Maintaining stone worktops isn’t an easy task. It requires understanding the unique properties of the material and the ways to keep it fresh.
This comprehensive guide offers detailed cleaning and maintenance instructions for Marble, Dekton, Ariastone, Artscut, Silestone, and Caesarstone surfaces, ensuring their longevity and beauty.
Marble Surfaces
Marble exudes timeless elegance but it’s a porous stone and susceptible to stains and scratches. Therefore, regular maintenance is essential to preserve its luxurious appearance.
Daily Cleaning:
To clean marble surfaces, use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a pH-neutral detergent. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the stone’s surface. After cleaning, thoroughly rinse and dry the area to prevent water spots.
Stain Removal:
If you have stubborn stains, creating a paste can be effective. Mix baking soda and apply it to the stain, then cover it with plastic wrap. Allow it to sit for 24 hours before gently removing the paste and rinsing the area. This method helps draw out deep-seated stains without harming the marble.
Preventative Measures:
Regularly sealing marble surfaces reduces their porosity, offering protection against spills and stains. Wipe up spills immediately to prevent potential damage, and use coasters, trivets, and placemats to shield the surface from scratches and heat.
Dekton Surfaces
Dekton is renowned for its durability and resistance to scratches, stains, and heat, making it a popular choice for high-traffic areas.
Daily Cleaning:
Maintain Dekton surfaces by wiping them with a damp microfiber cloth and mild soap. This routine helps preserve their appearance without causing wear.
Stain Removal:
For persistent stains, apply a limescale remover to the affected area and gently scrub with a non-abrasive pad in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry the surface to prevent residue buildup.
Preventative Measures:
While Dekton is heat-resistant, it’s advisable to use trivets under hot cookware to prevent potential thermal shock. Additionally, using cutting boards can protect both your utensils and the surface’s integrity.
Quartz Surfaces (Ariastone, Artscut, Silestone, Caesarstone)
Quartz surfaces are engineered to be non-porous, offering resistance to stains and ease of maintenance.
Daily Cleaning:
Clean quartz surfaces with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge using warm water and mild soap. This routine effectively removes most residues without damaging the surface.
Stain Removal:
For tougher stains, apply a non-abrasive cleaner to the area and gently rub with a soft cloth in a circular motion. Rinse thoroughly and dry to prevent streaks. Avoid using bleach or abrasive pads, as they can dull the surface’s finish.
Preventative Measures:
To maintain the pristine condition of quartz surfaces, use trivets or hot pads under hot cookware to prevent heat damage and always use cutting boards to avoid scratches. It’s also key to wipe up spills promptly to prevent potential staining.
Specific Brand Recommendations:
- Silestone: Regular cleaning can be achieved with water and mild soap. For stubborn stains, products like Q-Action are recommended. If unavailable, a gentle household cleaner can be used in a similar manner.
- Caesarstone: Routine maintenance involves wiping the surface with a damp cloth and warm soapy water. For more challenging spots, a non-abrasive household cleaner may be used, ensuring the surface is rinsed and dried thoroughly afterward.
These key steps will help ensure you’re maintaining stone worktops so they last for years to come. Shop luxury stone today!