December 29, 2025

Countertops are a significant investment in your home, and keeping them in top condition requires the right care and maintenance. However, many homeowners make common mistakes that can damage or shorten the lifespan of their countertops. Whether you have granite, quartz, marble, or wood, here are the most common countertop maintenance mistakes Idaho Falls homeowners make—and how to avoid them.

1. Using Harsh Chemicals or Abrasive Cleaners

One common error homeowners often make is using strong chemicals or rough cleaning tools on their countertops. While they may seem effective for cleaning, they can cause long-term damage to the surface.

• What to Do: Use gentle cleaners that are specifically designed for your countertop material. For example, avoid acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon on granite countertops, as they can damage the surface and cause etching. Stick to pH-balanced cleaners and soft cloths or sponges to maintain the finish.
  
• Tip: If you have quartz countertops, avoid using bleach, as it can break down the resin and cause discoloration over time.

2. Not Sealing Your Countertops Regularly

Sealing is one of the most important steps in maintaining the appearance and longevity of stone countertops like granite and marble. Without a proper sealant, your Idaho Falls ID countertops can absorb stains, liquids, and oils, which can lead to permanent discoloration or damage.

• What to Do: Seal granite and marble countertops regularly, typically once a year, depending on usage. Quartz countertops generally don’t require sealing, but it’s essential to consult with your countertop installer to be sure.
  
• Tip: Test your countertop’s seal by placing a few drops of water on it. If the water beads up, the seal is still good. If it soaks in, it’s time to reseal.

3. Using Your Countertop as a Cutting Surface

Another common mistake is using the countertop as a cutting surface. This can lead to scratches and dullness on your countertop, especially for softer surfaces like marble and wood.

• What to Do: Always use cutting boards for food prep to protect your countertops. This is especially important for surfaces like wood and marble, which can be easily damaged by knives.
  
• Tip: Keep a set of wooden or plastic cutting boards nearby to ensure your countertops stay scratch-free.

4. Ignoring Spills and Stains

Spills happen, but if not cleaned promptly, they can lead to permanent stains, especially on porous materials like marble and wood.

• What to Do: Clean up spills immediately, particularly acidic liquids like wine, coffee, or citrus juice. Wipe the surface gently to avoid scratching and dry it properly.
  
• Tip: For stubborn stains on marble or granite, use a paste made of baking soda and water, then let it sit for several hours before wiping it off.

Conclusion

Maintaining your countertops in Idaho Falls doesn’t have to be difficult — but it does require care. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can keep your countertops looking beautiful and functioning properly for years to come. Whether you have granite, …