No doubt, the surface of your counters take a beating. Daily use when cooking and preparing meals will extract its toll, but if yours are like mine, they also become a catch all for mail, keys, bags and more which go sliding across the surface.

A beautiful countertop is a showpiece, and an investment. As it is the first thing that catches your eye when you walk into your kitchen, you’ll want to keep them looking their best with the right care and cleaning methods.

But with so many varieties of countertop surfaces out there, what’s right for yours? Our guide will help you choose the best products and practices for your particular countertop:

Marble or Granite

These high-end countertop materials are popular for their beauty and durability. They are relatively easy to care for, are heat tolerant and scratch resistant. The most important part of caring for marble or granite is keeping anything acidic away from these surfaces. Products that contain citrus or vinegar should not be used as they can cause damage. Use a formulated cleaner specifically for granite or marble, or simple dish soap and a soft cloth. Marble and granite are porous materials and will need to be sealed regularly. Follow the instructions on the bottle, and seal reseal according to that product’s recommendations. 

Engineered Stone

Quartz and quartzite are abundant in the earth’s crust, and are used as the foundational material in engineered stone countertops. They are very popular in kitchens due to their durability, as well as their aesthetic – they can be manufactured into virtually unlimited color schemes and patterns. These countertops are porous, so regular sealing will be necessary for longevity. Always make sure to use trivets and cooling racks, as engineered stone is not heat resistant to a high temperature and will become damaged if hot pots or pans are placed directly on the surface. To keep clean, dish soap and a microfiber cloth can be used, or look for special cleaners designed for engineered stone. 

Butcher Block

Part of our kitchen countertop is butcher block, and I adore it. Not only is it attractive and wood can help soften the look of one’s kitchen space, but it is possible to work directly on the countertop to prepare pie dough, pizza dough, homemade pastas and more. Because food often comes directly in contact with the wood surface, it is important to keep it clean, and not use any harsh cleaners or chemicals that could leave a residue on the surface. Wash butcher block with water and dish soap, then wipe clean to remove the soap and allow them to air dry. A baking soda paste can be used to help remove an especially tough stain, however, it is important to first test it in a small, discrete area to ensure it will not damage your wood’s natural coloration or the finish. Butcher block must be oiled regularly to keep it from drying out. I like using coconut oil, but mineral oil can be used as well. 

Soapstone

Soapstone is much softer than marble or granite, so you’ll need to be careful about scratches and nicks from pots or pans, or other objects that may get placed on the counter. It is non-porous, so sealers are not necessary, but you can use an oil designed to keep the soapstone shiny. To keep it clean, simply use dish soap and a soft sponge. Wipe it down, and for the best appearance dry it with a soft cloth. 

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is more common in restaurants and commercial kitchens, but every now and again I will see it in homes. Stainless steel is prone to scratching, so you will want to be careful about removing debris before wiping it down. Always use a soft, microfiber cloth and special stainless steel cleaner. Avoid using bleach, which can damage the surface. A stainless steel sealer can be used to help protect the countertop. To avoid seeing water spots, make sure to always dry the countertop with a soft cloth after it becomes wet.