How to Clean Kitchen Countertops: Tips for Quartz, Granite, Laminate, & Butcher Block

Keeping your kitchen countertops clean isn’t just about appearances; it’s about maintaining their longevity, hygiene, and stain resistance. Each countertop material—whether quartz, granite, laminate, or butcher block—has unique characteristics, which means cleaning and maintenance methods vary. With the right methods, you can preserve their beauty and functionality for years to come. 

How to Clean Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are loved for their sleek designs, durability, and low maintenance. Since they are nonporous, they resist stains and bacteria—making them an ideal option for kitchens. 

Cleaning Solutions for Quartz

• Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner or simply water with mild dish soap.
• Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or acidic cleaners, as these can damage the resin in your quartz surface.

Cleaning Techniques

1. Wipe daily with a soft cloth or sponge and soapy water for everyday messes.
2. For tougher messes, carefully use a plastic scraper to gently remove stuck-on debris.

Cleaning Frequency

• Ideally, wipe your quartz countertops daily to keep them looking fresh. Promptly clean spills, particularly colored liquids like coffee or wine.

Got a busy household and looking for a virtually maintenance-free surface? Cambria quartz countertops, available at Zeeland Lumber & Supply, offer incredible durability and stunning, American-crafted designs. Cambria makes cleanup a breeze.

How to Clean Butcher Block Countertops

Butcher block countertops add warmth and charm but require more care due to their porous nature and susceptibility to moisture damage. 

Cleaning Solutions for Butcher Block

• Stick to mild dish soap and water for daily cleaning.
• Use white vinegar diluted with water for natural disinfecting.

Cleaning Techniques

1. Wipe spills immediately to prevent staining or warping.
2. Scrub gently along the wood grain with a damp cloth.
3. Occasionally, sand out light stains or scratches and reseal the wood with food-safe mineral oil.

Cleaning Frequency

• Clean daily after use and oil your butcher block every 1-3 months to seal and protect it from water damage.

How to Clean Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are an elegant, durable choice, but they require consistent maintenance to retain their polished appearance. 

Cleaning Solutions for Granite

• Use a specialized granite cleaner or a mix of neutral pH dish soap and water. Acidic cleaners, like lemon juice or vinegar, can damage the stone’s sealant.

Cleaning Techniques

1. Wipe daily with a soft, damp cloth and pH-neutral cleaning solution.
2. Dry with a microfiber towel to avoid streaks.
3. Reseal your granite annually to maintain its resistance to stains.

Cleaning Frequency

• Clean daily and reseal when water no longer beads on the surface.

How to Clean Laminate Countertops

A budget-friendly and versatile option, laminate countertops are easy to clean and maintain. However, proper care is still necessary to avoid scruffs and moisture damage. 

Cleaning Solutions for Laminate

• Use warm water combined with mild dish soap or an all-purpose cleaner that’s non-abrasive.
• Avoid abrasive scrubbers, which can scratch the surface, and steer clear of excessive moisture to prevent swelling.

Cleaning Techniques

1. Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth to remove debris and stains.
2. For stuck-on messes, use a plastic scraper gently to avoid damaging the laminated layer.

Cleaning Frequency

• Wipe daily after preparing food and keep the surface dry when not in use.

How to Handle Hard-to-Remove Countertop Stains

Some spills and stains might require more intensive solutions. Here’s how to tackle tough spots based on your countertop material.

Quartz Staining

Quartz is highly resistant to stains due to its nonporous surface, making it one of the least susceptible materials. Spills like coffee, wine, or oil can usually be cleaned up without leaving a mark if addressed quickly. However, certain chemicals, prolonged exposure to substances like permanent markers, or direct and extended exposure to heat can occasionally cause discoloration—and these stains often cannot be repaired and require replacement. To prevent heat from scorching the resins within quartz, make sure to use hot pads or trivets underneath your hot pots, pans, baking sheets, and slow cookers. 

