Countertop Care Quiz
Your countertops are one of the most beautiful features in your home — but do you know the facts about caring for them? There are plenty of myths out there about stone and quartz surfaces, and some can be misleading. Take our quick True or False quiz to see how much you know (and pick up a few easy tips to keep your counters looking their best).
True or False: Quartz is 100% maintenance-free.
False. Quartz is very low maintenance, but not “no” maintenance. It resists stains better than natural stone, but dyes, markers, or excessive heat can still cause damage. A little routine care (like wiping spills and using trivets) keeps it flawless.
True or False: Marble is too delicate for kitchens.
False. Marble has been used in kitchens and architectural masterpieces for centuries. With proper sealing and routine care, marble countertops can stay beautiful and functional for decades.
True or False: All stone needs to be sealed.
False. Many types of granite are so dense they don’t need sealer, and quartz never requires sealing. For natural stone, a simple DIY “water test” can show if your counters would benefit from a fresh seal.
True or False: Vinegar and citrus cleaners are safe for stone.
False. They’re acidic and can react negatively with some stones, leaving dull spots or etching. Always use a pH-neutral cleaner made for stone or quartz.
True or False: You can cut directly on your stone counters.
False. While stone is strong, cutting directly on it can leave scratches and will quickly dull your knives. Cutting boards protect both your counters and your blades.
True or False: Hot pans are fine to place directly on countertops.
False. High heat can cause thermal shock in natural stone or resin damage in quartz. Trivets or hot pads are your countertops’ best friends.
The Bottom Line
Your countertops are built for everyday living — and with just a few smart habits, they’ll stay as gorgeous as the day they were installed. Knowing what’s true (and what’s not!) is the key to keeping them in top shape for years to come.
By Deborah Shaw-Nelson. This article is one of a series of Caring For It™ articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.
