Tips To Maintain Your Kitchen Countertops

Countertops are a key feature in any kitchen or bathroom. They see a lot of action! They’re where we prep food, wash dishes, and take care of hygiene. They’re often one of the first features to show wear and tear. Not only is it unsightly to have damaged countertops, but it can also pose a safety hazard if you’re not careful about spills. Cracks and scratches provide the perfect hiding place for bacteria to grow.

So, what can you do to keep your countertops looking their best? Here are a few tips:

1. Clean them regularly. Wipe up spills as soon as they happen and give them a good scrub down at least once a week.
2. Be careful with what you use on them. Some cleaning products can damage the finish or leave behind streaks. Stick to mild soap and water or a specially designed countertop cleaner for your specific countertop material.
3. Use coasters, trivets, and cutting boards. These will help protect your countertops from scratches, stains, and heat damage. Avoid placing hot pans directly on the surface. Use a pan stand or a towel to act as a buffer. Sharp knives can also damage your countertops, so be sure to use a cutting board.
4. Reapply the sealant. Depending on the type of countertop you have, you may need to reseal it every few years. This will help protect it.
5. Condition them periodically.

What is the easiest countertop to maintain?

There is no easy answer when it comes to determining which countertops are easier to maintain. Different materials require different levels of care. Below are a few popular countertop choices with information on what care and maintenance is required to keep them looking beautiful long after they have been installed.

Quartz/Engineered Stone Countertops

Engineered Stone, like quartz, is a popular choice for many because they are low-maintenance and durable. Quartz countertops resist staining and don’t need to be sealed. They are also heat-resistant and scratch resistant. Quartz countertops are usually thinner than other stone materials, such as granite countertops.

To maintain, simply clean with a mild soap and water solution. You can use a countertop cleaner specifically designed for quartz.

Granite Countertops

Granite Countertops are one of the most popular choices for kitchens and bathrooms. They bring an eye-catching look to your kitchen and are elegant and sturdy.

To maintain them, you need to seal them every few years to prevent staining and you should wipe up spills immediately. Using soap and water with a soft microfiber cloth will be your go-to to clean granite. Vinegar, harsh chemicals, and abrasive pads can cause scratches, dulling, and weaken the sealant quicker. If you are needing a deeper clean, find a specific cleaner that is approved for Granite.

Marble Countertops

Marble is a luxurious material that adds a touch of elegance to any home. It is also one of the most expensive and high-maintenance countertop materials. Marble is a porous stone, which means it can absorb liquids and stains easily. It also scratches and chips easily.

Clean it regularly with a pH-neutral cleaner and avoid using harsh chemicals. You should also seal it every few months to prevent staining. You can use a marble polishing powder to buff out scratches.

Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone is a natural stone that is becoming increasingly popular in countertop design. It is heat resistant and non-porous, which makes it low maintenance. Soapstone does not require sealing and it is resistant to stains and scratches but does require mineral oil treatments.

To maintain, it is recommended to steer away from harsh chemicals as they may remove the mineral oil treatment, causing more maintenance. Household cleaners can be used but using regular soap and water is just as effective, and safer as well.

Wood Countertops

Wood is a popular choice for many homeowners because of its beauty and durability. Wood makes for a great option for food prep because it is gentle on knives. However, wood is susceptible to scratches, heat damage, and water damage if it is not properly sealed.

To maintain, first ensure proper sealing, then apply mineral oil every few weeks to keep your countertop conditioned and healthy. Use a food-safe mineral oil to keep them from drying out and cracking.

Laminate Countertops

Laminate countertops are a non-porous material, so it is more apt to resist staining. It is also scratch-resistant. However, laminate countertops can chip easily and endure burning if items are placed on top without protection. Over time, laminate needs to be replaced as opposed to repaired.

To maintain, regularly clean with a countertop cleaner or mild soap and water, without saturating the surface for a long period. Dishwashing liquid is highly recommended and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scouring pads.

What is the best countertop material?

Are you preparing to renovate your kitchen and curious about what is the best countertop material to choose for your new kitchen? There is no single right or wrong answer to the question of which countertop is the easiest to maintain. Your final decision will depend on your specific design choice and what features you are looking for in a countertop. You should weigh the pros and cons of each type and determine what style you like best.

With the right care and maintenance, you can keep your countertops healthy looking, and shining brighter than ever. By following these simple steps and advice, you will have success in ensuring that your countertop lasts for years to come.

If you're still not sure where to start or what product is best for your needs, or you want to refresh the look of your countertops, Austin Painting & Cabinets in Austin, Texas, offers complimentary consultations. We are kitchen remodeling and cabinet painting experts. Our team would be more than happy to help lend our years of experience as guidance in making the decisions you need to create the kitchen of your dreams. Contact us today to learn more.