A kitchen benchtop is something you’re going to be seeing a lot of, so it’s important to make sure it’s always in tip-top condition. If you have engineered stone benchtops, wiping it down with a warm soapy cloth is the best way to look after it, but every now and then you need some tougher tricks. Here’s everything you need to know.
Engineered stone benchtops are one of the most popular types of benchtops, and they’re renowned for being low-maintenance and easy care, continuing to shine like a brand new surface. Also known as quartz, engineered stone benchtops are made from quartz (or sometimes granite) granules, marble dust or glass chips mixed with a resin or polyester base. One of its biggest benefits is that it doesn’t scratch easily, although it is prone to the occasional chip, and it can stain if spills aren’t wiped up in a timely manner.
Some manufacturers of engineered stone sell a range of specialty cleaning products to keep your kitchen benchtops fresh, but there are also plenty of hacks that will help. From tried and true to new and innovative, here’s how to give your kitchen benchtop a little TLC from time to time.
How to clean up spills and spots
- Act fast to ensure they don’t leave a stain.
- Soak up spill and wipe away with paper towel.
- Wipe clean with a warm soapy cloth or use a specially formulated stone spray cleaner (such as Freedom’s Stone Daily Cleaner), cream cleanser or ready-to-use surface wipes.
- Buff with a clean, dry cloth.
Stains to be wary of
- Tumeric
- Red wine
- Pumpkin
- Pasta sauce
- Tandoori paste
- Permanent markers
Products that can damage engineered stone surfaces
- Bleach
- Nail polish remover.
- Oil-based soap bars and spray cleaners.
- Scourers or abrasive cleaners.
- Hot pots and roasting trays.