Over time, kitchen counters can become cluttered, messy and covered with grease and food stains. If your counters are dragging your down and need a makeover, it may be time to make some tough decisions. Look carefully at your counters and ask yourself what changes need to be made. This may require parting with appliances that have sentimental value, but which provide no aesthetic benefit.

Instructions as follows:

Firstly, remove everything from the counters, even your appliances. This includes paper goods, takeout menus and all appliances -- really clear the decks. Once everything is removed, take hot, soapy water and scrub the counters down, paying special attention to stains and sticky spots that have accumulated over time.

Secondly, if you aren't satisfied with your counter surfaces, change them. Your counters may be a color that no longer suits your taste or kitchen decor. Or they may just be showing their age and be damaged. Depending on your budget, you can paint your counters, apply fresh laminate or install new ceramic tile .

Thirdly, if you choose to paint the countertop , sand it first to remove the glossy finish. Clean the counter with a de-greaser. Paint at least three layers of your chosen color; make sure each layer is completely dry before applying additional coats.

Fourthly, if you choose to install new laminate, coat the surface of your counter and the underside of the laminate with contact cement. Follow the directions on the contact cement bottle carefully. Lay the laminate over the counter top and allow the glue to dry.