Want an elegant, long-lasting kitchen workspace? Natural stone countertops are the way to go! They’re hardy and durable, have a beauty that matches any interior design, and greatly enhance the resale value of a home. So, it’s no surprise that countless homeowners get them for their kitchens.
Whether you have quartz, granite, or marble countertops, knowing how to clean stone countertops will help keep them in good condition for longer. Let’s talk about the dos and don’ts of cleaning stone countertops to help you know what to do!
The Dos for Cleaning Natural Stone Countertops
Use pH-Neutral Cleaners
pH-neutral solutions, specifically those designed for cleaning stone surfaces, thoroughly cleanse your quartz, marble, or granite countertops without leaving damage like etching and discoloration.
Check your cleaner’s label—it should explicitly state that it’s pH-neutral and can be used on natural stones without problems. Otherwise, warm water and mild dish soap work in a pinch.
Clean Spills Immediately
Wiping up spills as soon as possible, especially acidic liquids like lemon juice, vinegar, and wine, will help prevent staining and etching. Be gentle when wiping your granite, marble, or quartz countertop.
Use Soft Cloths and Sponges
It’s a good practice to use microfiber cloths when wiping temporary spills to avoid scratching the stone surface. If you need to absorb liquid, blotting it with a sponge or paper towel is enough.
Seal Your Countertops Regularly
Sealing is a standard part of stone countertop maintenance. It creates a barrier on the material, protecting stone countertops from spills and moisture that can penetrate them. Check your current sealant’s integrity: if the surface absorbs water quickly, it’s time to reseal.
Use Coasters and Trivets
A simple way to keep your countertops in top shape is by using coasters and trivets. Placing them under glasses, pitchers, pots, and pans will prevent rings and heat damage on stone surfaces. This simple practice will do wonders in preserving your countertop’s appearance.
The Don’ts for Cleaning Stone Countertops
Don’t Use Acidic or Harsh Cleaners
While harsh and acidic cleaners like bleach, ammonia, and vinegar will remove most stains from other materials, keep them away from your stone countertop. They chemically react with stone, leading to potentially irreversible problems like etching, discoloration, and loss of shine.
Don’t Use Abrasive Scrubbers or Pads.
When cleaning stone countertops, avoid abrasive materials like steel wool or scouring pads, even when dealing with tough stains. They will damage your countertop’s finish and strip it of its seal, leaving the stone vulnerable to moisture damage, stains, and etching. Consult a stone countertop installer if you have a serious stain problem before tackling it yourself.
Don’t Allow Water to Pool
Quickly wipe down pooling water on your countertop, especially around sinks or faucets, to minimize hard water stains and discoloration that can build up over time. Remember: use soft cloths and sponges to avoid scratching the surface!
Don’t Place Heavy or Sharp Objects Directly on the Countertop
Knives and bulky appliances can scratch your stone countertop’s surface if you are careless, so don’t drop or drag items. Use mats or coasters if items do not already have rubber feet. Cushion cutting boards with a tea towel during use to avoid sliding. Don’t be rough with your stone countertop to preserve its finish and quality.
Don’t Forget Routine Maintenance
While stone countertops are durable, you still need to keep up with maintenance. Wipe yours down after every use and reseal it when necessary to keep it looking its best.
Best Practices for Long-Term Care
Keep your stone countertop in good condition for longer by adhering to these upkeep practices!
Establish a Cleaning Routine
Clean your countertop regularly to keep it looking good. Wiping after use should be sufficient daily cleaning. A deeper clean could be reserved for monthly routines. Just make sure to wipe your counter down and rid it of spilled food and liquids after every use to keep it in top condition.
Addressing Stains and Etching
Does your countertop already have stains or etching? Don’t worry—it can be remedied. You could use a stone poultice, but it may be best to hire professional stone experts to handle these problems.
If you have an installer’s warranty, read it and don’t take steps that would void any warranties—don’t hesitate to call them for advice any time you have a problem with your countertop.
It’s important to deal with serious problems as soon as you spot them. They can get worse with time, so ignoring them might leave you with permanent damage that may not easily be repaired.
Elevate Your Kitchen Countertops with American Wood Reface
Cleaning stone countertops will keep your entire kitchen in good shape. It will also preserve your countertop’s beauty, allowing you and your loved ones to enjoy it for years to come!
Want to upgrade your countertops? American Wood Reface offers expert countertop replacement to complement our cabinet refacing service. With various natural stone colors, patterns, and edging options, we can help turn your vision into reality.
