Opt for soapstone or quartz instead of granite
If you're a wine lover, you might want to consider alternative countertop options to granite. A recent TikTok video by @royalgranitewoodstock shows the visible damage caused by red wine spills on granite countertops, even if the wine is wiped off immediately. The video highlights the stress and paranoia that can come with investing in granite countertops. Fortunately, there are other beautiful and more practical countertop options available.
Soapstone and quartz are two great alternatives to granite. These materials are resistant to stains and can withstand spills, making them ideal for wine lovers. Unlike granite, soapstone and quartz countertops won't be ruined by red wine spills, saving you the stress and expense of dealing with stains. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and styles, allowing you to find the perfect countertop to complement your kitchen.
So, if you enjoy a glass of wine and want to avoid the hassle of dealing with stained granite countertops, consider opting for soapstone or quartz instead. These materials offer the beauty and durability you desire without the worry of wine stains.
To see the TikTok video that inspired this revelation, click here.
Choosing the Right Countertop Material: Soapstone and Quartz as Alternatives to Granite
When it comes to selecting a countertop material, many homeowners worry about stains and durability. While granite has long been a popular choice, there are other options worth considering.
One such alternative is soapstone, which has gained praise from interior designer Jennifer Vaquero. According to Vaquero, soapstone offers a unique texture and feel, along with excellent durability and resistance to stains and heat. However, it's important to note that soapstone tends to be more expensive than granite, with prices ranging from $70 to $120 per square foot.
Another viable option is quartz, which should not be confused with quartzite. Unlike granite, quartzite is porous and requires sealing to prevent stains. In a TikTok video by @royalgranitewoodstock, a piece of quartz was shown alongside granite, demonstrating its stain-resistant properties. When wine was poured on both surfaces and wiped off, the granite stained while the quartz remained clean. This indicates that quartz is a safer choice for wine enthusiasts.
Additionally, TikTok user @rachelm.moore shared a video showcasing her white quartz countertop's resistance to red wine stains. She noted that the quartz did not require sealing, further highlighting its convenience. However, it's worth mentioning that quartz is typically priced between $70 and $90 per square foot, making it slightly more expensive than granite.
Ultimately, when choosing a countertop material, it's important to consider factors such as durability, stain resistance, and budget. Soapstone and quartz offer viable alternatives to granite, providing homeowners with options that prioritize both aesthetics and functionality.
Although you should think twice before willingly installing granite countertops, you shouldn't panic or jump to removing them if you already have a granite countertop or plan on moving into a home with that feature. Some hacks can prevent wine spills from causing too much damage, such as watering down bleach and applying it to the stained area. "When used as directed, the active ingredient in regular household bleach, sodium hypochlorite, is safe for use on sealed granite as well as a wide variety of hard, non-porous surfaces in the kitchen," Mary Gagliardi, nicknamed "Dr. Laundry," the in-house scientist/cleaning expert for Clorox, told Martha Stewart. She also cautioned, "Bleach should never be used full strength on any surface or fabric, it should always be diluted with water first."
If you don't want to use bleach, Sears Home Services has another hack: make a paste consisting of two tablespoons of baking soda and a teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide. After applying the paste, put plastic wrap on it and leave it for a full day. Then, once you take off the plastic wrap, use warm water with soap on a gentle cloth to get the paste off. So, even though it's not the best idea to choose to install granite countertops if you frequently drink wine, there are ways to remove the stains from the granite if needed.
