How to Care for Silestone Countertops

Silestone is a durable countertop material that combines natural quartz with additional raw materials to create the look of natural stone in a very hard, resilient material. It comes in many different colors, textures and patterns. Because it's nonporous, Silestone is stain resistant and holds up well, but you do need to use proper Silestone care to prevent damage to your countertops.

Routine cleaning keeps your Silestone countertops shiny and prevents the buildup of greasy spots, food and other debris. Dish soap mixed into warm water is an effective way of cleaning Silestone countertops for everyday purposes. You can use an all-purpose cleaner as long as it's pH balanced. VIM Actifizz for quartz is one option recommended by the manufacturer that works on soap scum, food and other everyday grime.

Countertops made of Silestone resist many stains, but you may have some food or drink spills that remain on the surface. Start with mild dish soap and a non-scratch scouring pad to remove stains. Rinse the countertop to remove the soap and check to see if the stain is gone.

If the stain remains, you have some chemical options for removing it. Options include vinegar, rubbing alcohol, ammonia, mineral spirits and glass cleaner. Apply the chosen stain remover and let it sit for a few minutes but no longer than 10 minutes. Use a cloth or non-scratch scouring pad to scrub the stain, then clean the countertop with a fresh cloth to remove the cleaner.

A paste made from vinegar and baking soda can also work on stains, especially limescale and hard water stains. Give the mixture 10 to 20 minutes to work on the stains. Then, use a sponge or non-scratching scouring pad to remove the stains. Wipe the countertop clean to remove the baking soda.

Silestone can handle high heat for a short time, but sustained high heat can damage the surface. Sudden exposure to extreme temperatures can also cause damage such as cracking due to the thermal shock. Never place a hot pan or other hot items directly onto your countertops. Use a trivet or hot pad underneath pans to keep the heat from touching the Silestone directly.

Countertop appliances that use heat can also damage the surface. That includes things such as deep fryers, slow cookers, griddles and electric skillets. Avoid putting those appliances directly onto the countertop. Place a pad or towel under them to shield the surface from the heat.

Over time, the sheen on your countertops can fade, especially if you use abrasive tools or harsh chemicals on it. Avoid the temptation to use a sealant, wax or water repellent on the Silestone to make it shiny again. It only creates an artificial shine and doesn't work long term to make your countertops shiny.

Multi-purpose furniture spray can help if your countertops are dull due to using those temporary shine products. The spray helps remove any waxes and other products you've used on the countertop that dull it over time.

Despite its hard, resilient quality, Silestone is susceptible to damage from certain products. Never use bleach or any product containing chlorine on your Silestone countertops. Avoid oven cleaners, degreasing agents used on ovens and solvents. Abrasive cleaners and cleaning tools can also dull the surface of your Silestone over time. Use sponges or softer scrubbing tools instead.