Top Tips for Keeping Countertops Like New

Maintaining your countertops may require more than a simple cleaning. Here are top tips for maintaining every material.

By Elzy Kolb | Published Apr 23, 2020 07:50 PM

Caring for Countertops

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How To Clean Kitchen Countertops

Different countertop materials have different maintenance and stain removal requirements. Here, find out how to keep your countertops like new, no matter what type they are.

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Wood

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how to clean wood countertops

For long-lasting butcher block wood countertops, apply mineral oil monthly. Non-butcher block wood counters do best with marine oil, which keeps the stain fade-resistant. Marks and burns can be sanded out of wood, and stains are easily removable with lemon juice or hydrogen peroxide.

Related: How To: Clean and Maintain Butcher Block

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Quartz

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How To Clean Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are heat-, stain-, and scratch-resistant. Also, they are nonporous and do not need to be sealed. If stains do occur, a paste of hydrogen peroxide and flour, applied and left to sit for 24 hours, will lift a spot right out.

Related: How To: Clean Quartz Countertops

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Marble

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How To Clean Marble Countertops

Marble requires higher maintenance than other types of countertops. Naturally porous, the material is susceptible to etching. Chemical corrosion can be buffed out with marble polish. Oil stains can be removed by ammonia, hydrogen peroxide, or mineral spirits. And food stains can be lifted with a water-based paste of baking soda and dish soap.

Related: How To: Clean Marble Countertops

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Soapstone

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how to clean soapstone countertops

Naturally nonporous, soapstone does not require sealing. Nicks and scratches are common, adding to the countertop's rugged patina. Slight discoloration from oil contact can be rubbed out with mineral oil.

Related: All You Need to Know About Soapstone Countertops

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Stainless Steel

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how to clean stainless steel countertops

Scratches are inevitable with the surface of stainless steel countertops, but they can be buffed out with an abrasive pad. Prevent rusting by avoiding cast iron pan contact with the counter. Any rust stains that do occur may be eliminated with a paste of lemon juice and baking soda. 

Related: How To: Clean Stainless Steel

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Laminate

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How to clean laminate countertops

A simple paste of baking soda and water left on a laminate surface for three to five minutes will remove most stains that occur, while difficult stains may be fought using household bleach rubbed in gently with a cotton ball.

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Solid Surface

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How to clean solid surface countertops

Fine scratches or stains get buffed out of solid surface countertops with a mild abrasive. Though a plastic-like patina may develop on the surface over time, this can easily be removed by a professional.

Related: Kitchen Countertops: 10 Popular Options Today

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Concrete

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How to clean concrete countertops

Before installation, your concrete countertops should be specially sealed by the manufacturer to avoid staining. Applying tung oil a few times a year can keep them stain-resistant, and wax can be applied for a glossier look.

Related: 10 Ways You're Accidentally Ruining Your Countertops

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Ceramic Tile

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how to clean tile countertops

The focus in maintaining ceramic tile countertops is the grout. Clean regularly with a toothbrush and mildew-fighting solution; fight occasional stains with diluted household beach.

Related: All You Need to Know About Tile Countertops

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Granite

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how to clean granite countertops

To find out if your granite is adequately sealed, splash some water on the surface. If the water is still beaded up 10 or 15 minutes later, your granite is properly sealed. If the water has absorbed, head to the hardware store; sealing is quick and inexpensive.

Related: How To: Clean Granite Countertops

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