Different kinds of materials are used to make casework based on where it’s going to be used. A laboratory will have different requirements than an educational setting. In a lab, casework may need to be extra resistant to heat and moisture, for example. As a result the cleaning requirements for casework will differ in different locations. An epoxy resin surface will need to be cleaned differently than a stainless steel surface.
So how do you know how to clean your casework? The best place to look is in the manufacturer’s warranty or owner’s manual. These official documents should serve as your primary source. But of course, there are general cleaning rules that are good to know. So in this week’s blog, we’re going to talk about how to clean different kinds of casework.
Learn how to clean all kinds of casework, below.
How to Clean Casework
Solid Surface
For solid surface casework, use a damp cotton cloth and mild soap and water. Ammonia-based cleaners can also be use. Abrasive cleaning products such as steel wool and scouring pads should be avoided. Any chemical spills should be immediately rinsed off with water and cleaned up in accordance with lab safety procedures.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel should be cleaned with a clean cotton cloth and mild soap with water or glass cleaner. Do not use anything abrasive such as steel wool or scouring pads which will scratch the steel.
Epoxy
Epoxy resins are used to coat work surfaces in laboratories. The are resistant to heat, flame, and moisture, and are also non-porous, making them ideal for demanding laboratory environments. They should be cleaned with a soft cotton cloth and mild soap and water. Acetone can also be used in accordance with directions on the packaging. Abrasive products should not be used.
It’s not uncommon for epoxy resin surfaces to lose their luster over time. To restore the luster, apply a finish oil with a soft cloth. Remove any excess oil with another clean cloth when you’re finished.
High Pressure Laminate (HPL)
A damp cloth and sponge with a mild detergent serves well for general cleaning. Non-abrasive cleaners such as window cleaners and isopropyl alcohol can also be used. Abrasive cleaners should be avoided. HPL that is exposed to bleach for an extended period of time can become discolored, so use bleach sparingly.
Phenolic
Pheonlic is a resin made from the organic compound phenol, which is mixed with an aldehyde to create a durable, non-porous resin. As with most surfaces, a soft cloth and mild detergent works for general cleaning purposes. Don’t use powdered cleaning agents. Also avoid abrasive cleaning agents.
A Cleaning Note
Before you use any cleaning method on casework, test it on a small area that is inconspicuous to make sure it does not damage the surface.
About Mahogany, Inc.
Mahogany, Inc. is a general contractor specializing in quality construction for projects across a wide range of industries. Located in southwest Baltimore, we employ 100 persons, and are one of the largest minority owned businesses in the state of Maryland. Make sure to check back with our blog every week for the latest industry related information. For more information, you can contact us at 410.727.0334, or email us. We look forward to hearing from you!