There are so many different types of kitchen countertops, all with unique quirks. Each type requires different methods for cleaning and maintaining. Here’s a quick rundown on how to properly take care of some of the more popular countertop materials.
Granite
Do you need to do anything special to help maintain their look? Regular re-sealing is required for granite countertops. To determine when it’s time, periodically splash a little water on the counter – when the water no longer beads up or flows freely, it’s time to re-seal.
How to clean: Simply wipe the surface with warm, soapy water, then rinse. Don’t use a scrubbing pad or harsh cleaner (cleaners that have ammonia, vinegar or lemon), as these may scratch or eat away at the surface.
Quartz
Do you need to do anything special to help maintain their look? Since Quartz is a non-porous surface, it won’t need to be sealed annually, which makes this a very low maintenance surface option.
How to clean: A simple warm water and mild dish detergent will clean quartz countertops best. Rinse thoroughly, soak up any standing water, and allow the surface to air dry. Avoid using any astringents or harsh chemicals as these can wear down quartz when used too often.
Marble
Do you need to do anything special to help maintain their look? Marble is a soft, porous stone that makes it susceptible to staining and scratches. Annual sealing will help protect your countertop from undesired blemishes.
How to clean: Using a soft cloth, wipe the surface down with a mixture of ph-neutral dishwashing liquid and warm water, then rinse completely. Marble is prone to water spots, so after rinsing, dry the countertops completely with a clean, dry cloth. Never let marble airdry to avoid streaks. Also avoid using any acidic compounds for cleaning, as these will adversely react with marble.
Concrete
Do you need to do anything special to help maintain their look? Sealers used on concrete countertops are susceptible to heat damage, so avoid putting hot pots and pans directly on the surface. Once a year, this type of countertop should get an application of a good water-based wax sealer to ensure the surface continues resisting stains and cracking.
How to clean: Warm, soapy water will clean concrete countertops best. Be sure to rinse thoroughly.
Laminate
Do you need to do anything special to help maintain their look? Laminate is very low maintenance and just requires regular cleaning. Avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on the countertop as this can burn the surface.
How to clean: You can use warm, soapy water or a standard kitchen cleaning product. Don’t use a harsh scrubbing bush, instead use a soft bush, like a toothbrush, to clean along the seams.
Tile
Do you need to do anything special to help maintain their look? At least once a year, seal the grout lines with an interior grout sealer that is compatible with your tile type. If your tiles are made of stone and are porous, these will need to be sealed one or two times per year to protect from staining.
How to clean: Tile countertops can be cleaned with soap and water, but it’s important to really rinse the surface thoroughly, or else the soap may leave a residue. To avoid this, you can add white vinegar to the water.
At FloorQuest we offer a wide variety of countertop options to suit any aesthetic style and need. Give us a call today to find the best countertop solution for you!
