Quartz has a very low porosity level, meaning it won't stain easily. What material is the most durable and highest quality?Īccording to Linda Haase, the most durable and highest-quality countertop material is quartz, 'although the price tag can be high. Avoid cleaning ceramic countertops with bleach.Ĭeramic can scratch quite easily, so if you like quick food prep, this may not be the best option. One of the biggest draws of ceramic or porcelain countertops is that they come in at the widest possible range of price points, from the very cheapest to high-end options similar to marble in cost.Ĭeramic is a very hygienic material, which is important in any kitchen.Ĭeramic countertops are very easy-maintenance - just make sure you wipe down any spills quickly as they can stain. However, this material is still worth considering for its superb aesthetic value and durability.Ĭeramic worktops are a very versatile option and are often chosen instead of marble thanks to their low-maintenance profile. The higher price and high maintenance are the main cons of marble. Be especially careful with acidic foods like ketchup and lemon around marble - these are likely to stain deeper. You can remove a stain from marble using acetone, but it will take patience.įor this reason, marble countertops should be sealed with a stone sealer (opens in new tab). It stains easily, and because the stone is porous, the stain can penetrate below the surface making it more difficult to remove. Now the not-so-good news: marble is high maintenance. When properly cared for, a marble countertop will last decades. One of the best things about marbe is that it always stays cool, which can be very valuable in a hot kitchen. If you want the best-looking kitchen countertop there is, you should definitely consider marble. It is a staple of luxury kitchen ideas that can still be reasonably priced, although marble is generally more expensive than granite or quartz. Marble is a natural stone and, for many people, the holy grail of kitchen countertops. Regular maintenance is the main con, but glass countertops are also prone to scratches. In areas with hard water, a glass countertop will likely develop limescale stains over time if not cleaned regularly. You will need to wipe your countertop after every use, or you'll soon have staining. The maintenance of a glass countertop is not necessarily difficult, but it's somewhat more time-consuming than with other materials. Despite its somewhat exclusive reputation as a countertop material for modern kitchens, If sustainability is your main concern, then recycled glass countertops are available. Glass is also very durable and easy to find in many different colors.' Haase says that 'if you want a countertop that is easy to clean, then glass is the best option. Not all glass countertops are clear, either: they come in an almost infinite variety of finishes that can imitate anything from quartz to marble. Wood countertops also can fade in direct sun or become darker as they absorb oil over time, but some people like the aged look.Īnyone who is worried that glass is too fragile a material to use as a kitchen countertop should rest assured: the glass used in countertop making is reinforced and extremely durable. You can't put hot pans directly on top of them and absolutely can't chop your veggies without lining the countertop with a chopping board. The maintenance is not for everyone, and you have to be a bit more careful with wood countertops. Cleaning is fairly easy - we recommend using a wood cleaner (opens in new tab). Wood stains and scratches easily and failing to maintain it will lead to faster aging and ultimately the need for a replacement. The main thing to know about wood countertops is that they do require regular maintenance in the form of biannual oiling. However, the rarer the wood you'll be using, the higher the price will be. Wood is generally a budget-friendly countertop material, often costing a lot less than stone. Of course, sustainability is potentially an issue, so always check if the manufacturer uses sustainably managed, FSC-certified wood. Linda Haase, an NCIDQ-certified Senior Interior Designer who serves on the advisory board at The Project Girl (opens in new tab), praises wood as a material that 'has a warm feeling that will make your kitchen feel cozy and comfortable.'Ī variety of wood types are used in countertop making, from maple and beech to iroko and other exotic woods. Wood is a great option for country kitchens or for anyone who's looking for something a bit different on their countertop.

Stainless steel kitchen island