Stone worktops add a timeless elegance to kitchens, bathrooms, and other spaces, enhancing both style and functionality. However, to keep your stone surfaces looking as beautiful as the day they were installed, regular care and maintenance are essential. Here’s a guide to maintaining various types of stone worktops, from quartz and granite to marble and Dekton, with tips on cleaning, avoiding stains, and preventing scratches.
1. Daily Cleaning for Stone Worktops
Keeping stone worktops clean on a daily basis is key to preserving their appearance and preventing buildup of dust, dirt, and spills. Here are some general guidelines for daily cleaning:
- Use Mild Soap and Water: For most stone types, a gentle mix of dish soap and warm water is effective. Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface, then rinse with clean water and dry with a microfiber cloth to avoid water spots.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of acidic or abrasive cleaners, as these can dull the finish or damage the stone over time. Cleaners containing vinegar, lemon juice, or bleach are best avoided.
2. Preventing Stains on Stone Worktops
Stone surfaces, especially those with porous properties like marble and granite, are susceptible to stains if not properly maintained. Here’s how to avoid common staining issues:
- Seal Porous Stones: Natural stones like granite and marble benefit from regular sealing to protect them from staining. Check with your supplier to determine the recommended frequency, but generally, sealing every 6–12 months is advisable. Quartz and Dekton are non-porous and don’t require sealing, making them naturally more stain-resistant.
- Wipe Spills Immediately: Coffee, wine, oil, and acidic foods like citrus can stain stone if left sitting. Wipe up spills as soon as they occur to prevent them from seeping into the surface.
- Use Coasters and Trivets: Protect your worktop by placing coasters under glasses and trivets under hot pans. This helps to prevent both staining and heat damage.
3. Avoiding Scratches and Chips
While stone worktops are generally durable, they are not entirely scratch-proof. Taking a few precautions can help you avoid scratches and keep your surface looking smooth and polished:
- Use Cutting Boards: Avoid cutting or chopping directly on the stone surface, as this can lead to scratches, particularly on softer stones like marble. Always use a cutting board to protect both the stone and your knives.
- Be Cautious with Heavy Objects: Dropping heavy items on the worktop can cause chipping, especially along the edges. Take care when moving heavy cookware or appliances to avoid accidental impacts.
- Choose Soft Cleaning Tools: Avoid abrasive scrubbers or steel wool, as these can scratch the surface. Instead, use soft sponges, microfiber cloths, or soft-bristle brushes for cleaning.
4. Specific Care Tips for Different Types of Stone
Each type of stone has unique properties, and caring for each correctly will ensure the longest life and best appearance:
Quartz
- Non-Porous and Low Maintenance: Quartz is non-porous, making it resistant to staining and bacterial buildup. A simple wipe with mild soap and water is usually enough for daily cleaning.
- Avoid High Heat: While quartz is heat-resistant, it’s best to use trivets for hot pots and pans, as sudden temperature changes can cause cracking.
Granite
- Seal Regularly: Granite is porous and requires sealing to maintain its stain resistance. Sealing every 6–12 months is recommended.
- Clean with Neutral pH Cleaners: Use pH-neutral or stone-safe cleaners to avoid dulling the surface.
Marble
- Extra Care for a Softer Stone: Marble is softer and more prone to scratches and etching from acidic substances. Use cutting boards, avoid placing acidic foods directly on the surface, and consider using marble-safe cleaners.
- Regular Sealing: Like granite, marble benefits from sealing to prevent stains and maintain its appearance.
Dekton
- Highly Resistant to Stains and Heat: Dekton is exceptionally resistant to stains, heat, and scratches, making it a low-maintenance option. Daily cleaning with mild soap and water is typically all that’s required.
- Avoid Impact on Edges: Dekton’s ultra-compact surface is durable, but edges can chip if impacted by heavy objects, so take care around the edges.
5. Polishing and Enhancing the Shine of Stone Worktops
Over time, stone worktops can lose their shine due to daily wear. Here’s how to keep them looking polished:
- Use Stone Polish: For certain stones, a specialised stone polish can help restore shine. Be sure to select a polish that is compatible with your stone type, and use sparingly to avoid buildup.
- Avoid Wax: Wax-based products are not recommended for stone surfaces, as they can create a sticky residue and attract dust.
- Professional Buffing for Natural Stones: For natural stones like marble and granite, professional polishing can help bring back the surface’s original lustre if it becomes dull over time.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Stone Worktop Looking Beautiful
Caring for your stone worktop doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple tips for daily cleaning, preventing stains and scratches, and using the appropriate care for your specific type of stone, you can keep your worktop looking as good as new. Stone worktops are an investment, and with the right care, they’ll reward you with lasting beauty and functionality in your home.
At Matai Stone, we offer a wide range of premium stone worktops and can guide you through choosing and maintaining the perfect material for your space. Contact us today to learn more about our stone options and how to care for them.
