Caring for Your Countertops
Your countertops are a major investment—and with the right care, they’ll stay beautiful and functional for years to come. Whether you’ve chosen Granite, Engineered Quartz, or any other Natural Stone, each material has its own characteristics and best practices for maintenance. Below, you’ll find tailored tips for caring for your specific surface, along with some essential Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind.
Let’s help you protect your space with confidence.
Natural Stone - Granite Countertops
Granite is a natural stone known for its unique beauty, strength, and durability. With proper care, it can withstand the demands of everyday kitchen use while retaining its elegant appearance. Because it’s a porous material, sealing and regular maintenance are key to preserving its look and preventing staining or damage. Follow these guidelines to keep your granite – or any natural stone – countertops in great shape for years to come.
- DO: Clean daily with a soft cloth and mild dish soap: Use warm water and a gentle dish soap to wipe down surfaces. Avoid abrasive sponges that can scratch the sealant.
- DO: Use cutting boards: Always use cutting boards to prevent scratches and protect your knives.
- DO: Place hot pads or trivets under hot cookware: While granite is heat-resistant, sudden temperature changes can cause cracks.
- DO: Remove spills promptly: Especially acidic substances like wine, citrus juices, or vinegar, which can etch the surface if left unattended.
- DO: Perform annual sealant checks: Even though your countertops are sealed upon installation, it’s wise to test the sealant annually. Place a few drops of water on the surface; if it beads up, the seal is intact. If it soaks in, consider resealing.
❌ Don’ts
- DON’T: Use harsh or abrasive cleaners like bleach, ammonia, or vinegar, or bathroom cleaners.
- DON’T: Leave oily or greasy substances on the surface, they can stain.
- DON’T: Sit or stand on your countertops because while they’re strong, they are not built to support body weight.
- DON’T: Use acidic or citrus-based cleaners, which can etch or dull the surface over time.
Engineered Stone - Quartz Countertops
Composed of engineered quartz crystals, these countertop surfaces offer a stunning array of colors and patterns, mimicking the allure of natural stone. Renowned for their non-porous nature, quartz countertops resist stains and require minimal maintenance. With a durable composition that can take the daily wear and tear, these countertops embody a perfect harmony of practicality and elegant appearance, and provide a lasting centerpiece for your kitchen or bathroom.
- DO: Clean surface regularly: Use warm water and a gentle dish soap to wipe down surfaces. Avoid abrasive sponges that can scratch the sealant.
- DO: Use cutting boards: Always use cutting boards to prevent scratches and protect your knives.
- DO: Place hot pads or trivets under hot cookware: While Quartz is heat-resistant, sudden temperature changes can cause cracks.
- DO: Remove glue or dry paint from surface by gently scraping it off with a plastic putty knife or using a razor. Use pH neutral cleaner or soap and water to finish cleaning the surface.
- DO: For tough stains, use damp a cloth with an acetone cleaner. Rub cloth on stain and just where the stain is. Remember it is important to clean area with soap and water after procedure, as prolonged contact with your countertop is not recommended.
❌ Don’ts
- DON’T: Use harsh or abrasive cleaners like bleach, ammonia, or vinegar.
- DON’T: Leave containers of harsh chemicals on countertops, as any prolonged contact with such materials could damage your Quartz. Examples include paint thinners, acetone, nail polish removers, etc.
- DON’T use alkaline cleaners not specifically formulated for stone.
- DON’T use a knife and cut directly on the stone.