How to Maintain and Clean Your Countertops: A Simple Guide for Florida Homes

At Southern Stoneworks, we believe beautiful countertops deserve lasting care. Whether you’re chopping vegetables, hosting Sunday brunch, or just setting down your keys at the end of a long day, your kitchen surfaces take on a lot. That’s why regular maintenance isn’t just about keeping them clean, it’s about protecting the investment you've made in your home.

And if you live in Florida, where humidity and salt air can do their own kind of damage, countertop care needs to be a little more intentional. Here's how to maintain and clean your countertops the right way, without overcomplicating things.

Start with the Basics: Gentle, Consistent Cleaning

No matter what material your countertop is made of—quartz, granite, marble, laminate—the best daily routine starts with something simple: warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft cloth. That’s it. Wipe it down at the end of each day to remove crumbs, spills, and grease. Not only will this keep things looking fresh, but it also prevents buildup that can become harder to clean later.

Avoid harsh cleaners like bleach or anything abrasive. They can dull the finish, wear away sealants, or scratch delicate surfaces. When in doubt, go gentle.

Quartz Countertops: Clean and Carefree

If you’ve chosen quartz, you’ve already done yourself a favor, it’s one of the lowest-maintenance materials out there. Quartz is non-porous, which means it doesn’t absorb liquids or stain easily. And it never needs to be sealed.

A soft cloth and warm, soapy water are all you need for daily cleaning. If you run into a sticky mess (like dried jelly or spilled coffee), a non-abrasive sponge will take care of it without damage. For tougher stains, a little rubbing alcohol or glass cleaner works well. Just steer clear of anything that contains bleach or ammonia.

As one Florida homeowner put it, “Quartz is bulletproof, except you still need a trivet for hot pans.” We couldn’t agree more, always use a hot pad to protect your surface from thermal shock, which can crack even the toughest material.

Granite & Marble: Timeless Beauty That Needs a Little TLC

Natural stone is stunning—it’s why so many Florida homes feature granite or marble countertops—but it does require more care.

Granite, while durable, is porous. It should be sealed at least once a year to prevent stains and bacteria from sinking in. You’ll know it’s time to reseal when water stops beading on the surface. Daily cleaning is as simple as soap, water, and a soft cloth, but skip acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon, they can eat away at the sealant and damage the stone.

Marble, with its elegant veining and soft texture, is even more sensitive. It can scratch and etch easily from acidic foods and spills. Clean up messes quickly, avoid dragging pots across the surface, and reseal regularly, every six months is a good rule of thumb, especially here in Florida where humidity can break down sealers faster.

A customer once told us, “Granite needs to be sealed once a year or so,” and they were spot-on. This simple step goes a long way toward keeping your countertops in top condition.

Wood, Laminate, and Other Popular Options

Not every kitchen is decked out in stone—and that’s perfectly fine. Whether you have butcher block or laminate, a little attention goes a long way.

Butcher block needs regular cleaning and care to stay looking warm and rich. Use dish soap and warm water for daily cleaning. Once a week, disinfect with white vinegar, and once a month, apply food-grade mineral oil to prevent drying and cracking. Be sure to dry the surface thoroughly after cleaning, moisture is wood’s biggest enemy.

Laminate countertops, popular for their affordability and variety of styles, are easy to maintain but not as forgiving of heat or sharp objects. Clean with soap and water; avoid abrasive pads or harsh chemicals. And definitely use cutting boards and hot pads to avoid permanent damage.

Florida’s Climate Makes a Difference

Living in the Sunshine State comes with unique conditions. High humidity, salt air, and heat can all affect how your countertops age, especially outdoor or waterfront kitchens.

That’s why we always remind our customers to:

• Keep countertops dry when not in use (especially natural stone).

• Use vent fans when cooking to minimize moisture buildup.

• Protect outdoor surfaces with covers or shade when possible.

• Keep an eye on metal components, as salt air can corrode them over time.

The good news? With a little mindfulness, your countertops can stay beautiful and functional despite the elements. And if anything ever looks off, we’re just a call away.

What a Good Maintenance Routine Looks Like

Consistency is key. Here’s how to keep your counters in excellent shape without overthinking it:

• Daily: Wipe down with soap and warm water. Dry with a clean towel.

• Weekly: Use a non-abrasive cleaner that’s safe for your specific surface.

• Monthly: Check for stains, reseal if needed (for granite/marble), and polish if you like that extra shine.

• As Needed: Use baking soda paste or stone-safe stain remover for stubborn spots. Always spot test first.

Your countertop is one of the most-used surfaces in your home, make your care routine a habit, and it’ll keep rewarding you with good looks and durability for years.

Why Southern Stoneworks Cares So Much About This

At Southern Stoneworks, we don’t just install countertops, we stand by them. We use advanced laser technology to make precise cuts, minimize waste, and give you more from every slab. We care about how your kitchen looks long after we leave your home.

That’s why part of our job is making sure you feel confident maintaining your new surface. We don’t cut corners, and we don’t leave you guessing. Our team always takes the time to explain care instructions during installation, and we’re happy to answer questions anytime after.

Because to us, our customers aren’t just transactions. You’re people. Families. Neighbors. And we want your home to feel like a place you love, even ten years down the road.

Thinking about new countertops, or just want to know how to keep yours looking like new?

Reach out to us today. We're here to help, no pressure, just guidance from people who care.