Countertop Maintenance Tips for a Cleaner and Healthier Kitchen

Beautiful countertops deserve the best care. Various countertop materials demand maintenance or resealing, with some requiring more attention than others.

Maintain your kitchen countertops while ensuring the overall cleanliness and health of your kitchen with these actionable tips.

Quartz Countertop Maintenance

Engineered quartz is popular in the world of remodeling. Quartz is an excellent choice for kitchen or laundry room countertops because it doesn't need sealing and is nonporous. When cleaning quartz countertops, use a nonabrasive cleaner. Daily cleaning with soap and water is highly recommended. Because quartz is nonporous, it’s best to avoid intensive cleaners like bleach.

Marble Countertop Maintenance

Marble countertops add luxury but need more maintenance than engineered stones such as quartz. As a porous natural stone, marble needs regular sealing to prevent stains and etching. Reapply sealer on marble every six to twelve months to renew protection.

Wipe up spills right away before they soak in. For dried spills, make a baking soda and water paste and gently rub into the stain using a soft cloth. Keep acidic foods off marble to prevent discoloration over time.

Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasive pads on marble. Use pH-neutral cleaners and mild dish soap for routine countertop cleaning. Keep marble pristine by checking monthly for signs of wear and have countertops polished professionally as needed. 

Solid Surface Care

Solid surface counters like Corian offer sleek style and easy care. Made of durable synthetics, solid surface counters resist stains, scratches, and heat damage. Clean routinely with mild soap and water or an all-purpose surface cleaner.

Gently buff out minor scratches with fine-grit sandpaper. Avoid harsh chemicals that can discolor surfaces. Wipe up spills immediately to maintain the flawless look.

Every one to two years, thoroughly clean solid surface counters with diluted bleach to disinfect and brighten. Check for damage needing professional repair. With proper care, quality solid surfaces have maintained their pristine look for decades.

Granite Countertop Maintenance

Granite is a popular stone for counters because of its elegance and durability. In my two decades as a real estate agent, I've observed that granite countertops are coveted for their durability and sustained value.

Most granite resists stains and etching without routine sealing. Apply sealant on more porous varieties every one to two years.

For daily care, promptly wipe up spills with water and mild soap. For dried spills on counters, use a granite cleaner and soft sponge, rubbing gently in circles. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or acidic cleaners. Granite is quite scratch-resistant, but don't use abrasive pads.

Twice a year, thoroughly disinfect granite to prevent bacteria buildup. Annually, inspect for damage and have counters professionally resurfaced as needed.

Learn More About Countertop Maintenance

So, Is Countertop Maintenance Worth the Effort?

Properly maintaining your countertops takes time and diligence, but it's worth it. Following the manufacturer’s care tips keeps countertops hygienic, prevents costly damage, and prolongs their beauty. Sealing regularly, cleaning promptly, and avoiding harsh products will keep surfaces such as quartz, marble, and granite looking amazing for years. 

Don't cut corners caring for your investment. Clean, sealed countertops support a cleaner, healthier kitchen.