Top 10 Tips for Maintaining Your Stone Countertops to Keep Them Looking New
Stone countertops are beautiful and durable, but like any investment in your home, they need a little care to stay looking their best. If you’ve recently installed granite, marble, quartz, or another type of stone, following a few simple tips can help prevent stains, scratches, and wear over time. Here are ten practical ways to maintain your stone countertops so they stay fresh and polished.
Top 10 Tips for Maintaining Your Stone Countertops to Keep Them Looking New
1. Clean Spills Immediately
One of the easiest ways to protect your countertops is to wipe up spills as soon as they happen. Acidic liquids like lemon juice, vinegar, or tomato sauce can etch natural stones like marble. Even quartz, while more resistant, can stain if something sits too long. Keep a soft cloth or paper towel handy in your kitchen to quickly blot spills instead of rubbing them, which can spread the liquid and worsen the stain.
2. Use Gentle Cleaners
Avoid harsh chemical cleaners. Strong acids or bleach can damage stone surfaces. Instead, use a mild dish soap mixed with warm water or a cleaner made specifically for stone. A soft sponge or microfiber cloth works best. Regular cleaning with gentle products keeps your countertops free from grime without risking scratches or dulling the finish.
For more ideas about protecting and caring for stone countertops, you can check out Midwest Marble & Granite’s guide for practical tips.
3. Invest in Cutting Boards
It can be tempting to chop vegetables or cut meat directly on your countertop, but this can leave scratches, especially on softer stones like marble. Use cutting boards for prep work to protect the surface. Wooden or plastic boards are both fine; just make sure they’re clean to avoid transferring bacteria to your food.
4. Use Trivets and Hot Pads
Placing hot pots and pans directly on stone can cause cracks or discoloration, particularly with natural stones that aren’t fully heat-resistant. Always use trivets or heat pads under cookware straight from the stove or oven. Even though quartz can handle moderate heat, prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can damage the resin that binds the stone.
5. Seal Your Countertops Regularly
Natural stones like granite and marble often need periodic sealing to prevent stains. Sealing doesn’t make your countertop invincible, but it adds a layer of protection against liquids soaking into the stone. How often you need to seal depends on the type of stone and how much you use the surface. A simple water test — dropping a few drops on your countertop — can tell you if it’s time to reseal. If water beads up, you’re fine; if it soaks in, it’s time for a new seal.
6. Avoid Abrasive Scrubbers
Steel wool, scouring pads, and other abrasive tools can scratch your countertop. Stick with soft sponges, cloths, or brushes designed for delicate surfaces. Even daily cleaning can create micro-scratches if you’re using rough materials, so handle your countertops gently.
7. Be Careful with Chemicals
Some household chemicals, like drain cleaners, paint strippers, and oven cleaners, are too strong for stone surfaces. Always read labels before using anything near your countertops. Even natural remedies like vinegar and lemon can damage some stones, so it’s best to stick with stone-safe products.
8. Avoid Standing Water
Standing water, especially near sinks, can cause stains or dull spots on natural stone over time. Wipe areas dry after heavy use and check for water pooling around sinks, edges, or seams. A dry countertop not only looks cleaner but lasts longer.
9. Address Stains Promptly
If a stain does appear, don’t panic. Most stains can be treated with a gentle poultice made for stone surfaces. Avoid scrubbing too hard — patience is key.
10. Keep Up With Regular Maintenance
Finally, consistency matters. A quick wipe every day and deeper cleaning weekly keeps your countertops looking new. Check seals periodically, address small chips or scratches immediately, and avoid risky habits like cutting directly on the stone or placing hot cookware without protection. Small steps make a big difference over time.
Conclusion
Stone countertops are a long-term investment that adds beauty and value to your home. With a little attention and simple daily habits, you can keep them looking fresh and prevent costly damage. From wiping spills immediately to using cutting boards and maintaining seals, these ten tips give you a straightforward plan for keeping your surfaces in top shape. Treat your stone with care, and it will reward you with years of elegance and durability.
