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Countertops are the focal point of any kitchen’s visual appeal as well as the workhorse. They endure a lot from chopping food to setting hot pans. As such, they require very durable surfaces that are easy to maintain and suited to cooking needs. But while aesthetically pleasing options are abundant, choosing the right one can be a task. After getting it all wrong a time or two, we’ve conducted rigorous testing on various countertop materials to bring you a list of the best for your kitchen.
The ideal kitchen countertop should be heat and scratch resistant, easy to clean, and durable enough to withstand everyday wear and tear. Apart from this, the material used for the countertop must also complement the kitchen design. The wrong choice can lead to reduced longevity, added maintenance, and even decreased property value. Therefore, selecting the right countertop for your kitchen is crucial.
When settling on a material for your kitchen countertop, you must consider its visual appeal, cost, maintenance, longevity, and resistance to heat, stains, and scratches. Materials such as quartz, granite, marble, and solid surface offer a striking visual impact but require maintenance and can be quite expensive. On the other hand, materials like laminate, soapstone, or concrete may not be as visually impressive, but are more pocket-friendly and require less attention.
In this article, we will lead you through the countertops world. We do this as we have tested, analyzed, and interpreted the performance and characteristics of various countertop materials over time. We have all kinds of insights, including the type of countertop materials perfect for baking enthusiasts, heavy cooks, tidy freaks, and even pet owners. By the end of this article, you will have an in-depth understanding to make an informed decision. So if you’re ready to revamp or start a kitchen from scratch, read on.
Best Countertops for the Kitchen
Over the years, we have gathered significant data from numerous countertop materials to give vital recommendations for the ideal kitchen setting based on your specific needs. These countertops go beyond mere aesthetics, bringing a blend of durability, resistance to wear and tear while being magnanimously stylish. With a well-identified understanding of each material, we present you with this guide containing a handpicked list of leading options for your kitchen countertops. This would certainly make your decision-making process more straightforward and ensure a countertop material that is absolutely perfect for you.
YENHOME White Marble Contact Paper for Countertops Kitchen Counter Top Peel and Stick Countertops Waterproof Self Adhesive Marble Wallpaper Peel and Stick 24″X118 Marble Contact Paper for Desk Cabinet
If you’re looking for an easy and affordable way to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom countertops, the YENHOME White Marble Contact Paper is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The contact paper is waterproof and anti-bacterial, making it a durable and hygienic option for your countertops.
- The self-adhesive and easy-to-install design makes it simple to apply the contact paper yourself, without the need for professional help.
- The contact paper is made of high-quality materials, ensuring that it won’t tear easily and will maintain its appearance over time.
Cons
- The contact paper may not be as heat-resistant as real marble, so it’s important to avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on the surface.
- The pattern may appear distorted or uneven if the contact paper is not installed correctly.
- The contact paper may not be as scratch-resistant as real marble, so it’s important to handle it with care.
We’ve used the YENHOME White Marble Contact Paper to upgrade our kitchen countertops, and we’re happy with the results. The installation process was quick and easy, and the contact paper has held up well over time. We appreciate the waterproof and anti-bacterial properties of the contact paper, as it makes cleaning up spills and stains a breeze.
One thing to keep in mind is that the contact paper may not be as heat-resistant as real marble, so it’s important to use a hot pad or trivet when placing hot dishes on the surface. Additionally, the pattern may appear distorted or uneven if the contact paper is not installed correctly, so it’s important to follow the installation instructions carefully.
Overall, we would recommend the YENHOME White Marble Contact Paper to anyone looking for an affordable and easy way to upgrade their countertops. It’s a great option for those on a budget or for those who want to try out a new look without committing to a permanent upgrade.
WESTICK Peel and Stick Countertops Kitchen Wood Contact Paper for Countertops Waterproof Vinyl Countertop Peel and Stick Contact Paper for Cabinets Camper Self Adhesive Black Wallpaper 15.75″x393″
If you’re looking for an easy and affordable way to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom countertops, the WESTICK Peel and Stick Countertops may be worth considering.
Pros
- The self-adhesive contact paper is easy to install, and it can be a DIY project for homeowners.
- The waterproof vinyl material is durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas.
- The contact paper is removable without leaving any residue, which is great for renters or those who like to change up their decor frequently.
Cons
- The contact paper may not be suitable for all types of countertops, and it’s important to ensure a clean and dry surface before installation.
- The pattern may not be perfectly aligned, which can be noticeable to some users.
- The contact paper may not be as thick or sturdy as real wood or stone countertops, which can affect its longevity.
Overall, we found the WESTICK Peel and Stick Countertops to be a decent option for those looking to give their countertops a facelift without breaking the bank. The self-adhesive vinyl material is easy to install and remove, and it provides a waterproof and scratch-resistant surface that can withstand daily wear and tear.
The pattern we used was the “wood grain” design, which gave our countertops a natural and classic look. The vinyl material also helped to soften the sound in our kitchen, which was a nice bonus.
However, we did notice that the pattern wasn’t perfectly aligned, which can be a bit noticeable to some users. Additionally, the contact paper may not be as thick or sturdy as real wood or stone countertops, which can affect its longevity.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and easy way to upgrade your countertops, the WESTICK Peel and Stick Countertops are worth considering. Just be aware of the limitations of the product and ensure a clean and dry surface before installation.
Rust-Oleum 384964 Home Marble Countertop Coating Kit, White
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to transform your old laminate countertops into a stunning marble design, then the Rust-Oleum 384964 Home Marble Countertop Coating Kit is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The kit is easy to apply, and the instructions are clear and easy to follow.
