How to Keep Your Countertops Long-Lasting: What to Avoid

1. Avoid Using Harsh Chemical Cleaners

Many harsh cleaning products, such as bleach, ammonia, and acidic cleaners, can damage the surface of your countertop. These chemicals can cause discoloration, dullness, or even weaken the material over time.

Tip: Opt for a mild, non-abrasive cleaner and avoid anything that contains bleach or ammonia. For natural stone countertops, like granite or marble, it's best to use a cleaner specifically designed for stone surfaces.

2. Don’t Use Your Countertop as a Cutting Board

While granite and quartz countertops are durable, they aren’t impervious to scratches. Cutting directly on your countertop can cause permanent damage to the surface and lead to unsightly scratches.

Tip: Always use a cutting board when chopping, slicing, or dicing food. This will help preserve the surface of your countertop and keep it looking new.

3. Avoid Placing Hot Pots or Pans Directly on the Countertop

While materials like granite and quartz can withstand heat to some extent, they’re not completely heatproof. Placing hot pots, pans, or dishes directly on your countertop can cause burns, cracks, or discoloration.

Tip: Always use trivets, hot pads, or cooling racks to protect your countertop from high temperatures. If you want extra protection, consider using a heat-resistant countertop material like quartz, which handles heat better than other stones.

4. Don’t Leave Spills on the Countertop for Too Long

Spills from liquids like coffee, wine, citrus juices, or vinegar can seep into porous countertop surfaces, especially in materials like marble and granite. Over time, this can lead to staining and damage.

Tip: Wipe up spills immediately to prevent liquids from soaking into the surface. For stone countertops, apply a protective sealant to help prevent stains from setting in.

5. Avoid Using Abrasive Scrubbers or Steel Wool

Using abrasive sponges, steel wool, or rough scrubbers can scratch and dull your countertop surface. This is especially important for softer stones like marble and granite.

Tip: Use a soft cloth or sponge to clean your countertops and avoid using anything too harsh. For stubborn stains, try using a gentle, stone-safe cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water.

6. Don’t Forget to Seal Natural Stone Countertops Regularly

Natural stone countertops, such as granite and marble, are porous and can absorb liquids, leading to stains or even damage. If you don’t seal these surfaces regularly, you risk compromising their durability.

Tip: Make sure to seal your natural stone countertops at least once a year. The frequency of sealing may depend on the type of stone and how much use the countertop gets. Ask your countertop supplier for recommendations on the best sealants.

7. Avoid Excessive Weight or Pressure on the Countertop

Granite, quartz, and marble are all strong materials, but they can crack or chip if subjected to excessive weight or pressure. Avoid standing on the countertops or placing heavy objects on them that could cause damage.

Tip: Be mindful of where you place heavy appliances or items, and never stand or kneel on your countertops.

8. Don’t Use Countertops as a Storage Space

While it may be tempting to store heavy kitchen appliances, such as blenders or mixers, directly on your countertops, this can lead to scratches, dents, or other surface damage over time.

Tip: Store heavy appliances in cabinets or on kitchen shelves to keep your countertops clear and free from unnecessary wear.

9. Avoid Exposing Your Countertop to Extreme Temperatures

While some countertop materials can handle heat and cold better than others, extreme temperature fluctuations can cause cracks or other surface damage. For example, rapidly changing temperatures from freezing to hot can cause granite to crack.

Tip: Try to avoid exposing your countertop to extreme heat or cold by placing hot items or frozen products directly on it.

10. Don’t Skip Professional Maintenance

Sometimes, even the most diligent care can’t prevent the wear and tear that comes with everyday use. Certain materials, like granite and marble, may require professional maintenance, such as resealing or polishing.

Tip: Schedule a professional maintenance service for your countertops to keep them in optimal condition. Regular upkeep will help preserve their beauty and extend their lifespan.

Conclusion

Your kitchen countertops are a significant investment, and by following a few simple guidelines, you can ensure that they stay beautiful and functional for years to come. Avoiding harsh chemicals, not using the surface as a cutting board, and protecting it from heat and stains are just a few ways you can extend the life of your countertops. If you’re looking to invest in high-quality, durable countertops, Amaztone offers a range of materials—including granite, quartz, marble, and more—customized to fit your space and needs. With proper care and maintenance, your countertops will continue to enhance the beauty and functionality of your kitchen for many years.