A: Maintaining granite, quartz and marble countertops requires some care to ensure they stay in good condition. Here’s a breakdown of how to maintain each:

Granite Countertops:

  • 1

    Daily Cleaning: Use warm water and a gentle dish soap to clean the surface. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads that could scratch the surface.

  • 2

    Sealing: Granite is porous and should be sealed regularly, typically once a year, to prevent staining. You can check if it needs resealing by placing a few drops of water on the surface—if it beads up, it’s sealed; if it soaks in, it needs resealing.

  • 3

    Avoid Heat: Though granite is heat-resistant, avoid placing hot pans directly on the surface to prevent potential cracking or discoloration.

  • 4

    Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of strong acidic or alkaline cleaners, which can degrade the stone over time.

  • 5

    Fix Chips: If your granite develops chips, you can usually get them repaired by a professional.

Quartz Countertops:

  • 1

    Daily Cleaning: Wipe down with a mild dish soap and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.

  • 2

    Avoid Heat: While quartz is heat-resistant, it’s best to use trivets or heat pads to prevent damage from hot pots and pans.

  • 3

    Avoid Scratching: Quartz is durable, but sharp objects like knives can scratch the surface. Always use cutting boards.

  • 4

    Stain Prevention: While quartz is non-porous and resistant to stains, spills should be cleaned promptly to avoid buildup.

  • 5

    No Sealing Needed: Unlike granite and marble, quartz does not require sealing.

Marble Countertops:

  • 1

    Daily Cleaning: Clean marble with a soft cloth and a pH-balanced cleaner (preferably made for stone). Avoid acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon juice, which can damage the marble.

  • 2

    Sealing: Marble is porous and should be sealed every 6-12 months to prevent staining. You can check if the marble needs resealing by placing a few drops of water on the surface—if it soaks in, it needs resealing.

  • 3

    Avoid Scratches: Marble can scratch easily, so always use cutting boards and avoid abrasive pads when cleaning.

  • 4

    Prevent Stains: Marble is prone to staining from acidic substances like wine, coffee, and citrus. Clean spills immediately to avoid permanent marks.

  • 5

    Avoid Heat: Like granite, marble can handle some heat, but it’s best to use trivets for hot pots or pans to prevent surface damage.

General Tips for All Countertops:

  • Use Trivets and Cutting Boards: Always use protective pads, trivets, and cutting boards to avoid direct contact with hot items or sharp objects.

  • Clean Spills Immediately: This is especially important for marble, as spills like wine or citrus can leave stains.

  • Use Coasters: Prevent stains from drinks by using coasters or placemats on your countertops.