How to Keep Your Bathroom Counter Clean and Stylish

You struggle to keep your bathroom counter clean? And you are probably exhausted from cleaning it every time. Well, no worries; you’re at the right place.

It’s easier than you think it is. In fact, this comprehensive article will show you how to keep your bathroom counter clean AND stylish at the same time.

Let’s get started!

1. Your Bathroom Counter Material

Before we dive into the process, it’s important to understand the material of your bathroom counter. Because different materials require specific cleaning and care routines to preserve their beauty and functionality. And yes, trust me, there are differences.

So, in order to get a clean aesthetic, we need to discuss what exactly you need for your specific bathroom counter!

1.1 Granite Countertops

Granite is a popular choice for bathroom counters because of its durability and unique patterns. The natural stone of granite can handle heat well and is resistant to scratches.

However, granite is porous and can absorb liquids, which could lead to stains if not properly sealed. So, here are some tips for cleaning granite countertops:

1. Definitely use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for natural stone.
2. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners since they can damage the surface.
3. Wipe down the counter daily with a soft cloth and a mild cleaner.
4. Granite should be sealed regularly to maintain its stain resistance. To check if your granite needs sealing, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface. If it absorbs within a few minutes, it’s time to reseal!

1.2 Marble Countertops

Marble looks luxurious with its smooth, cool surface and elegant veining. I love it! However, marble is softer than granite and more susceptible to scratches, etching, and stains, especially from acidic substances. Make sure to

1. Use a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner and a soft cloth.
2. Avoid vinegar, lemon, or any acidic cleaners that can etch the marble.
3. Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining.
4. Marble also requires regular sealing to protect against stains! You can also perform the water drop test as with granite to determine if resealing is needed.

1.3 Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are engineered from crushed stone mixed with resin. And they are non-porous and easy to maintain, which makes them an excellent choice for busy bathrooms! Bonus: Quartz does not need to be sealed and is resistant to stains, making it a low-maintenance option. Some tips from me would be to

1. Simply wipe down with a mild detergent and water.
2. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, which can damage the surface.
3. A soft cloth or sponge is ideal for cleaning.

1.4 Laminate Countertops

Laminate is a more budget-friendly option that comes in a wide range of designs. While it’s easy to clean, it can definitely be damaged by heat and sharp objects. So I’d recommend to

1. Use a gentle cleaner and a soft cloth.
2. Avoid abrasive pads or cleaners that can scratch the surface.
3. Wipe up water quickly to prevent damage.

1.5 Tile Countertops

Tile countertops offer versatility in design, but they require attention to grout lines, which can stain and harbor mold. So, definitely

• Clean tiles with a mild cleaner and a soft brush to scrub the grout.
• For tougher stains, a baking soda paste can help.
• Seal the grout lines periodically to prevent stains and mold growth.

1.6 Solid Surface Countertops (e.g., Corian)

Solid-surface countertops are smooth and customizable. They are non-porous and can be easily repaired if scratched. So, make sure to

• Use soapy water or a mild household cleaner.
• Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.
• Minor scratches can be buffed out with a fine abrasive pad or polishing compound.

2. How to Keep Bathroom Counter Clean

It’s important to establish a daily cleaning routine for your counter. If you manage to stay disciplined and clean on a consistent basis, you’ll not have to deal with a cluttered and dirty counter.

I mean, cleaning a bathroom counter is a lot easier than some other areas in our homes. Here’s what you need to do:

2.1 Quick Wipe-Down

Try to add a quick wipe-down to your daily routine to keep your countertop clean and fresh. Our first room to head to in the morning is our bathroom. It’s a lot easier to clean when you are already present!

So, after your morning and evening routines, spend a minute or two wiping the counter with a damp cloth. Trust me, this simple step can remove toothpaste splatters, water stains, and dust, which makes a big difference in maintaining a clean surface.

Let me give you a quick step-by-step:

• Clear the Counter: Move any items off the counter temporarily.
• Wipe with a Damp Cloth: Use a cloth dampened with water or a mild cleaner to wipe down the surface.
• Dry the Surface: Use a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture and prevent water spots.

2.2 Managing Clutter

Who hasn’t been in that situation: you had to rush in the morning and had to get ready fast since you don’t have time, so you leave everything on your bathroom counter just to be on time. And when you come back from work, you are faced with all this clutter but you’re just too tired to take care of it.

This is a real struggle and doesn’t only affect one’s bathroom counter. What we fail to realize is that a cluttered home has huge effects on our mental well-being. No one feels content and relaxed in a cluttered home. So, the question is: how do we prevent that from happening?

I would say the easy route is to only keep the essentials on your bathroom counter. All other items can be stored in your drawers, cabinets, or organizers. And speaking of organizers, I would invest in some of them. Whether it’s trays, baskets, boxes, or specific organizers for specific items, you won’t regret buying them.

They’ll help you keep your bathroom counter clean. Even if you have a bad day and manage to make it look cluttered, the cleaning process will still be a lot easier and faster with the right storage solutions. And get rid of items and products you barely use or that have expired. Check that up on a regular basis so that clutter doesn’t accumulate again.

3. Weekly Deep Cleaning

Besides your daily wipe-outs, I’d recommend a weekly deep cleaning session because it helps keep your bathroom counter sparkling clean.

