Countertops: How to Choose and Maintain the Best Material

At the end of a remodel, clients often ask how to care for their new surfaces. Beautiful countertops need the right cleaning products and routines to stay that way. These tips work whether you just remodeled or simply want to keep your home looking fresh.

Here is how to care for the most common countertop materials.

Quartz

Quartz is an engineered stone with a non-porous surface, so it needs less maintenance than natural stone. It has become a top countertop choice for its durability and low upkeep, and it comes in many colors and patterns that mimic granite, marble and concrete.

Care: no resealing needed. Clean with a damp cloth and mild dish soap or a quartz cleaner, then dry with a microfiber cloth.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone with endless colors and patterns and has been a kitchen favorite for decades. Because it is porous, wipe up spills quickly to avoid stains.

Care: clean with mild soap and warm water or a granite cleaner, dry with microfiber and reseal once or twice a year.

Marble

Marble is popular in kitchens and baths, especially in higher end homes. Its colors and veining come from mineral deposits where it was quarried. Marble handles heat well but is prone to stains, scratches and etching.

Care: reseal at least once or twice a year. If you cook or bake a lot, or love coffee and red wine, a marble-look quartz gives you the same look with less risk.

Butcher Block

Butcher block is made from hardwoods like maple, walnut, teak or ash and has been a kitchen classic for generations.

Care: clean with mild soap and a damp cloth, and avoid bleach and harsh chemicals. Oil it regularly with food-safe mineral oil or a butcher block conditioner. Never use olive or vegetable oil, which can go rancid. Worn or stained butcher block can be sanded, refinished and resealed.

Laminate and Solid Surface

Laminate is the most affordable option and popular with DIYers. Both laminate and solid surface resist stains, mold and mildew, but they do not stand up to heat and can scratch easily.

Care: clean with mild soap and water or a non-abrasive cleaner. No sealing required.

Tips for Any Countertop

• Use coasters for drinks and trivets for hot pans.
• Always use a cutting board.
• Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents and scrub brushes that weaken sealants.
• Dry surfaces with a clean microfiber cloth after cleaning to prevent water spots.

Comparing options for a new kitchen? Read our granite vs. quartz guide and kitchen surface selection tips.

Need New Countertops?

Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling can help you choose the right surface for your lifestyle. Call 678-450-1700 or contact us online.

This article originally appeared in the April 2023 edition of Lakeside on Lanier.