Low MaintenanceYou’re probably chuckling at this if you have a porous stone such as travertine, but many stone and stone-inspired countertops require little maintenance. Clean a countertop made of sealed natural stone, engineered stone or laminate with mild soap and water. Stay away from ammonia, alkaline detergents or vinegar, Barclay says, unless you’re cleaning ultra-compact surfaces. “You can pretty much use anything on those,” she says. Talk to your countertop supplier about the best resealing schedule. Granite, such as the island countertop seen here, might need resealing every few years. Test areas of high use every so often with water; if the water beads, the seal is fine. If you have soft stone countertops, use sealants and cleaners made specifically for porous stone, and avoid acid and staining agents. “Marble will develop a natural patina, but it can feel imperfect on its way,” Barclay says. No matter which countertop you choose, use a cutting board — especially on laminate, which scores easily. Other materials can dull your knives.Statement makers and performance heroes, stone and stone-inspired countertops can be kitchen design gold.More: To learn more about stone and ...
Low MaintenanceYou’re probably chuckling at this if you have a porous stone such as travertine, but many stone and stone-inspired countertops require little maintenance. Clean a countertop made of sealed natural stone, engineered stone or laminate with mild soap and water. Stay away from ammonia, alkaline detergents or vinegar, Barclay says, unless you’re cleaning ultra-compact surfaces. “You can pretty much use anything on those,” she says. Talk to your countertop supplier about the best resealing schedule. Granite, such as the island countertop seen here, might need resealing every few years. Test areas of high use every so often with water; if the water beads, the seal is fine. If you have soft stone countertops, use sealants and cleaners made specifically for porous stone, and avoid acid and staining agents. “Marble will develop a natural patina, but it can feel imperfect on its way,” Barclay says. No matter which countertop you choose, use a cutting board — especially on laminate, which scores easily. Other materials can dull your knives.Statement makers and performance heroes, stone and stone-inspired countertops can be kitchen design gold.More: To learn more about stone and ...
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