• Use only soft sponges and cloths to clean Corian countertops.green sponge texture image by Maxim Petrichuk from Fotolia.com
  
  Corian is a solid-surface countertop material produced by DuPont. It can mimic natural stone, but costs less and requires less careful care. It's still possible to damage a Corian countertop by using the wrong cleaning products. Glass cleaners and some all-purpose cleaners can dull the finish of a Corian counter, according to DuPont. Abrasive cleaners may leave scratches. Using the right cleaning products on your Corian counter can allow it to stay attractive for many years.
  
  

Ammonia-Based

• Ammonia-based cleaners are inappropriate for natural stone surfaces, as they can dull the finish over time. However, they work well on "stone" counters made from Corian. DuPont recommends using this kind of cleaner for regular light maintenance on your Corian countertop. Avoid window cleaners. According to DuPont, they may leave behind a waxy substance that dulls even matte countertops.
  
  

Commercial Solid Surface

• Commercial products meant specifically for solid-surface materials such as Corian are also a good bet. Some are even formulated specifically for use on Corian. These cleaners should not damage the surface, and may offer stronger cleaning ability than all purpose ammonia-based cleaning products, but are also more expensive.
  
  

Chlorine Bleach

• Chlorine bleach is the preferred disinfectant for Corian countertops. DuPont recommends a mixture of 1 part water and 1 part bleach, to be wiped onto the surface. Rinse countertops thoroughly with water after applying the bleach solution and dry the counter completely. According to the Housekeeping Channel, it's important to avoid mixing bleach and ammonia--as a toxic gas may form--so disinfect separately from routine cleaning.
  
  

Hard Water Removers

• Corian countertops may develop hard-water stains, especially in areas near the sink. These can be prevented by wiping counters completely dry whenever they get wet and cleaning up spills right away. Existing hard water stains may be removed using a cleaner formulated for the purpose. Lime removers work well, and should not damage the surface. Read package instructions before using these cleaners--many require gloves and good ventilation.