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How to Maintain Your Kitchen Counters
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 Granite: clean with warm water or diluted dish soap, and dry immediately to prevent watermarks. If oil seeps in, use a nontoxic degreaser like Simple Green. Use a water-based sealer annually.
Marble: apply a nontoxic water-based sealer every six months. Use a mild detergent for general cleaning, and hydrogen peroxide for deeper stains. Concrete: wax monthly to protect against stains and use a food-safe sealer annually. Soapstone: coat with mineral oil every few months. No sealer required.
Laminates: clean with mild detergent and nylon-bristled brush; rinse and dry.
Butcher Block: seal, and clean with warm water and soap. White vinegar and water (50/50) can be used to remove stains. Oil periodically with penetrating or mineral oil.
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5 Tips for Selecting a Stainless Steel Sink
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 Go with a heavier gauge metal. Lower is better; 16 to 18 gauge is good and less prone to denting. - Standard kitchen sink depth is 8", but you may want to go to 9 or 10" if countertop space is limited. Rectangular shapes with straight sides, square corners and flat bottoms hold the most volume
- Look for undercoating and pads, which soften the sound of running water and clattering silverware
- Choose a 300 series sink, which means that it contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel for optimal resistance to corrosion and stains. Also, select a satin finish, which develops a better patina over time than a matte finish.
- Select a back drain, which provides more room for dishes to drain, and more room in the below-sink cabinet
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HOW TO....
 | | How to Install a Glass Mosaic Tile Backsplash |
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