How to Clean Countertops: 7 Expert Tips for a Spotless Surface

Because your countertops should be a place for food prep, not a science experiment.

A gloved hand cleans a countertop with a cloth.

Countertops take a beating every day. From coffee spills and sauce splatters to sticky fingerprints and mystery stains, these surfaces endure constant exposure to dirt, bacteria, and grime. If you’re not cleaning them properly, you could be leaving behind harmful bacteria or even damaging the material. Whether you have granite, quartz, laminate, or butcher block, we’ve got the best cleaning methods to keep your countertops looking flawless.

Why Cleaning Countertops Matters

Your countertops aren’t just for show—they’re the workhorse of your kitchen and bathroom. Proper cleaning helps prevent bacteria buildup, cross-contamination, and long-term damage to the material. Some surfaces, like natural stone, require special care to avoid dulling or etching, while porous materials like wood or unsealed granite can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly. Regular cleaning not only keeps your home hygienic but also preserves the longevity of your countertops.


What You’ll Need to Clean Countertops

Before you start scrubbing, gather these essential cleaning supplies:

  • Mild dish soap – Safe for most surfaces.
  • White vinegar or hydrogen peroxide – Natural disinfectants.
  • Baking soda – Great for removing stains and grease.
  • Microfiber cloths or soft sponges – Prevents scratches.
  • Spray bottle – For easy application of homemade cleaners.
  • Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) – Disinfects without residue.
  • Stone-safe cleaner (for granite and marble) – Prevents etching.
  • Cutting board oil or beeswax (for butcher block) – Seals and protects wood.

How to Clean Countertops in 7 Steps

1. Remove Surface Debris First

Before deep cleaning, clear off any crumbs, dust, or loose debris. Use a dry microfiber cloth or a soft brush to wipe the surface clean. This prevents scratching when you start scrubbing. If your countertops have seams or grout lines, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to loosen trapped dirt.

2. Use the Right Cleaner for Your Countertop Type

Not all countertops are created equal—each material has its own cleaning needs:

  • Granite & Marble: Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner or mild dish soap with water. Avoid vinegar, lemon juice, or abrasive cleaners, as they can etch and dull the surface.
  • Quartz: Use mild dish soap and warm water. Quartz is non-porous, but harsh chemicals like bleach can discolor it.
  • Laminate: Wipe with a mix of warm water and mild dish soap. Avoid excessive moisture on seams, as water can seep in and cause swelling.
  • Butcher Block: Use a damp cloth and mild soap for daily cleaning. To disinfect, wipe with a mixture of white vinegar and water.
  • Concrete: Use a pH-neutral cleaner and reseal the surface regularly to prevent stains.

3. Tackle Stains Naturally

For stubborn stains, different materials require different approaches:

  • Granite & Marble: Make a baking soda and water paste, apply it to the stain, and cover it with plastic wrap for 24 hours before wiping clean.
  • Laminate & Quartz: Use a paste of baking soda and water, rub gently, and rinse thoroughly.
  • Butcher Block: Sprinkle coarse salt over the stain, then rub with half a lemon to lift discoloration.
  • Concrete: Try a hydrogen peroxide and baking soda mix for oil stains.

4. Disinfect Safely Without Damage

Disinfecting your countertops is essential for food safety, but some disinfectants can harm certain surfaces. Here’s what works best:

  • Granite & Marble: Use isopropyl alcohol (70%) mixed with water in a spray bottle. Let it sit for 5 minutes before wiping clean.
  • Quartz & Laminate: Use a mix of dish soap and warm water, or disinfect with hydrogen peroxide.
  • Butcher Block: Spray with white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide to kill bacteria naturally.
  • Concrete: Disinfect with a diluted mix of hydrogen peroxide and water.

5. Rinse and Dry Thoroughly

Once your countertops are clean and disinfected, wipe them down with a clean, damp microfiber cloth to remove any residue. Follow up with a dry cloth to prevent streaks and water spots. For stone countertops, drying immediately helps maintain their shine and prevent water stains.

6. Seal and Protect for Long-Term Maintenance

Some countertops require regular sealing to prevent stains and damage:

  • Granite & Marble: Reseal every 6–12 months with a high-quality stone sealer to maintain protection.
  • Butcher Block: Apply food-grade mineral oil or beeswax once a month to prevent cracking and moisture damage.
  • Concrete: Reseal every 1–2 years to maintain a protective barrier.

7. Prevent Future Stains and Damage

Keep your countertops looking pristine by following these simple habits:

  • Use cutting boards to avoid knife marks and scratches.
  • Wipe spills immediately, especially acidic liquids like wine, coffee, and citrus juice.
  • Use coasters and trivets to protect against heat damage.
  • Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that can strip finishes or dull the surface.

How Professionals Deep-Clean Countertops

If your countertops have stubborn stains, deep etching, or grime buildup, professional cleaners use advanced techniques such as:

  • Steam cleaning – Lifts dirt from porous surfaces without chemicals.
  • High-grade sealers – Protects stone and concrete from future damage.
  • Polishing & resurfacing – Restores luster to dull or etched stone surfaces.
  • UV light sanitation – Eliminates bacteria without harming materials.

If your countertops are looking worse for wear, a professional service may be the best option (home countertop care guide).


How Often Should You Clean Countertops?

  • Daily: Wipe down with a mild cleaner to remove spills and bacteria.
  • Weekly: Disinfect with an appropriate solution for your countertop type.
  • Monthly: Perform a deep clean, removing stains and applying protective treatments.
  • Every 6–12 months: Reseal stone, butcher block, and concrete surfaces.

Final Thoughts

Your countertops are one of the most-used surfaces in your home, so keeping them clean is essential. With the right cleaning methods and preventative care, you can maintain their beauty and durability for years to come.

For more cleaning tips, check out How to Clean a Glass Stovetop. Keep every surface in your home sparkling!