface material, consider the type of use it will receive, as well as its texture, color, and reflective values. A rough-textured surface has different advantages, depending upon use, than a smooth-textured surface. High gloss finish laminates, for example, are not recommended for use in heavy-duty applications such as countertops.

Scratch and Impact Protection
Formica brand laminate is resistant to scratches and impacts under normal use conditions.
Use cutting boards, chopping blocks, or other protective surfaces.

Do not chop, slice, pound, or hammer on any laminate surface.
Knives or other sharp utensils may slice or scratch the surface.
Heavy blows from a hammer or meat tenderizer may crack or gouge the surface.
Use place mats, doilies, and trivets on laminate surfaces when necessary.
Ceramics and abrasive objects can cause scratching and premature wear - do not slide these items across surface.
Follow recommendations for cleaning - do not use abrasive cleaners, powders, steel wool, sandpaper, or Scotch-Brite® scouring pads (see Cleaning section).

Hot Objects
Cookware still hot from the stove or oven, as well as electric skillets, waffle irons, curling irons, and hot rollers, should not be placed directly on laminate surfaces. Prolonged exposure to temperatures of 140°F (60°C) or higher may cause the laminate to separate from the core material.

Use a trivet, insulated hot pad or other protective device beneath all hot cookware, heat generating appliances, or other heated objects.

Most laminate can withstand heat up to 275°F (135°C) for short periods of time.
Avoid ironing or placing a hot iron on laminate surfaces. Do not place lighted cigarettes directly on laminate surfaces.

Ordinary Cleaning
Laminate is very easy to clean.

In most cases, you only need to use a clean, damp, nonabrasive cotton cloth and a mild liquid detergent or household cleaner.
Rinse with clean water, using a clean, nonabrasive cotton cloth.
Do not flood the laminate, especially near seams, since water can penetrate and cause the substrate to swell.
Dry the surface with a soft, clean, nonabrasive cotton cloth.

Periodic application of a self-cleaning wax can help minimize future staining.

Solid Surface Care

Routine daily care and maintenance of Corian® is easy. But, because cleaning practices differ around the world, please consult your local supplier of Corian® for specific recommended care and maintenance practices and products. Use the following procedures as a guide to everyday care for Corian® solid surfaces:

There are three types of countertop finishes: matte, semigloss and gloss.*

All Corian® sinks have the matte finish.

Soapy water or ammonia-based cleaners will remove most dirt and stains from all types of finishes.

However, slightly different techniques must be used to remove difficult stains, depending on the finish.