Summer Maintenance Series: Caring for Sustainable Countertops

Welcome to our June series! Each week, we’ll share friendly, expert guidance for maintaining the beautiful, sustainable finishes that make your home uniquely yours. This week, let’s dive into countertops- those hardworking surfaces that see everything from morning coffee spills to late-night baking adventures. Whether you’ve chosen natural stone, sintered stone, granite, PaperStone, or butcher block, here’s how to keep them glowing for years to come, while honoring the earth.

Natural Stone & Granite

Natural stone and granite countertops are the Pacific Northwest’s answer to timeless beauty and sustainability. Their durability means less waste over time, and they’re 100% recyclable, emitting no VOCs into your home. Here’s how to care for them, the eco-friendly way:

• Daily Cleaning: Use a soft cloth with warm water and a drop of eco-friendly dish soap. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or acidic cleaners (including vinegar and lemon juice), as these can damage the sealant and the stone itself.

• Quick Spill Response: Wipe up spills promptly. Even sealed stone can absorb moisture, leading to stains.

• Stain Removal: For stubborn spots, make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply, let sit overnight, and wipe clean in the morning.

• Drying: Always dry the surface after cleaning to prevent water spots and mineral buildup.

• Microfiber Magic: Use microfiber cloths instead of paper towels to reduce waste and avoid scratches.

• Buffing Out Blemishes: For small nicks or water spots, gently buff with 00 steel wool.

• Sealant Check: Reapply a low-VOC sealant every 1–2 years, or as recommended by your installer, to keep your counters protected and looking their best.

Sintered Stone

Sintered stone is a modern marvel, crafted from natural materials, fully recyclable, and designed for longevity. It’s non-porous, heat-resistant, and available in a rainbow of finishes (think: marble looks without the fuss).

• Daily Cleaning: Simply use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and mild soap. No need for sealing, polishing, or harsh chemicals.

• Stain Removal: For tough spots, use a pH-neutral cleaner or a diluted vinegar solution. Avoid abrasive pads or steel wool, which can scratch the surface.

• Heat Protection: While sintered stone is heat-resistant, it’s wise to use trivets for hot pots to avoid potential discoloration over time.

PaperStone

Paperstone counter

PaperStone is the eco-warrior’s choice: made from recycled paper and a non-toxic resin, it’s durable, non-porous, and beautifully unique.

• Routine Cleaning: Use mild soap and water with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads that could dull the finish.

• Reviving Luster: If your countertop starts to look tired, it can be refinished! Lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper (always with the grain), then re-oil with a food-safe, plant-based oil to restore its rich, matte glow.

• Stain Resistance: Thanks to its non-porous nature, PaperStone resists most stains, but prompt cleanup is always best.

Butcher Block

Butcher block brings warmth and a natural vibe to any space, and with a little care, it can last for generations.

• Daily Cleaning: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild, eco-friendly soap. Avoid soaking the wood.

• Sanitizing: For deeper cleaning, use a solution of vinegar and water (never bleach).

• Oiling: Regularly apply food-safe mineral oil or a plant-based oil to keep the wood hydrated and protected.

• Stain & Scratch Repair: Sand lightly with fine-grit paper and re-oil as needed.

Why Sustainable Counters Matter

Choosing sustainable countertops-like locally sourced stone, recycled-content surfaces, or responsibly harvested wood-means less waste, fewer toxins, and a healthier home for you and the planet. Their longevity means you won’t be replacing them anytime soon, and many can be recycled or refinished, keeping them out of the landfill.

We believe maintenance should be a celebration of your home’s story and your stewardship of the earth. If you ever have questions about caring for your finishes or want to explore new sustainable materials, we’re always here, ready with a cup of coffee (or tea!) and a world of ideas.

Stay tuned next week as we share our favorite tips for keeping your exterior siding looking sharp and sustainable, all summer long.

Our Passion. Your Paradise.

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