How to Clean Different Types of Surfaces

If you’re ready to freshen up your home but aren’t sure where to begin or what to use, this guide will walk you through how to clean different types of surfaces with the right supplies and methods. From glass and laminate to stainless steel and carpet, here’s a practical breakdown for tackling common household areas.

Acrylic or Laminated Surfaces

Acrylic and laminated finishes are common in both furniture and flooring. They’re attractive and durable – but can be prone to scratches and dulling if cleaned improperly.

How to Clean Acrylic or Laminated Surfaces

For furniture or cabinets, dust with a lightly damp microfiber cloth to avoid scratching.

Mix a Cleaning Solution

• 1 gallon warm water
• 1 teaspoon mild dish soap (like Ivory)
• Wipe gently with a soft cloth, rinse with clean water, and dry with a lint-free cloth.

For floors use a damp microfiber mop or a mop like a Swiffer (non-abrasive cleaner only). Avoid letting water pool or seep into seams, which can damage laminate over time.

Avoid:

• Dry dusting (which grinds dust into the surface)
• Abrasive cleaners or pads
• Ammonia-based cleaners like Windex or 409, which can dull the finish

Glass Surfaces (Mirrors, Tabletops, Decorative Items)

For glass surfaces, including mirrors, it’s best to avoid overspray and reduce streaking by spraying the cloth – not the surface.

DIY Glass Cleaner

• 1 cup rubbing alcohol
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar

How to use:

1. Add ingredients to a spray bottle and shake well.
2. Lightly spray a clean microfiber cloth.
3. Wipe the glass in circular or vertical motions for a streak-free finish.

How to Clean Fingerprints from Stainless Steel Surfaces

Stainless steel appliances and fixtures can look messy with fingerprints – but they’re easy to clean with basic household products.

Option 1: White Vinegar

• Dampen a soft cloth with vinegar.
• Wipe in the direction of the grain.
• Buff dry with a clean microfiber cloth.

Option 2: Baby Oil

• Add a few drops of baby oil to a cloth.
• Wipe with the grain to lift fingerprints.
• Buff with a dry, lint-free cloth for shine.

How to Clean a LCD TV or Computer Screen

Modern screens are delicate and require special care. Here’s how to clean different types of surfaces like LED, LCD, or OLED screens safely:

Before you clean:

• Turn off the screen and unplug the device.
• Let it cool completely. A cool screen is easier to clean and safer to wipe.

Supplies:

• Distilled water or a 50/50 mix of distilled water and 70% isopropyl alcohol
• Microfiber cloth (no paper towels or rough fabrics)
• Foam swab (for corners)

Steps:

1. Lightly dampen the microfiber cloth (do not spray directly on the screen).
2. Wipe gently with minimal pressure.
3. Use a foam swab for tight edges.
4. Buff dry with a clean section of the cloth.

Avoid:

• Ammonia-based cleaners (like Windex)
• Excess moisture
• Rubbing alcohol stronger than 70% or in high concentration

Freshen Up the Surface of Your Carpets

Want to freshen up a room before guests arrive? This simple carpet powder adds a fresh scent and absorbs odors.

DIY Carpet Freshener

• 1 cup baking soda
• 10 – 15 drops essential oil (e.g., lavender, pine, cinnamon)

Instructions:

1. Combine baking soda and essential oil in a jar.
2. Shake to mix.
3. Sprinkle lightly over carpets.
4. Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then vacuum.

Use a shaker lid or make one with construction paper and tape.

Cleaning Hard Floor Surfaces

Here’s how to clean different types of surfaces such as tile, vinyl, or linoleum:

General Floor Cleaner

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 gallon warm water

Instructions:

• Mop with a lightly damp mop.
• Avoid excess water to prevent damage.
• Dry with a towel or sh-mop to prevent spots and residue.

Note: Do not use vinegar on stone or marble floors – it can etch and damage them.

How to Clean Marble Surfaces

Marble is elegant but delicate. When cleaning this natural stone, you must avoid acidic or abrasive products that can permanently damage the surface.

Best Way to Clean Marble

• Use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for marble or natural stone. Alternatively, mix a few drops of mild dish soap (like castile soap) into 1 gallon of warm water.
• Use a soft mop or cloth – make sure it’s only lightly damp, not wet.
• Wipe the surface gently, then dry immediately with a clean towel or microfiber cloth to prevent water spots or streaks.

Important tips:

Clean up spills – especially from acidic substances like lemon juice, wine, or tomato sauce – immediately to prevent etching or staining.

Do not use:

• Vinegar
• Bleach
• Ammonia
• Abrasive pads or powders

Check if your marble is sealed. Unsealed marble is even more vulnerable and may need professional sealing to stay protected.

This gentle method ensures your marble stays shiny and beautiful while fitting into your broader routine of learning how to clean different types of surfaces.

Cleaning, Disinfecting, and Deodorizing with Bleach

Bleach can be an effective disinfectant, deodorizer, and stain remover – but only when used properly and on the right types of surfaces.

How to Use Bleach Safely

• Mix 1 tablespoon of regular bleach with 1 gallon of water for disinfecting.
• For a 32-ounce spray bottle: mix 1½ teaspoons bleach with water.
• Apply with a cloth or spray onto the surface (let sit for several minutes if disinfecting), then rinse and wipe dry.

Safe Surfaces for Diluted Bleach

• Non-porous countertops (laminate, sealed quartz – not natural stone)
• Ceramic or porcelain tile
• Bathtubs, toilets, and sinks
• Plastic garbage bins
• Sealed grout (test a small area first)
• Vinyl or linoleum flooring (no pooling; rinse after)

Do Not Use Bleach On

• Natural stone (marble, granite, slate) – bleach can etch and discolor
• Stainless steel – may cause corrosion or spotting over time
• Wood – even sealed wood can be damaged
• Fabrics – unless labeled safe for bleach
• Electronics and screens

Safety tips:

• Always use in a well-ventilated area.
• Wear gloves to protect skin.
• Never mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar, or other cleaners – it creates toxic fumes.

Used thoughtfully, bleach is a powerful tool in your cleaning toolkit. Just remember: it’s not for every surface. Knowing how to clean different types of surfaces means knowing when not to use bleach, too.

Common Cleaning Supplies

To clean your home and care for different types of surfaces, keep these essentials stocked:

• Bucket or cleaning tote
• Broom and dustpan
• Mop or sh-mop
• Vacuum
• Duster
• Microfiber cloths
• Cleaning rags and sponges

Knowing how to clean different types of surfaces makes the job easier and keeps your home looking its best. While this guide covers many common materials, always check manufacturer instructions for specialized surfaces.

Car and Household Cleaners