Natural stone is the most popular choice for countertops, with quartz handily taking the top spot. Stone is versatile and durable, but they do have specific maintenance needs. To protect your stone countertops and keep them strong and functional, you will need to take some precautions as you clean and maintain them.
Cleaning Your Countertops: Everything You Need to Know
Cleaning your stone countertop correctly and using it carefully will extend its life. Beyond trivets and cutting boards, here’s what you need to know about protecting your stone countertop for years of reliable service.
Marble and Granite Countertops
Marble and granite are strong, with a tough-as-nails surface that can withstand most of what you throw at it. Good care will keep that stone not just intact but also attractive.
For everyday cleaning, use warm water and mild dish soap to wipe down your countertops and remove dirt and debris. Once the countertop is clean, you can dry and polish it with a dry microfiber cloth. Skip the acidic or abrasive cleaners, which can erode the sealed surface and etch the underlying stone, and use only those made specifically for natural stone.
Stains can mar the porous surface of the countertop, so you need to take action quickly if you notice a stain or discoloration. Oil-based stains tend to respond well to a paste of baking soda and water. Mix well and apply liberally to the stain. Cover it with plastic wrap and allow it to sit at least overnight and as long as a few days, if necessary. Once you rinse the paste off, your countertop should be clear again. If it’s not, you can repeat the process.
Protein-based stains typically respond to hydrogen peroxide. Apply the hydrogen peroxide only to light-colored marble and allow it to work. If your countertop does not respond to these at-home stain removers or if you have a dark marble countertop with stains, it’s time to call in the pros. We can help erase stains and restore your countertop. We can also reseal them as needed for added stain protection.
Solid Surface Countertops
Solid surface countertops are versatile and capable of withstanding your heavy-duty kitchen jobs. They are designed for ease of cleaning, but you still need to take precautions to prevent any unnecessary damage.
Clean your solid surface countertop using a mild dish detergent or household cleaner and water. Wipe away any spills, messes, or debris, and then you can dry your countertop using a microfiber cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners containing acidic or alkaline ingredients, and do not use scouring pads, steel wool, or other abrasive cleaning tools.
If you notice a stain, act quickly to limit the potential damage. Make a paste using baking soda and water, and apply it to the stain for about five minutes. Do not scrub the stain using baking soda: This can lead to microscopic scratches and etching. Instead, rinse the paste off using a soft microfiber cloth.
You won’t need to seal your solid surface countertop, but you should take steps to protect them, such as by always using cutting boards and trivets. If you notice scratches or have stains that don’t respond to treatment, give us a call.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are tough. Made using a special blend of resin and quartz crystals, these countertops are virtually maintenance-free. A little bit of care can go a long way toward ensuring they remain beautiful and functional for many years.
While strong and durable, however, they are not indestructible. Avoid using strong chemicals when cleaning them, and instead, use mild soap and water along with a nonabrasive sponge or microfiber cloth to clean. If you notice stains or discolorations, apply a non-abrasive glass cleaner to the problem area and wipe it away. Tough stains, like paint, can be removed using a plastic putty knife and gentle scraping.
Your quartz countertop won’t typically need to be resealed, but if you notice extensive wear or deep stains that you can’t dislodge, give us a call. We’ll restore your quartz countertop to like-new condition.
Corian Countertops
One of the more durable and easy-to-clean countertop surfaces, Corian is resilient and attractive. It’s got a smooth, non-porous surface that resists dirt and grime and reduces the risk of stains. Unfortunately, they can still be damaged by improper care and cleaning techniques. Cleaning your Corian countertops properly can help ensure a long lifespan.
Soap and warm water are sufficient for the day-to-day cleaning of Corian countertops. Clean up messes right away to avoid stains. Dry the surface with a clean microfiber cloth. If you spot a stain, use an ammonia-based cleaner made specifically for cleaning Corian to break down the particles responsible for the stain.
Maintaining Your Countertops
Regardless of the type of countertop in your kitchen or bathroom, a little extra caution and TLC during your daily use of it will help keep it fresh.
Prevention
The first step in maintaining your countertops is to prevent damage in the first place. Use cutting boards, coasters, trivets, and other protective tools to prevent stains, etching, and scorching. Blot rather than wipe spills immediately to better contain the mess, and use proper cleaning tools and materials. Avoid abrasive or acidic cleaners, which can damage the sealant and finish. Do not sit, kneel, or stand on your countertops, which can lead to cracks and fractures.
Cleaning Countertops
Countertops need to be tough enough to withstand frequent cleaning, but the right products can make all the difference in the world. Do not use vinegar or other harsh cleaners. Instead, look for mild, neutral cleaners that are designed for natural stone. Skip the abrasives, too: A soft sponge or microfiber cloth is perfect for the job. Blot spills as they occur and avoid wiping, which can spread the stain.
Sealing Countertops
Not all countertops require sealing, but granite and other natural stone countertops are naturally porous, which means they can absorb stain-causing materials. Keep spills and everyday messes from ruining your counter’s appearance by resealing the countertops annually. The sealant prevents porosity and adds a layer of protection against staining.
Call the Experts at Surface Link
Deep stains, worn sealants, scratches, cracks, and more can reduce the lifespan of your countertop and detract from its appearance. If your countertop is damaged or discolored, we can help. We offer a range of services, including repairing, restoring, polishing, and sealing, to make your countertop just like new. Call us today to find out more!