Custom countertops are a great way to add style, color, and personality to a new kitchen design. When Anchorage-area homeowners are looking for a wide selection of natural stone slabs and durable man-made materials, they visit Rino’s Tile & Stone. Customers can choose from a variety of products, including granite, quartz, marble, and porcelain tile, to create a dream kitchen that fits into their budget. In addition to designing and fabricating beautiful kitchen countertops, the company offers fast installation services so your kitchen is ready to use when you need it.

Many homeowners choose their kitchen countertops based on appearance. And when you love the variations in a stone slab’s color and texture, you want to make sure the product always looks its best. The following tips will help make countertop maintenance more manageable.

3 Simple Tips For Maintaining Your Kitchen Countertops

1. Daily Care

Natural stone is porous, so be sure to wipe up spills as soon as they happen. Warm, soapy water is suitable for most kitchen countertop materials. Although homemade cleansers are becoming increasingly popular, the vinegar found in many of these DIY recipes can be harmful to natural stone. To prevent deeper discoloration, always use protection when placing hot pots and pans on the counter.

2. Periodic Care

Natural stone kitchen countertops will need to be disinfected periodically. You can make your own granite disinfectant by making a 50/50 solution of water and 90% isopropyl alcohol. Spray the solution on the countertop and let it sit for three to five minutes. For marble countertops, mix one tablespoon of non-abrasive liquid dish soap into a full spray bottle of warm water. To prevent etching, buff all natural stone kitchen countertops with soft microfiber towels.

3. Long-Term Care

Sealing your natural stone countertops reduces the risk of stains and heat damage. Your countertop installation experts can recommend a commercial product that is best suited for your material. How often you’ll need to reapply the sealant depends on the natural porosity of the slab you chose as well as the manufacturer’s instructions.

Visit Rino’s Tile & Stone online to learn more about their inventory and to find design inspiration. Call (907) 743-1075 to speak with a countertop expert about which materials are right for your home and lifestyle.