Are you thinking of choosing low-maintenance and easy-to-clean worktops in your kitchen? From glass and marble to quartz, you have got so many options to meet your requirements and modern kitchen design.
There is no denying the fact that natural stones such as marble or granite are both timeless and elegant. But you should not select a kitchen worktop only based on aesthetics and design. You should also to consider the practicality of the surface material to ensure the installed worktop is worth the investment.
Not every countertop material is not ideal for all kitchen styles. So, it’s no surprise that certain worktops demand more maintenance compared to others. But quartz is one good example of minimal-maintenance worktops for busy families and professionals alike.
When it comes to urban lifestyle, most homeowners lead busy lives, and rarely have time to look after their kitchen worktop regularly. Therefore, they require an easy-to-clean and virtually maintenance-free countertop for their cooking space.
If you’re looking for a good-quality low-maintenance kitchen countertop, here are some amazing worktop materials to choose from:
1. Engineered Stone
High-quality engineered quartz is made from 95% of natural quartz crystals and 5% polymer resins, colour pigments and binders. The result is the low-maintenance, natural-looking countertop. The main difference in terms of quality of our quartz worktops comes with the percentage of natural quartz in the mix of the product. The lower the quality, the more artificial the stone looks, feels and the way in which it performs in the long term.
Since quartz stone it is manmade, you get to choose from a wide range of pattern and colour choices. From monotone and composite marble effect to brightly coloured surfaces, and concrete-feel, this non-porous worktop is suitable for various architectural styles and home interiors.
Besides, it’s a totally non-porous surface that inhibits the growth of moulds, bacteria and mildew. This makes it a safe and hygienic surface for families. Leading quartz brands such as Silestone, Caesarstone and Compac Quartz offer bacteriostatic protection and exclusive liquid-repellent characteristics.
In addition, composite worktops effortlessly combine beauty and functionality. For maintenance, all you need to do is wipe off the surface using a mild soap and water with a non-abrasive cloth.
2. Soapstone
Don’t be mistaken! This material is not made from soap. It is a soft rock, which mostly comprises of talc. This natural stone is available in many hues – from charcoal to soft grey concrete worktops.
Due to its durability, it has been one of the major choices of many homeowners and designers. It is the perfect natural stone for those who want to create a Vintage look This is also one of the few natural stones that are not affected by any acidic or alkaline cleaners. Moreover, spilling orange juice or coffee won’t stain its surface.
You will require a PH neutral cleaner for cleaning soapstone. Just take some water and mild soap to wipe off its surface and enhance its natural beauty. Dark stone with homogeneous characteristics, can show marks of water, limescale and grease much quicker than in lighter colours and polished finishes.
3. Ceramic
It is a sintered worktop material that’s made under high temperature and pressure conditions. The result is a highly stain-proof and scratch-proof worktop. It’s not just durable but it won’t discolour over time.
It also comes in various designs and patterns – from white marble effect to concrete-like aesthetics. In addition, you can choose from metallic-effect worktops or wood-effect countertop materials that can be used in places such as saunas, bathrooms and other wet areas. Plus, the cleaning of this worktop is a breeze. It only requires a soapy sponge and water for rinsing the surface.
4. Recycled Glass
If you want a sustainable and green building material, pick recycled glass for the kitchen worktop. This material is increasingly becoming famous among homeowners because it is easy to clean and maintain due to its non-porous surface.
In terms of aesthetics, it is a luxurious and versatile surface. It can also be designed to mimic marble effect worktops or other natural stones with an extra glossy finish. As a matter of fact, the latest quartz worktop designs also offer the look and feel of traditional decoration materials including oxidized metal and terrazzo worktops that don’t stain or scratch. For cleaning, you only need a cloth and window cleaning spray to get rid of food residue.
5. Laminate
Modern laminates are available in various interesting finishes. Some of them can mimic natural stones and concrete effect worktops. Furthermore, the high-end versions are stain-proof.
The best part is that it’s easy to clean, just like the previously mentioned worktop surfaces.
Published by Jesus Alberto Mouzo on October 21, 2019