Whether you choose state-of-the-art units or cheaper buys, your worktop will undoubtedly be the making of your kitchen. But which material to go for? We've got the latest information on the best buys for your kitchen and lifestyle.
By Andrea Dean
Looks may score highly when choosing a kitchen worktop, but think about the type of use it's going to get, and whether the material is up to the job. Ideally, it needs to be stain and heat-resistant, easy to clean, extremely durable and reasonably priced - and that's just for starters. You won't find a worktop that ticks all these boxes, so consider what your priorities are, and what you're prepared to compromise on. Our round-up of the most common materials will help you to make up your mind.
Warm and mellow, wood is your most eco-friendly option and is available in a variety of grain patterns and tones, ranging from pale beech through to black walnut. It's very hygienic as it contains natural anti-bacterial properties, and is easy to repair.
Apply a thin coating of oil twice a year to prevent it drying out - you can tell when this is needed as water droplets will lie flat rather than bead on the surface. Remove burn marks by sanding (with the grain) then oiling the affected area.
Granite has an attractive mottled appearance, comes in a wide range of colours, and is incredibly hardwearing. It is very resistant to heat, stains and water damage, and can be pre-cut to include sink inserts and draining grooves. It's usually supplied polished and very glossy, but you can opt for a honed matt finish.
Limestone and marble - actually a form of crystallised limestone - also make stunning worktops, but their porosity makes them prone to staining, even when sealed.
Clean with a mild washing up liquid solution, Don't use abrasive cleaners, or ones containing lemon, vinegar or other acids, as these will dull the surface.
It's not without good reason that top chefs opt for stainless steel worktops in their state of the art kitchens, as it's very hygienic, waterproof and heat resistant. In polished, matt and sandblasted finishes, it's perfect for giving your kitchen a streamlined, industrial look. Better still, it won't break the bank.
Wash with mild detergent solution and buff to a shine with a soft cloth. Don't use abrasives which will scratch.
Also known as engineered stone or quartz, this is a manufactured material made from natural quartz bound with resin. Like stone, it's very strong, heat and stain-resistant. Common brands include Silestone and Zodiaq.
It's non-porous, so doesn't need sealing. Just wipe clean and avoid putting very hot pans directly on the surface.
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