3.1 Products and Tools to Use

• Soft Cloths: Try to use microfiber cloths for more effective cleaning without scratching the surface of your countertop.
• Mild Cleaners: Go for pH-neutral or specially formulated cleaners for your countertop material (as we’ve discussed before.)
• Non-Abrasive Sponges: Ideal for scrubbing without causing damage.
• Polish or Sealer: Use these products as recommended for materials like granite and marble.

3.2 Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Process

1. The first step is to completely clear off your bathroom counter. This will allow you to clean every single space on there and ensure that everything is neat.
2. Then grab a soft cloth and start to dust the counter and its surrounding.
3. Then grab your appropriate cleaner and apply it to the surface. Let it sit for a couple of minutes.
4. Afterwards, get a soft sponge and gently start to scrub the counter and make sure you get the corners and edges!
5. The moment you feel satisfied with your work, start to rinse it off with water and dry it with your cloth. You want to prevent any water spots from appearing!

4. Organizing Your Counter

I’ve mentioned some storage solutions in this post, but we’ll dive a little deeper into them. Because a well-organized bathroom counter not only looks stylish but also makes your morning routine more efficient.

4.1 Storage Solutions

• Trays and Baskets

You can use trays for multiple items. Whether you want to use them to store your essential skin care products or perfumes, you have the choice! Just make sure to keep essentials on your bathroom counter and also put them on your tray, so that your bathroom counter stays organized.

If you have large and big items that need storage, then go for baskets! There are various basket sizes to choose from. Put them in there, and store your basket under your sink in your cabinets.

• Drawer Organizers

Drawer organizers are a game-changer. They aren’t expensive, and they keep your drawers clean and tidy. There are multiple sizes that you can buy.

The image pretty much shows what exactly can be organized with them, so we don’t need to elaborate on it.

• Wall-mounted Shelves

If you have limited counter space, then you might want to consider investing in a wall-mounted shelf to store your products. Or you can add a couple of them if you have enough space and also store bigger items like toiletries.

4.2 Decluttering Tips

I’d recommend you go through your items every few months to get rid of the ones that you barely use or that you find no purpose for anymore. And also check out if you have expired products! This will just help you maintain order.

And make sure to invest in multi-functional items, like a mirror with built-in storage. This will just give you more storage options and reduce the chance for clutter to accumulate.

If you stick to the routines and invest in these amazing storage solutions, I’ll guarantee you that your counter will be clean and tidy all the time.

5. Styling Your Counter

Now that we have cleaned our counters and organized everything into it’s rightful place, its time to decorate our counters!

A clear counter can look good, but adding a couple of decorative items can enhance your bathroom’s aesthetic.

5.1 Choosing the Right Accessories

• Soap Dispensers and Dishes

You can buy stylish soap dispensers and dish sets! Definitely pick ones that complement the aesthetic of your bathroom’s color scheme. My advice would be to lean toward ceramic or glass sets since they radiate elegance.

• Toothbrush Holders

You can also buy a soap dispenser set in combination with a matching toothbrush holder. I think there isn’t much to add, since the image speaks for itself. It looks stylish!

• Trays and Containers

We’ve mentioned trays before when we talked about storage solutions! But I wanted to mention that they also make your bathroom even more stylish. If you choose materials and colors that blend well with your countertop and overall bathroom decor, that will enhance your bathroom aesthetic even more.

• Plants

A great idea would be to add a plant to your bathroom counter. It not only looks good, but it also has a calming effect on you. You are very free when it comes to the selection, but I have an article on my blog that you’re every welcome to check out. It’s the “Top 15 Beautiful Plants for a Stylish Minimalist Bathroom“.

• Candles and Scents

If you want a more relaxing atmosphere, then add some candles to your bathroom counter. Everyone has different preferences when it comes to the scent, but if you want scents that are refreshing and proven to be relaxing, go for lavender or eucalyptus.

6. Maintaining Your Stylish Look

Keeping your bathroom counter stylish requires ongoing attention. You might want to decorate your bathroom counter based on the seasons to always have something new on there. My tips would be to

• Swap out accessories like soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, and trays to match the season. For example, use bright colors in summer and warmer tones in winter.
• Refresh your decorative items periodically. Replace flowers with seasonal blooms or change out decorative trays and containers for a new look.
• Use candles or diffusers with seasonal scents. Choose fresh, floral scents for spring and summer, and warm, spicy scents for fall and winter.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with regular cleaning and care, you may encounter some common issues with your bathroom counter. Here’s how to address them effectively:

7.1 Stain Removal

• Determine the type of stain and its source. Common stains include makeup, hard water, and soap scum.
• For makeup stains, use a gentle cleanser or makeup remover. For hard water stains, a vinegar solution can help. Soap scum can be tackled with a mild abrasive cleaner.
• Always test cleaners in an inconspicuous area before using them on the entire surface to ensure they don’t cause damage.

7.2 Preventing Damage

•  Use coasters, trivets, and cutting boards to protect your counter from heat and scratches. And avoid placing hot hair tools or sharp objects directly on the surface!
• For natural stone countertops like granite and marble, regular sealing is essential to protect against stains and etching.
• And don’t forget to use gentle, pH-neutral cleaners and avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.

Conclusion

Remember, the key is to develop habits and practices that work for you. Whether it’s a quick daily wipe-down, a weekly deep clean, or seasonal updates, consistency is crucial. And make sure to combine practical cleaning strategies with creative styling ideas to achieve a bathroom counter that is both clean and chic!

This guide has hopefully helped you create a perfect strategy on how to keep your bathroom counter clean AND stylish. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and ideas with us!

We all can benefit from them!