If you want the lowest maintenance countertop, Quartz and Porcelain are your top choices. Both are completely non-porous, highly resistant to stains, and never require sealing.
For the absolute easiest, "worry-free" daily care, Engineered Quartz is the winner. It is non-porous, doesn't require sealing, and cleans easily with just soap and water.
One of the biggest reasons people think granite is no longer popular is the rise of newer materials like quartz. As trends shift, some assume that older materials are no longer relevant. But granite isn't outdated—it's evolving.
Quartz and natural quartzite are the top trends, favored for their durability and striking, high-contrast veining. Alongside these, matte finishes, earthy tones, and ultra-durable porcelain are redefining kitchen spaces.
Quartz is generally easier to maintain than granite. Because quartz is engineered and non-porous, it never requires sealing and naturally resists stains. Granite is a natural, porous stone that requires periodic sealing (usually every 1 to 5 years depending on the slab) to prevent liquids and oils from seeping in and staining.
Quartz countertops are highly durable and non-porous, but they have key drawbacks: limited heat resistance, vulnerability to UV damage making them strictly for indoor use, and a man-made look that lacks the organic veining of natural stone. They also require professional installation due to their weight.
Yes, you can safely put a hot cup of coffee on a quartz countertop. A freshly brewed cup of coffee typically sits between 140∘F and 180∘F (60∘C and 82∘C), which is well below the threshold where quartz resins begin to be damaged (usually around 150∘F to 300∘F depending on the brand).
Engineered quartz countertops offer the perfect blend of luxury and practicality, making them an excellent choice for high-end homeowners who seek elegance and functionality in their kitchens.
Dark floors pair particularly well with lighter countertops in large kitchens, where there is enough natural light to prevent the space from feeling heavy. Charcoal tiles, dark-stained engineered wood, or concrete-effect porcelain are often used to create a strong architectural base.
Countertops in 2026 are shifting away from sterile, cool grays toward warm, organic, and dramatic looks. The biggest trends prioritize inviting neutrals (creams, beiges, and taupes), sweeping natural veins, and bold, earth-toned statement stones.
Yes, you can use Dawn dish soap on granite. Because it is a mild, pH-balanced detergent, it is an excellent and safe choice for everyday cleaning.
Several fantastic, budget-friendly materials look almost identical to granite but cost a fraction of the price. The most popular and realistic options vary by application, ranging from high-pressure laminates for tight budgets to engineered materials like quartz and solid surfaces.
Quartz. One countertop material that designer Lexie Saine will no longer go for is quartz. "Earlier in my career, I used quartz often because of its low maintenance once installed and its ease of daily care," she says. However, she has found over time that quartz is something that many clients regret having used.
It is not recommended to use standard Clorox wipes on quartz countertops. While an accidental or rare swipe won't cause immediate destruction, making it a regular habit can cause serious damage.
Granite's unique patterns and colors are highly desirable, making it a material that buyers often seek out. Perception of Luxury: Granite countertops are often associated with high-end homes. Even though quartz is a strong competitor, granite still holds the reputation of being a luxurious, high-value material.
Yes, Dawn dish soap is safe for quartz countertops. It is one of the best everyday cleaners you can use, provided it is heavily diluted with warm water.
Never place a running crock pot directly on a quartz countertop. Quartz is composed of stone mixed with resin. Prolonged exposure to heat can melt the resin, resulting in permanent scorch marks or thermal shock that causes the quartz to crack.
Using Windex on quartz countertops occasionally won't cause immediate ruin, but it is generally discouraged. Windex is highly alkaline and often contains ammonia. Over time, these harsh chemicals can degrade the protective sealant and etch or dull the shiny resin bonds that hold the quartz together.
We have compiled a list of our top-selling and most popular kitchen countertops over the past year.
While quartz is one of the most popular countertop materials, many homeowners dislike it because of its vulnerability to heat, tendency to show smudges, artificial appearance, and recent safety and environmental concerns.
Yes, you can use vinegar on quartz countertops, but it must be equal parts vinegar and water. Diluting the vinegar helps minimize the acidity, reducing the risk of dulling the surface or breaking down the resin in quartz. Use the solution sparingly and wipe the area afterward with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
A kitchen is typically considered outdated when it suffers from a combination of failing appliances, poor lighting, worn-out surfaces, and an isolating, disjointed layout. Trends evolve, and what was once fashionable can make the entire heart of the home feel less functional and visually unappealing.
Shades like olive green, inky blue, or even a warm charcoal instantly feel a bit more luxurious and layered. These shades add depth and look incredibly refined (especially when paired with brushed brass or burnished bronze hardware) in a way that whites or pale stone and grey often lack."
Experts recommend working with a lighter countertop than a cabinet for the perfect color blend. This combination makes the countertop installation job ideal for the ultimate kitchen outlook.