Maintaining ceramic and HPL tables

Check your garden table's specifications to see whether the top is made of ceramic, HPL, or another material. HPL stands for High Pressure Laminate. A stone or wood look does not in itself indicate what material lies beneath. Also, consult the furniture manufacturer's instructions: these pertain to the specific version and finish of your table.

The Golden Care training recommends Multi Surface Cleaner for cleaning both suitable ceramic and HPL. For the subsequent step, the manufacturer makes a distinction. HPL & Polywood Protector is intended for HPL and Polywood; for ceramic material, Stone Protector 500 ml is specified. Always verify this application on the bottle label itself and in the furniture advice.

Examine the tabletop before you begin. Do you see dirt, grease, or a stain, or does the finish itself appear damaged? A cleaning agent is useful for dealing with soiling. In the case of an unknown finish, a peeling top layer, or permanent damage, seek advice first. Always test any chosen product on a small, inconspicuous area.

Protect the workspace and use the personal protective equipment specified on the bottle. The Dutch Golden Care instructions describe Multi Surface Cleaner as ready-to-use. Apply the cleaner directly to the appropriate surface according to the label, after evaluating the material test.

The Dutch instructions state a three-minute contact time. Then, clean carefully with a suitable soft sponge or cloth, tailored to the tabletop and furniture advice. The cleaner is intended to remove dirt, grease, and stains. In case of deviating instructions, follow the label on your bottle.

Rinse with clean water as described in the instructions and repeat the cleaning if necessary according to the label. Let the tabletop dry completely before applying a suitable protective treatment. That dry surface is part of the next step, so plan the cleaning and protection sequentially at a measured pace.

Does a ring or mark remain visible? First assess whether it is still dirt and check the instructions for the tabletop. Specific lime removal is not confirmed in this Golden Care cleaning instruction. Therefore, do not switch to a descaler, acid, or a harsher abrasive on your own initiative. In case of doubt, ask for specific advice regarding the stain and the material.

For suitable HPL and Polywood: Golden Care HPL & Polywood Protector makes the surface water-repellent and helps prevent stains. Start with a clean, completely dry, and dust-free tabletop. Check the material test, the bottle label, and the maintenance advice for your table beforehand.

The Dutch instructions for HPL & Polywood Protector 500 ml specify an application temperature of 5 to 25 °C. Shake the bottle for at least one minute and apply a thin layer with a soft, lint-free cloth. According to those instructions, allow to dry for 30 minutes and then apply a second thin layer. If you have different instructions, follow the label on your specific bottle.

After the described treatment, the Dutch instructions specify 24 hours of drying before exposure to the weather. This waiting time applies to the HPL & Polywood Protector. Do not automatically apply it to a different bottle or treatment. For maintenance, these instructions recommend attending to tabletops twice a year, or more often if necessary. When performing the next treatment, assess again whether cleaning and preparation are required.

For ceramic: only choose a protective treatment if it is suitable for your tabletop and finish. In the information about Stone Protector 500 ml, Golden Care also mentions ceramic. That is a different product path than HPL & Polywood Protector. If necessary, have the application confirmed and follow the instructions for the appropriate product. You do not automatically need to include a ceramic table in the HPL treatment.

Continue to care for the table in between times according to the furniture advice and address spilled drinks, dirt, and stains in a timely manner. Use the label of your own treatment for the next maintenance session. A different recommendation may apply to the frame or base; for a metal frame, for example, follow the maintenance routine for aluminum and plastic.