Stone custom countertops add beauty and functionality to your home. Whether you choose slate, marble, or quartz, they can last for decades with proper care. Follow these do’s and don’ts for maintaining your stone counters.

Do:

Clean spills immediately.

While most stone countertops are sealed to protect against water damage, avoid stains by cleaning up spills right away, especially of coffee, red wine, or other dark or acidic liquids like lemonade or tomato juice. Use a paper towel to blot the stain, rather than wipe (and spread) it with a cloth. If a stain does set, use a stone cleaning powder that is safe for use with your counter’. 

Have tops resealed regularly.

To help your custom countertops last as long as possible, test periodically to see if they need to be resealed. If water doesn’t bead up on a clean, dry surface, then it’s time to reapply a sealant specific to the type of stone you have. Clean all surfaces and apply the sealant in small sections and let it dry as directed by the product instructions. When a few drops of water bead on the counter, move on to the next area. Test this every few months and reapply as needed.

Don’t:

Put hot items directly on the stone counter.

Use trivets and coasters to protect the stone surface from hot pots and pans. While some materials, such as soapstone, are heat resistant, others may show spots or stains where hot items have been placed. 

Use harsh or acidic cleansers.

Always use a stone cleaner or a solution of mild dish soap and warm water to clean counters, rather than bleach or other harsh cleansers. Acidic substances, even natural vinegar or lemon juice, can eat away at the sealant and the natural stone. Avoid using sponges with scraping surfaces and never use steel wool to clean the stone surface.

Maintaining your stone countertops regularly will help them last a lifetime. Family-owned and -operated since 2003, Rino’s Tile & Stone provides custom countertops for the kitchen and bathrooms of residents of Anchorage County, AK, and the surrounding areas. They are licensed installers of top stone and tile brands, with options like slate, quartz, granite, soapstone, limestone, and stone tile. Call (907) 743-1075 for an estimate or visit the website to see a full list of their services.