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Formica is a brand of laminate, so all Formica is laminate, but not all laminate is Formica. To identify it, look for a thin, plastic-like surface bonded to a wood or particleboard base. Formica often has branding on the underside. If you don’t see Formica, it could be Wilsonart, another familiar laminate brand. If the countertop is unique, you can visit the Formica site to find a match. Formica is known for creative collaborations that lead to unique design offerings.

Baking soda can damage some countertops, but it makes an excellent mild abrasive for removing stains on other countertops. For example, never use baking soda on quartz or glass countertops, but you can use it on laminate and tile. Stay away from using it on quartz because it can scratch and damage the counter, and glass is prone to scratches. Since baking soda is a mild abrasive, you can only use it on certain surfaces.

While epoxy resin is generally durable, it is not scratch-proof. Some sources state it is highly resistant to scratches from minor sources, while others note it can scratch and chip easily from sharper or heavier items. To prevent damage, always use a cutting board and avoid sliding heavy or rough-bottomed objects across the surface. If a scratch does occur, be aware that epoxy can be difficult to repair by sanding, often requiring an orbital sander for effective results.

You can put hot pans on porcelain countertops. Porcelain is highly resistant to heat—it’s manufactured at around 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit, so it can withstand a ton of heat without cracking or damaging. Even though the high heat is a plus, you should still be cautious when putting hot surfaces on porcelain countertops.