Your New Countertops Deserve the Right Care — Here Is How to Keep Them Looking Perfect
At PSI Tops, we do not just install beautiful countertops — we want to make sure they stay beautiful for decades. As the owner of a countertop fabrication company that has been serving Utah homeowners since 1968, I have seen firsthand how the right care routine can keep a surface looking brand new, and how the wrong habits can cause unnecessary damage.
Whether you recently invested in quartz countertops, granite countertops, marble, or any other material, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to protect your investment. Consider this your complete countertop maintenance playbook — built from real-world experience right here in Utah.
How to Clean and Maintain Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are one of the most popular choices we install for Utah homeowners, and for good reason. They are engineered to be non-porous, stain-resistant, and incredibly durable. But that does not mean they are indestructible.
Daily cleaning:
- Wipe down with a soft cloth or sponge using warm water and a mild dish soap
- Avoid abrasive scrubbers or scouring pads — they can dull the finish over time
- For dried spills, use a plastic scraper to gently lift residue before wiping
What to avoid on quartz:
- Harsh chemicals — bleach, oven cleaners, and products with high pH levels can break down the resin binders
- Excessive heat — always use trivets or hot pads. Quartz can discolor or crack from direct contact with hot pans, especially in Utah kitchens where we cook at altitude and pans get hotter
- Permanent markers and dyes — while quartz resists most stains, concentrated dyes can be difficult to remove if left sitting
How to Clean and Maintain Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are a natural stone, which means they are porous and require a bit more attention than engineered surfaces. The good news is that with a simple routine, granite will last a lifetime.
Daily cleaning:
- Use warm water with a few drops of dish soap and a soft cloth
- Dry the surface after cleaning to prevent water spots, especially in areas with Utah hard water
- For stubborn stains, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and let it sit overnight
Sealing your granite:
- Granite should be sealed once every 12 to 18 months to maintain its stain resistance
- Test if your granite needs resealing by placing a few drops of water on the surface — if the water soaks in within five minutes, it is time to reseal
- Use a granite-specific sealer and follow the manufacturer instructions
If you are unsure whether your granite needs sealing, feel free to contact us — we are always happy to advise our customers.
How to Clean and Maintain Marble Countertops
Marble countertops are stunning, but they do require the most careful maintenance of any surface we install. Marble is a softer, more porous natural stone that is particularly sensitive to acids.
Essential marble care tips:
- Clean with a pH-neutral stone cleaner — never use vinegar, lemon juice, or acidic household cleaners
- Wipe up spills immediately, especially wine, coffee, citrus, and tomato-based sauces
- Seal marble every 6 to 12 months to provide a protective barrier against staining
- Use coasters under all glasses and place mats under dishes to prevent etching
Marble develops a natural patina over time that many homeowners actually come to love. But if you prefer to keep it looking pristine, consistent maintenance is key.
How to Maintain Laminate and Solid Surface Countertops
If you chose laminate countertops or solid surface countertops, you are in luck — these are some of the easiest surfaces to maintain.
For laminate:
- Clean with warm soapy water or a non-abrasive household cleaner
- Avoid placing hot pots directly on the surface — use trivets to prevent scorching or delamination
- Use a cutting board to prevent scratches, as laminate cannot be repaired once deeply scored
For solid surface:
- Clean with soapy water or an ammonia-based cleaner for tougher spots
- Minor scratches can be buffed out with a fine-grit sandpaper or Scotch-Brite pad — one of the major advantages of solid surface
- Avoid prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals or solvents
Universal Countertop Care Tips Every Utah Homeowner Should Follow
Regardless of which countertop material you chose, these habits will help you get the most life out of your investment:
- Always use cutting boards — even on hard surfaces like granite and quartz, knives can leave micro-scratches that accumulate over time
- Use trivets and hot pads — thermal shock is one of the leading causes of countertop damage we see in Utah homes
- Clean up spills promptly — the faster you address a spill, the less chance it has to stain or etch
- Avoid sitting or standing on countertops — they are designed to support distributed weight, not concentrated pressure points
- Watch for hard water buildup — Utah is known for hard water. Wipe down areas around the sink regularly to prevent mineral deposits
Protect Your Investment with Quartzite Countertops
One material I want to highlight is quartzite. Many Utah homeowners confuse quartzite with quartz, but they are very different. Quartzite is a natural stone that is harder than granite and offers incredible heat resistance. It does need to be sealed like granite, but once sealed, it is remarkably low maintenance and stands up beautifully to the demands of a busy family kitchen.
If you are exploring your options, our Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Countertop Material breaks down every option in detail.
When to Call the Professionals
Most countertop care is straightforward, but there are times when you should bring in the experts:
- Deep stains that will not respond to home remedies
- Chips or cracks in natural stone
- Seam separations or areas where caulk has deteriorated
- If your countertops have lost their shine and need professional polishing
At PSI Tops, we stand behind every installation we do. If you are experiencing any issues with your countertops — whether we installed them or not — reach out to our team. We are always here to help Utah homeowners take care of their surfaces.
Keep Your Countertops Looking Like New for Years to Come
Your countertops are one of the most visible and most used surfaces in your home. Taking a few minutes each day to care for them properly will pay off for years — keeping them beautiful, functional, and adding value to your home.
If you are ready for new countertops or cabinets, or if you have questions about maintaining your current surfaces, contact PSI Tops today. Visit our showroom at 1640 South Redwood Road in Salt Lake City, or give us a call at (801) 746-1212.
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