Quartz is relatively low-maintenance. 

Dos for Cleaning Quartz Countertops:

Daily Cleaning with Mild Soap and Water:

• Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a gentle dish soap. This is sufficient for everyday spills and messes.
• Wipe in circular motions to ensure thorough cleaning.

Use a Non-Abrasive Cleaner:

• Specifically formulated quartz cleaners are available and safe for regular use.
• Look for cleaners that are pH-neutral.

Blot Spills Immediately:

• Even though quartz is stain-resistant, prompt cleanup prevents potential staining, especially from highly pigmented liquids like red wine or juice.

Use a Soft Cloth or Sponge:

Microfiber cloths are excellent for cleaning quartz, as they are gentle and effective at removing dirt and grime.

• Apply a Glass Cleaner:
• For extra shine, a non-ammonia based glass cleaner can be used.

Don’ts for Quartz Counters

Use Abrasive Cleaners or Scrubbers:

• Avoid steel wool, scouring pads, and harsh scrubbing powders, as they can scratch or dull the surface of your quartz countertop.

Use Strong Chemicals:

• Avoid using bleach, ammonia, oven cleaners, or other harsh chemicals, as they can damage the resin that binds the quartz crystals.

Expose to Extreme Heat:

• While quartz is heat-resistant, it's not heatproof. Avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on the countertop. Always use hot pads or trivets.

Use Highly Acidic or Alkaline Cleaners:

Products that contain high levels of acids or alkalis can damage the surface of the quartz.

• Use Permanent Markers:
• Permanent markers can stain the quartz. If this happens, use a quartz safe cleaner as soon as possible.

Granite requires periodic sealing to prevent staining. 

Dos for Cleaning Granite Countertops:

Daily Cleaning with Mild Soap and Water: Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a gentle dish soap. This removes daily grime and spills effectively.

• Ensure you dry the surface thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots.

Regular Sealing: Granite is porous and requires periodic sealing to prevent stains and etching. The frequency depends on the type of granite and sealant used.

• Perform a water test: If water absorbs quickly into the stone, it's time to reseal.
• Use a high-quality granite sealer specifically designed for countertops.

Use Cutting Boards and Hot Pads: While granite is durable, sharp objects can scratch the surface. Always use cutting boards for food preparation.

• Place hot pots and pans on hot pads or trivets to prevent thermal shock and potential damage.

Promptly Wipe Up Spills: Acidic spills (lemon juice, vinegar, wine) can etch or stain granite. Wipe them up immediately.

Use a soft cloth or sponge to blot the spill, avoiding rubbing.

• Dust Regularly: Dust with a soft cloth to keep the surface free of abrasive particles.

Don’ts for Granite Counters

Use Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals, as they can damage the sealant and etch the stone.

• Do not use abrasive cleaners or scrub pads, as they can scratch the surface.

Use Generic Cleaners: Avoid general purpose cleaners that aren't designed for natural stone. They might contain chemicals that will damage the stone.

Leave Spills Sitting: Never leave spills, especially acidic ones, to sit on the surface for extended periods.

This can lead to staining or etching, which may be difficult or impossible to remove.

• Cut Directly on the Countertop: Even though granite is hard, it is possible to scratch the surface with enough force.
• Place Hot Items Directly on the Countertop: Although granite is heat resistant, extreme temperature changes can cause cracking.
• Use DIY Sealants that are not designed for stone: Using the wrong type of sealant can cause discoloration, or prevent the stone from breathing correctly.

Marble countertops are a luxurious addition to any kitchen or bathroom, but their natural beauty requires diligent care to prevent damage.

Dos for Cleaning Marble Countertops:

Daily Cleaning with Mild Soap and Water:

• Use a soft cloth or sponge dampened with warm water and a pH-neutral dish soap to gently clean the surface.
• This removes everyday dust, spills, and grime without damaging the marble.

Blot Spills Immediately:

• Marble is porous and susceptible to staining, so promptly blot spills with a clean, dry cloth.
• This prevents liquids from soaking into the stone and causing permanent discoloration.

Use Coasters and Placemats:

• Place coasters under glasses and placemats under plates to protect the marble from scratches and acidic spills.
• This creates a barrier against potential damage.

Dust Regularly:

Use a soft, dry cloth or a microfiber duster to remove dust and debris from the surface.

This prevents abrasive particles from scratching the marble.

• Seal Periodically:
• Apply a high-quality natural stone sealer according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• This creates a protective barrier against stains and moisture.

Don’ts for Marble Counters

Use Acidic Cleaners:

• Avoid cleaners containing vinegar, lemon juice, or other acidic substances, as they can etch and dull the marble surface.
• This includes many common household cleaners.

Use Abrasive Cleaners or Scrubbers:

• Do not use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or steel wool, as they can scratch and damage the marble.
• This includes powder based cleaners.

Leave Spills Sitting:

• Never leave spills sitting on the marble surface, especially acidic liquids or staining substances like wine or coffee.
• This can lead to permanent stains and etching.

Place Hot Pots or Pans Directly on the Marble:

Avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on the marble, as extreme heat can cause thermal shock and cracking.

Always use hot pads or trivets.

• Use Bleach or Harsh Chemicals:
• Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals, as they can damage the marble's finish and cause discoloration.
• These products can break down the stone.