Taking proper care of natural stone countertops may not be a top priority for most homeowners and, in general, we think that’s a good thing. Most natural stone counters don’t need constant care—they do have some qualities, whether they be natural to the stone or the installer added a sealer, that make them resistant to staining, for example. However, every countertop needs to be cleaned. Thankfully, there are a few simple recipes you can use to make effective cleaners for your natural stone counters. Let’s talk about them.
DIY Stone Cleaners: Start With the Right Approach
When it comes to making your own stone cleaner, the first thing to remember is that not all countertop materials should be cleaned the same way. Different stones have different properties, so a cleaner that works well on one surface may not be the right choice for another. For example, vinegar-based cleaners and natural stones don’t get along very well, so they should not be asked to interact.
A Simple DIY Cleaner for Granite
For some natural stones, like granite, a damp sponge is often enough to clean small messes. When you need a little more cleaning power to tackle grease and everyday buildup, you can make a simple DIY granite cleaner using ingredients you may already have at home:
- ¼ cup rubbing alcohol
- 3-5 drops liquid dish soap
- 1½ cups distilled water
- Optional: 5-10 drops essential oils to limit the strong smell of the alcohol.
- Mix the alcohol, dish soap, and essential oils in a spray bottle and swirl together, then add the water and shake to mix.
For best results use a microfiber cloth to clean and wipe down the counters.
Using a microfiber cloth and natural cleaner can help to preserve your stone countertop for years to come
Marble: Beautiful, With the Right Care
Marble has the reputation of being a persnickety stone, sometimes demanding a higher level of maintenance. But with the right care, its timeless beauty can be enjoyed for years to come. At ZStone Creations, choosing the right stone starts with understanding how you plan to use your space. During the selection process, ZStone helps homeowners explore different materials and find an option that fits both their design preferences and lifestyle.
Marble care essentials
For everyday marble care, you almost certainly have the necessary ingredients on hand: 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap (or 1–1½ tablespoons of grated organic bar soap) and 1 quart of warm water. Mix the soap and water thoroughly, lightly mist the solution onto the stone, and wipe it clean with a soft, lint-free cloth. Then, use a second cloth to buff the stone dry.
Quartz: Low Maintenance, High Impact
Now, let’s talk about quartz counters. If you have an engineered stone countertop, you likely enjoy its inherently low level of maintenance. At ZStone Creations, quartz is one of several countertop materials available for your project, giving you the opportunity to choose a surface that fits both your design vision and everyday needs. ZStone can also help you understand the differences between engineered quartz and natural quartzite, two materials that are often confused because of their similar names.
Quartz care essentials
For everyday cleaning, simply use a mild dish soap and a soft rag or sponge. Dip the rag into a warm water and soap mixture and gently but firmly wipe down the counter. If anything dries on the surface, a simple putty knife can be used to carefully scrape it off.
Soapstone: A Natural Choice for the Kitchen
Soapstone is wonderful for your inner master chef because it’s a nonporous stone, meaning it naturally resists staining. It also stands up well to heat, making it a practical choice for busy kitchen spaces. At ZStone Creations, soapstone is one of the natural stone options available for custom countertop projects, allowing homeowners to choose a material that complements both their style and the way they use their space.
Soapstone Care Essentials
Simply add a few drops of dish soap to a bucket of water, working it until suds form. Then wet a sponge or soft cloth and thoroughly wipe the surface. Rinse out the cloth or sponge with plain water and wipe away any leftover suds. The surface can either be allowed to air dry or you can wipe it with a soft towel.
With its durability, heat resistance, and simple cleaning routine, soapstone can be a beautiful and practical addition to the kitchen. ZStone Creations can help you explore soapstone and other natural stone options to find the right surface for your next project.
From Stone Selection to Installation
With the right care, your countertops can stay beautiful and polished for years to come. Whether you have marble, quartz, soapstone, or another natural stone surface, a little routine maintenance can go a long way. At ZStone Creations, we’re here to help you choose a countertop that not only complements your space but fits your lifestyle, too. If you have questions about caring for your stone or are ready to find the perfect surface for your next project, our team is here to help.
