We stain, nick, splash and prep our meals on them. So, don’t our kitchen countertops deserve a little extra love and attention beyond the routine swipe, wipe, and scrub? To stay in top shape while providing a sanitary cooking environment these culinary workhorses each require specific care to ensure longevity and durability. Whatever the surface — from granite to marble to quartz to stainless steel to butcher’s block — read on for sustainable tips to properly clean countertops.
How to Clean Granite Countertops
Granite is among the most durable and stylish surfaces, but it requires regular care to look its absolute best. Beyond resealing your granite countertops annually to support a hygienic and stain-resistant surface, follow these regular cleaning tips.
To clean granite countertops:
- Combine a small amount of mild dish soap and warm water.
- Use the solution and a cloth to wipe down the surface in circular motions.
- You can then disinfect with a solution of isopropyl alcohol and water in a spray bottle. Spray lightly and wipe it dry.
Be sure to avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners like vinegar and bleach, as they can dull or etch the stone.
How to Clean Marble Countertops
Marble countertops certainly add elegance and sophistication to any kitchen, but they are susceptible to etching and staining if you’re not careful. Here’s what you can do to maintain them. To clean marble countertops:
- Use a gentle, pH-neutral dish soap or marble cleaner combined with warm water.
- Take a microfiber cloth and dunk it into the solution before wiping down the marble surface in a circular motion.
- Rinse the cloth and wipe the surface again to remove any remaining soap.
- Pat dry to avoid any watermarks on the marble.
Just as you would with a granite countertop, avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners including vinegar and bleach, as they can damage the delicate surface of the marble.
How to Maintain Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are excellent in both durability and low maintenance, built to withstand daily use without needing a lot of upkeep. Follow these kitchen cleaning tips to keep your quartz counter sparking.
To clean quartz countertops:
- Use a dollop of mild dish soap combined with warm water or a non-abrasive cleaner.
- Using the solution, gently clean in circular motions with a soft cloth.
- You can further disinfect with a solution of isopropyl alcohol and water in a spray bottle. Spray lightly and wipe it dry.
Quartz doesn’t need to be sealed annually, so these countertops are much easier to maintain than natural stone alternatives. However, do remember to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can gradually damage the surface of the quartz.
How to Clean Stainless Steel Countertops
For a sleek and modern appearance, stainless steel countertops are a popular choice for hectic kitchens. But they are known to show fingerprints and water spots if you aren’t extremely careful when attending to them. To clean stainless steel countertops:
- Combine a mild dish soap with warm water, or use stainless-steel cleaner.
- Dip a cloth in the solution or spray the counter with the stainless-steel cleaner before gently scrubbing in circular motions to pick up any stuck food, crumbs, or sticky marks.
- Buff with a soft, dry cloth to get rid of streaks and watermarks.
- Periodically apply a stainless-steel motion to preserve the luster of your countertops.
Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads since they can scratch the surface of stainless steel. When you encounter stubborn food residue or baked-on stains, use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad or sponge to gently remove it.
How to Care For Butcher Block Countertops
Butcher block countertops have a warm and rustic feel, but they do require regular maintenance to prevent staining and bacterial growth. Let’s get into how to clean wooden countertops. To clean butcher block countertops:
- Use a soft cloth to wipe off any loose debris.
- Disinfect by using a spray bottle of white vinegar on the surface. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes before completing the next steps.
- Combine a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water in a bowl.
- Dip a cloth or sponge in the bowl and scrub the countertops with the solution.
You don’t want to soak the wood or use harsh chemicals when working with butcher block counters. For tough stains, you can create a natural paste of baking soda and water and gently scrub the area. To protect the wood and prevent drying or cracking, apply a food-safe mineral oil or beeswax conditioner to the butcher's block every few months.
With proper care and maintenance, you can ensure your kitchen countertops remain both beautiful and functional. Whether you prefer the natural beauty of stone or the sleek appearance of stainless steel, there’s a countertop option to suit every style and budget —and with these tips and tricks, you should be able to keep them sparkling for years to come.