The Simple WD-40 Hack For Making Countertop Scratches Less Noticeable

Scratching up your countertops is one of those frustrating, all-too-common accidents, especially if you tend to forget to use a cutting board while prepping your meals – or skip that step altogether. Over time, even small scratches can add up, leaving your kitchen surfaces looking worn and tired. In some cases, depending on the material and severity of the damage, fixing those unsightly marks could cost you a pretty penny. The price for countertop scratch repair can run up to $800. In severe cases, you might even need to replace the entire countertop to get rid of the scratched-up look in your kitchen. However, if your countertop is made from the right kind of material, you might be able to reduce the visibility of those scratches using a common household staple you probably already have on hand — WD-40.

Most people think of WD-40 as a solution for loosening rusty bolts or quieting squeaky doors, but it actually has many other household uses. In fact, a can of WD-40 can ensure that your countertops are stain-free. While it might not erase scratches the same way it lifts stains, WD-40 can make chips and scuffs on your countertops appear less noticeable, depending on the surface. As a quick and inexpensive fix, it's worth trying.

This trick works best on non-porous countertop surfaces such as marble, ceramic, laminate, or linoleum. If you're not sure whether spraying WD-40 is a mistake that could damage your precious countertops, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. Once you confirm that treating the scratch with WD-40 won't do any harm to your kitchen, clean the countertop thoroughly to remove any debris or grease first. Next, spray a small amount of WD-40 onto a soft cloth and rub it over the scratch in gentle circles to buff it into the surface. You should notice the scratch becoming less visible immediately. Remember, this fix is only temporary and will not remove the scratch — it will just draw the attention away from it for the time being.

When using this method, avoid common WD-40 mistakes, such as overlooking the product's flammability. Never use it near an open flame, and if your stove is close to your countertops, make sure it's not hot while you're buffing the scratches. After applying WD-40, avoid preparing food directly on the treated area. Always use a cutting board to prevent both contamination and further scratches. With some simple precautions, this hack can safely extend the life — and look — of your countertops without the price tag of a full replacement.