How to Remove Quartz Stains

Use a paste of baking soda and water. Gently scrub in circles and rinse thoroughly. Generally, brands like Cambria or Wilsonart quartz countertops are resistant to even the toughest stains—making them a great option if you’re seeking durability and easy cleanup.

Butcher Block Staining

Butcher block is more susceptible to stains than nonporous surfaces due to its natural wood composition. Liquids can seep into the wood if not cleaned immediately or if the surface isn’t properly sealed. Stains from water, oil, or food can penetrate deeper over time, often requiring sanding or refinishing to remove.

How to Remove Butcher Block Stains

Sprinkle baking soda on the stain, then scrub gently with a damp cloth. For deep stains, sand the area lightly and reapply mineral oil. 

Granite Staining

Granite—though less porous than wood—is still somewhat susceptible to stains, particularly if not sealed properly. Spills such as wine, oil, or acidic substances like lemon juice can penetrate the surface and leave marks. A high-quality sealant significantly reduces the likelihood of staining and makes cleanup easier.

How to Remove Granite Stains

Use a poultice made of baking soda and water, or hydrogen peroxide for oil-based stains. Apply, cover with plastic wrap, and leave overnight before wiping clean. 

Laminate Staining

Laminate countertops are moderately resistant to stains due to their plastic-coated surface. However, they can stain if liquids seep into seams or if left in prolonged contact with substances like coffee, tea, or grease. Harsh scrubbing or abrasive cleaners can also damage the finish, making stains more challenging to remove over time.

How to Remove Laminate Stains

Create a mixture of mild dish detergent and baking soda. Apply to stains with a soft cloth, scrub gently, and rinse thoroughly. 

When to Consider Replacement Over Cleaning

While regular cleaning and maintenance can keep your countertops looking great and functioning well, there are situations where replacement may be the most practical—and sometimes necessary—solution. Attempting to salvage severely damaged countertops can lead to frustration and expense without achieving the desired results. 

Here are key indicators that it’s time to invest in new countertops:

• Chips, Cracks, or Deep Scratches: Structural damage like chips, cracks, or deep scratches not only affects the appearance of your countertops but can also compromise their functionality. These imperfections can harbor bacteria, become difficult to clean, and worsen over time. For materials like granite or quartz, significant cracks may indicate underlying structural issues or wear beyond repair.
• Persistent Stains: Stains that remain despite using specialized cleaning methods or materials suggest the damage has penetrated deep into the surface. This is common with porous materials like unsealed granite or butcher block, where substances like wine, oil, or coffee can seep in and create permanent discoloration. At this stage, replacement may be the only way to restore a clean and uniform look.
• Significant Water Damage: Water damage is especially problematic for butcher block or laminate. In butcher block, prolonged water exposure can cause warping, splitting, or mildew growth. Laminate countertops can delaminate or swell when water seeps into seams or edges. If water damage is extensive, repairing or refinishing the material is often not a viable option, and replacement is likely necessary.
• Outdated Appearance: Beyond functional concerns, your countertops may simply look outdated or worn beyond what cleaning or refinishing can fix. Discoloration, faded patterns, or a surface that has lost its luster can detract from your kitchen’s overall aesthetic. If cleaning or cosmetic touch-ups don’t refresh the look, upgrading to a modern, durable material can enhance your kitchen’s appearance (and even your home’s resale value).
• Food Safety Concerns: Countertops with cracks, deep scratches, or other damage can harbor bacteria and mold, creating health risks—especially in food preparation areas. Replacing these surfaces ensures a hygienic environment.

Cleaning Not Enough? We’re Here to Support Your New Countertop Needs

Now that you know how to clean kitchen countertops—the right way—are you ready to explore a new material? If you’re not sure which countertop material is right for your kitchen, Zeeland Lumber & Supply is here to help you through the selection process. Our curated collection ensures a style to match every taste and need. Contact our team today to request a quote.