- The countertop will be ready for light traffic in just 2-4 hours, and a full 24 hours after application for the best results.
- The finish is hard and durable, and resists scratches, impact, and stains from food and beverages.
Cons
- The kit only covers about 20 square feet, so you’ll need to purchase multiple kits if you have a larger countertop.
- The finish is not heat-resistant, so you’ll need to use a hot pad or trivet under hot pots and pans.
- The countertop may not be completely dry to the touch after 24 hours, so you’ll need to wait a bit longer before using it.
We’ve used this kit to transform our outdated laminate countertops into a beautiful marble design, and we’re really impressed with the results. The application process was quick and easy, and the finish is hard and durable. We’ve been able to use the countertop for light traffic after just 2-4 hours, and the finish has resisted scratches, impact, and stains from food and beverages.
One thing to keep in mind is that the kit only covers about 20 square feet, so if you have a larger countertop, you’ll need to purchase multiple kits. Additionally, the finish is not heat-resistant, so you’ll need to use a hot pad or trivet under hot pots and pans. Finally, the countertop may not be completely dry to the touch after 24 hours, so you’ll need to wait a bit longer before using it.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Rust-Oleum 384964 Home Marble Countertop Coating Kit to anyone looking for an easy and affordable way to transform their old laminate countertops into a stunning marble design.
Linda’s Essentials Silicone Stove Gap Covers (2 Pack), Heat Resistant Oven Gap Filler Seals Gaps Between Stovetop and Counter, Easy to Clean Stove Gap Guard (25 Inches, Black)
If you’re looking for an easy and effective way to fill the gap between your stove and countertop, Linda’s Essentials Silicone Stove Gap Covers are a great option.
Pros
- The extra-long size of 25 inches allows you to cover the entire gap between your stove and countertop, ensuring a perfect fit.
- Made of food-grade silicone, these gap fillers are heat-resistant up to 446℉/230℃, making them safe to use with your stove or oven.
- The non-toxic, odorless, and waterproof material of these stove gap guards makes them easy to clean with just a wipe.
Cons
- The stove gap fillers may take some time to arrive, as they are shipped from China.
- The black color may not match all stove and countertop combinations.
- The size may not be suitable for all stove and countertop configurations.
We’ve used Linda’s Essentials Silicone Stove Gap Covers and found them to be a great solution for filling the gap between our stove and countertop. The extra-long size of 25 inches ensured a perfect fit, and the heat-resistant material made of food-grade silicone allowed us to use them with our stove or oven without any worries. Additionally, the non-toxic, odorless, and waterproof material made them easy to clean with just a wipe.
While the stove gap fillers may take some time to arrive, and the black color may not match all stove and countertop combinations, we believe that the pros outweigh the cons. Overall, we would recommend Linda’s Essentials Silicone Stove Gap Covers to anyone looking for an effective and easy way to fill the gap between their stove and countertop.
CONSDAN Butcher Block Counter Top, USA Grown Hard Maple Solid Hardwood Countertop, Washer/Laundry Countertop, Table Top, Polished, Prefinished with Food-safe Oil, 1.5″ Thickness, 30″ L x 25″ W
If you’re looking for a sturdy and durable countertop for your laundry room or utility sink, the CONSDAN Butcher Block Counter Top is a great option.
Pros
- Made of 100% natural and solid hardwood
- Thickness of 1.5 inches provides stability and strength
- Prefinished with food-safe oil for added protection and easy maintenance
Cons
- May be prone to scratches and stains without proper care and maintenance
- Limited color options available
- May require occasional reconditioning to maintain its appearance and longevity
We’ve used the CONSDAN Butcher Block Counter Top in our laundry room for a few months now, and we’re impressed with its quality and durability. The solid hardwood construction provides a sturdy surface that can withstand heavy loads of laundry, and the 1.5-inch thickness adds stability and strength to the countertop.
One of the best things about this countertop is that it’s prefinished with food-safe oil, which provides added protection against spills and stains. This makes cleaning up a breeze, and it also adds a nice polish to the wood.
However, it’s important to note that this countertop may be prone to scratches and stains if not properly cared for and maintained. We’ve found that using a cutting board and wiping up spills promptly helps to prevent damage.
Overall, we would recommend the CONSDAN Butcher Block Counter Top to anyone looking for a high-quality and durable countertop for their laundry room or utility sink. Just be prepared to put in a little extra care and maintenance to keep it looking its best.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best countertops for your kitchen, there are several factors to consider. We’ve used and tested various materials, and here are some key features to keep in mind:
Durability
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing countertops is durability. You want a material that can withstand daily wear and tear, spills, and scratches. Some of the most durable options include granite, quartz, and marble.
Maintenance
Another important factor to consider is maintenance. Some materials require more maintenance than others. For example, natural stone countertops require regular sealing to maintain their appearance and durability. On the other hand, quartz countertops are low-maintenance and require only occasional cleaning.
Style and Design
Of course, you also want your countertops to look great and complement your kitchen’s style and design. Some materials offer a wide range of colors and patterns to choose from, while others have a more limited selection. It’s important to choose a material that fits your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your kitchen.
Cost
Finally, cost is always a consideration when choosing countertops. Some materials, like granite and marble, can be quite expensive, while others, like laminate and tile, are more affordable. It’s important to choose a material that fits your budget, but also meets your needs in terms of durability, maintenance, and style.
In summary, when choosing the best countertops for your kitchen, it’s important to consider factors like durability, maintenance, style and design, and cost. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a material that meets your needs and fits your budget.
