Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Stone Benchtops Looking New
Stone benchtops bring timeless beauty and elegance to any home. Whether it’s a sleek quartz surface in your kitchen or a luxurious marble slab in your bathroom, stone is a popular choice for its durability and aesthetic appeal. But even the toughest materials need a little TLC.
Maintaining your stone benchtops doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a few simple habits, you can keep your benchtops looking brand-new for years to come.
1. Clean Up Spills Immediately
Accidents happen, someone spills coffee, juice, or red wine. It’s easy to think, “I’ll clean that later,” but with stone benchtops, it’s better to act fast. Liquids, especially acidic ones like lemon juice or vinegar, can stain or etch the surface if left for too long.
To prevent this, grab a soft cloth or paper towel and gently blot the spill right away. Then, wipe the area with warm water and a little mild detergent. Quick action goes a long way in keeping your stone stain-free.
2. Use the Right Cleaners
Not all cleaning products are stone-friendly. Harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive powders can damage the surface or strip away sealants, leaving your benchtop looking dull.
Stick to pH-balanced, non-abrasive cleaners. You can even make your own gentle solution using warm water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Wipe the benchtop with a microfiber cloth for the best results.
3. Seal Natural Stone Every Year
If you have granite, marble, or other natural stone, sealing is essential. A good sealant acts as a barrier against moisture, oil, and other potential stains. While engineered stone like quartz doesn’t usually need sealing, natural stones benefit greatly from it.
As a rule of thumb, reseal every 12 to 18 months, or sooner if water starts soaking in rather than beading on the surface. You can do a simple water-drop test to check.
4. Protect from Heat and Sharp Objects
Stone can handle heat, but it’s not immune to thermal shock. Placing a hot pot directly from the stove onto your benchtop can cause cracks or discoloration. Always use a trivet, mat, or heat pad to avoid heat damage.
AAlso, never cut directly on your benchtop. Not only will this damage your knives, but it can also scratch the stone. A cutting board is your benchtop’s best friend.
5. Wipe Down Daily
Dust, crumbs, and grease can make your benchtop look tired. A quick wipe-down at the end of the day helps keep it looking clean and fresh. Plus, it’s a simple habit that takes less than a minute.
Make Your Benchtop Last a Lifetime
Your stone benchtop is a statement piece, and an investment. Taking care of it doesn’t require much effort, but the payoff is huge. With just a few easy habits, you can enjoy its beauty and functionality for many years.
If you are thinking about installing or upgrading your stone benchtops. Reach out to the experts at Made in Stone today. We’re here to guide you, from choosing the right material to expert installation and aftercare tips.