Keep Your Workbench Looking Like New

So you’ve just purchased a new workbench – it’s home, it’s setup and it looks great. But how do you keep your workbench looking like new? The appropriate maintenance depends on the workbench top material. Fortunately, most workbenches feature similar materials. Cleaning and maintaining these materials is easy and will help keep your workbench in top shape for years.

Workbench Top Materials

Most workbenches you purchase will include a steel, particle board, or Medium density fiberboard (MDF) top. They may even have a combination of these materials like a particle board top with a stainless steel veneer. If you’re not sure, check the owners manual. The Craftsman Workbench (review) has heavy MDF workbench top with a clear protective coating.

How to Maintain your Workbench

Stainless Steel Work Top
Stainless steel is a great surface to work on. It’s usually one solid piece and has no seams. Steel is non-porous meaning it won’t absorb liquids. For spills, promptly wiping it clean will avoid rust or corrosion. Clean the surface with a mild dish soap and soft cloth. Dry completely after cleaning.

The problem with steel work-tops are the dents and scratches that can occur over time. Light scratches will often blend in with the surface but deeper scratches will be more obvious. Deeper scratches can be obscured by applying a scouring pad. Gently move the pad in-line with the existing grain.

Coated Particle Board or MDF
Both particle board and MDF also make for great work-top materials. They are sturdy and have minimal recoil. The coating on these surfaces help protect them from stains – sealing the pores. Mild soap and water will be enough for occasional cleanings. Targeted cleaning agents should be used to remove grease and oil.

To keep these surfaces looking like new, use auto wax. The wax will help protect from scratches and give the top a beautiful sheen. Apply the wax just as you would to a car, working in small circles.

What do you think? How to do you maintain your work surface?
Image courtesy of Robert S. Donovan