Countertops are the center of any kitchen or bathroom. They will be used each day to cook, serve, and even entertain. Since they are a big part of your home, many homeowners want their countertops to be shiny and beautiful for a lifetime. With the proper care, countertops can look like new despite heavy daily use over several decades. Here are some tips from professionals on how to keep your countertops clean and shiny.
Clean Regularly with Gentle Products
Regular cleaning is the first step you can take to maintain shiny countertops. Many people make the first mistake by using heavy chemicals or rough cleaners that destroy the surface and dull the shine. Use a mild dish soap and warm water with a soft rag or sponge. You should also wipe the surface once a day with a clean cloth to remove spills, crumbs, and dust. This habit makes it easy to prevent buildup and will help keep your countertop looking new.
Protect Against Heat and Sharp Objects
While a lot of countertop materials are made to last, it’s best not to find out how durable they really are! When placing hot pans, pots, or baking trays directly on your counter, you can leave marks or discoloration. This is especially true of quartz and marble! Use trivets or hot pads to place heated items on your countertop surfaces. Regarding countertop scratches, bend cutting boards for food prep, and not the counter! Sharp knives placed directly on the countertop can scratch the surface. Cutting boards are an important part of your food preparation and an essential part in preventing scratches and protecting the finish of your counters. Small efforts like this for kitchen use will keep your counters looking shiny for a long time!
Seal Natural Stone Countertops
Granite, marble, and quartzite countertops are made of a naturally porous material. This indicates that they can readily absorb liquids, revealing stains and ruining the shine. Sealing is an easy way to avoid damage to the stones. Experts suggest sealing stone countertops every 1-2 years, pending wear and tear. Once applied, the seal takes care of the tiny pores and provides a protective barrier against spills and stains, making cleanup easier and allowing for that just-polished sheen to last longer.
Wipe Spills Quickly
Like all busy spaces, kitchens have spills. Of course, drinks like wine, coffee, or juice stain the surfaces if sitting too long, and oils and acidic items like lemon juice can damage the shine of natural stone as well. The best approach is to always wipe up spills as they happen. A quick swipe with a soft cloth can save you damage and keep the surface fresh and clean.
Avoid Harsh Scrubbing Tools
While using steel wool or coarse scrubbing pads to remove tough spots may feel efficient, steel wool and abrasive pads can scratch and dull surfaces. Every time you reach for any of these tools, think of residential countertops as a surface that can be scratched. Use microfiber cloths, sponges, or non-abrasive pads on countertops, and try a gentle paste made of baking soda with a little water for cleaning tough spots. This natural cleaning solution is safe to use if done properly. Cleaning away spots lightly and gently goes a long way in maintaining the shine of a surface to support long-term use.
Use Proper Daily Habits
Countertop maintenance encompasses more than just cleaning products; it also includes how you use that surface. Do not stand or sit on the countertop because over time it will cause cracking or loosen the surface, causing it to move or become weakened. Do not slide your appliances across counters, and remember to lift rather than slide checks, because it reduces scratches and general wear on the surface. When you develop better habits in daily use, your countertops will last incredibly long.
Schedule Professional Care When Needed
Even with regular care, countertops sometimes need professional attention. Deep cleaning, polishing, or resealing done by experts can refresh the shine and fix minor wear. For homeowners with marble or granite, professional polishing can restore the natural gloss that fades after years of use. While it is not something needed often, scheduling professional care every few years is a smart way to keep countertops looking brand new.
Enjoying Long-Lasting Beauty
Countertops are a valuable investment in any home, and they deserve proper care. By cleaning regularly, sealing when needed, and following simple habits, you can keep your countertops shining beautifully for many years. A little effort goes a long way in preserving both the functionality and the style of your space. With expert maintenance tips, your countertops will remain the highlight of your kitchen or bathroom for decades.
High-Quality Solid Stone Countertops in West Michigan
At Kowalski Granite & Quartz, we have an unparalleled selection of granite, quartz, and solid stone countertops for your home. At any given time, our West Michigan showroom holds over 200 full slabs in over 80 color variations, including granite, quartz, quartzite, and eco-friendly recycled materials. Come stop by today—no appointment necessary!