How to Maintain and Clean Your Acrylic Benchtop

Acrylic solid surface benchtops are popular across Otago not only for their sleek appearance but also for their practicality.

With simple, consistent care, these surfaces can stay looking new for many years.

Here’s a quick guide for homeowners on maintaining and cleaning their acrylic benchtop:

Everyday cleaning for busy kitchens

For daily cleaning, warm water and a mild household detergent are usually sufficient. A soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge is ideal for wiping down surfaces, including integrated upstands, drainer grooves, and undermounted sinks. Because acrylic is non-porous, spills and stains do not penetrate the surface, making it forgiving in busy kitchens and bathrooms.

Regular wiping after meal prep helps maintain the benchtop’s polished finish and prevents any build-up of food residue or water marks, particularly around sinks and drainer grooves.

Heat and scratch protection

Acrylic solid surface is durable but not heat-proof. Always use trivets for hot pots and pans. Direct cutting on the surface is not recommended; cutting boards will protect both your benchtop and your knives.

These simple precautions prevent damage and prolong the lifespan of your surface. McGrath Benchtop customers are given complementary chopping boards to match their benchtop.

Handling scratches and surface wear

Even with care, light scratches may appear over time. The great advantage of acrylic solid surface is that minor scratches and wear can usually be repaired or refinished, restoring the surface to its original condition. This repairability is a key benefit over granite or other natural stone, where chips and cracks are permanent.

Please note that for warranty purposes, McGrath Benchtops only provide this service for customers who have purchased a benchtop through the company. If you have an acrylic solid surface benchtop that needs to be repaired or refinished, we recommend getting in contact with the company who originally supplied your benchtop.

Choosing safe cleaning products

Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or solvent-based products, which can damage the finish. If you want to use a commercial cleaner, select one recommended for acrylic surfaces and test it on a small, hidden area first.

Did you know?

Even spills like nail polish can be removed with a quick wipe of nail polish remover.

Watch our short demonstration video to see just how easy it is to clean off!

Short demonstration video showing how easily nail polish can be removed from an acrylic solid surface benchtop.

Long-term care and value

By following these simple steps - regular wiping, heat protection, and careful handling - your acrylic benchtop can remain a stylish and practical part of your kitchen for decades. For Otago homeowners, this low-maintenance yet durable solution makes acrylic solid surface an excellent investment.

Have questions about maintaining your acrylic benchtop, or need professional advice on refinishing?

Contact McGrath Benchtops for expert support and guidance.