How to Clean and Care for Your Glass and Stone Surfaces
Glass splashbacks and stone surfaces are designed to last and built to look great doing it. They are also surprisingly easy to care for once you know what to use and what to avoid. Here are the questions we get asked most often, with straight answers.
DGW Stone and Glass Care Guide
Glass Splashbacks
How do I clean my glass splashback day to day?
A soft microfibre cloth with warm water and a small amount of dishwashing liquid is all you need for everyday cleaning. Wipe down, then buff dry with a clean cloth to avoid water marks. That is all it takes for a surface that sees normal cooking splatter.
How do I remove grease from a glass splashback?
For heavier grease build-up from cooking, spray a small amount of white vinegar or a gentle kitchen degreaser onto the surface and leave it for a minute or two before wiping clean. Avoid anything abrasive and stay away from steel wool or scouring pads, which will scratch the surface permanently.
How do I get rid of streaks on a glass splashback?
Streaks are almost always caused by product residue or water minerals left on the glass. Buff the surface with a dry microfibre cloth after cleaning to pick up any remaining moisture. A small amount of white vinegar diluted in water works well as a streak-free finishing spray.
How do I make my glass splashback shiny again?
If your splashback has lost its shine over time, a glass polish or dedicated glass cleaner applied with a soft cloth will restore the lustre. Work in small circular sections and buff to a finish. Avoid furniture polish or wax-based products, as these leave a film that dulls the surface rather than enhancing it.
What should I never use on a glass splashback?
Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, steel wool and any product containing bleach. These will scratch or dull the surface and can affect the painted backing on coloured glass splashbacks. Stick to soft cloths and gentle cleaning solutions and your splashback will look as good as the day it was installed.
Stone Benchtops and Splashbacks
How do I clean my stone benchtop or splashback day to day?
Warm water and a soft cloth or sponge with a small amount of pH-neutral dish soap is the safest and most effective everyday option. Wipe spills as they happen rather than letting them sit, particularly with anything acidic like lemon juice, vinegar or tomato-based sauces.
How do I remove red wine from a stone surface?
Act quickly. Blot the spill rather than wiping it, as wiping spreads the stain further into the surface. Once you have absorbed as much as possible, clean the area with warm soapy water. For a stain that has already dried, a paste made from bicarbonate of soda and water applied to the area and left for 10 to 15 minutes before wiping away can help lift the residue without damaging the surface.
How do I remove grease or oil from a stone benchtop?
A small amount of dishwashing liquid applied directly to the affected area and left for a few minutes will help break down oil and grease. Wipe clean with a warm damp cloth. For persistent grease staining, a specialist stone degreaser is worth having on hand, particularly in a kitchen that sees heavy daily use.
How do I remove a dried or stubborn stain from stone?
For tough stains that have set into the surface, a poultice made from bicarbonate of soda mixed with hydrogen peroxide to form a thick paste is a reliable option. Apply it over the stain, cover with plastic wrap and leave for several hours or overnight. Remove, wipe clean and repeat if needed. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.
Does sintered stone need sealing?
No. Sintered stone such as Dekton is non-porous, which means it does not absorb liquids and does not require sealing. This is one of its biggest practical advantages over natural stone. Regular cleaning with warm soapy water is all the maintenance it needs.
What should I never use on stone surfaces?
Avoid bleach, strong acids, vinegar-based cleaners and anything abrasive. Products containing hydrofluoric acid or high-pH alkaline cleaners can etch the surface over time. Always read the label before using a new cleaning product on stone and when in doubt, stick to warm water and mild dish soap.
Mirror Splashbacks
How do I clean a mirror splashback?
A microfibre cloth lightly dampened with water or a small amount of glass cleaner is the best approach. Wipe in broad strokes and buff dry immediately to prevent water spots. Mirror splashbacks show marks more readily than tinted or painted glass, so a quick wipe after cooking makes a noticeable difference.
How do I remove water spots and soap residue from a mirror splashback?
A solution of equal parts white vinegar and water sprayed onto the surface and buffed off with a dry microfibre cloth works well for water spots and soap film. Avoid getting moisture into the edges of the mirror where it meets the wall, as prolonged moisture exposure can affect the mirror backing over time.
A Quick Note on Products to Avoid Across the Board
No matter which surface you have in your home, there are a few products worth keeping out of your cleaning kit altogether. These include bleach-based cleaners, ammonia, abrasive scrubbing pads, steel wool and any spray that leaves a waxy residue. The right product makes maintenance easier and protects your investment for years to come.
If you have a question about a specific product or stain, our team is happy to help. Get in touch and we will point you in the right direction for your stone and glass care!