Looking after a stone worktop

Keep the invoice, material name and finish together. A marble-effect surface is not necessarily marble; quartz and quartzite are different materials. If you do not know what you have, ask before applying a specialist cleaner.

The Natural Stone Institute recommends neutral cleaner, stone soap or mild dishwashing detergent with warm water for routine natural-stone cleaning, followed by rinsing and drying. Follow the instructions we give you where they are more specific.

Use the heat protection and chopping-board practices specified for the product. Clean spills promptly. Do not interpret a resistance claim as permission to ignore the supplied care instructions.

Ask about any particular appliances you intend to keep on the surface, and check their own instructions too. Resolve questions before choosing a permanent location for them.

Record what happened and take a photograph before contacting us. Tell them the product name and any cleaner already used. Avoid testing an unfamiliar chemical on a visible area.

For marble, distinguish an etched finish from a stain when describing the problem. If the appearance is changing unexpectedly, seek appropriate advice rather than escalating through stronger cleaners.

Request a clear cleaning guide, any treatment or sealing instructions, warranty documents where applicable and a contact for maintenance questions. Keep a record of the installation date and the exact material supplied.

If you are choosing a surface now, read the material comparison and consider how much attention you want to give it. Appearance and maintenance are part of the same buying decision.