Ways to Keep Your Remodeled Kitchen Looking Brand New

Chicago Luxury Kitchen Contractors

The final reveal of your newly remodeled kitchen is a moment of pure satisfaction. The sleek countertops are gleaming, the custom cabinetry is flawless, and every appliance is perfectly in its place.

At Areté, we live for that moment! We recognize the result of months of careful planning and skilled craftsmanship. But as you transition from the project phase to daily life, a new question arises: how do you maintain that “just-remodeled” look for years to come?

A kitchen remodel is a significant investment in your home’s value and your daily quality of life. Protecting that investment requires more than just the occasional wipe-down. It involves establishing simple, consistent routines and using the right products to care for the high-end materials that make your space so unique. A little proactive care can go a long way in preserving the beauty and functionality of your modern masterpiece.

Our team is here to provide practical, expert-backed tips for maintaining your kitchen’s pristine condition. We’re here to suggest daily habits and deep-cleaning strategies for your countertops, cabinetry, appliances, and flooring. That way, you can ensure your kitchen remains a source of pride and joy long after the renovation is complete.

Daily Habits for Lasting Beauty

The secret to a perpetually new-looking kitchen isn’t found in sporadic, intense cleaning sessions. Instead, it’s built through small, consistent actions that prevent messes from becoming major issues. Integrating these simple habits into your daily routine is the most effective way to protect your surfaces and keep your kitchen looking its best.

Wipe Spills Immediately: This is perhaps the most crucial rule. Acidic substances like wine, coffee, lemon juice, and tomato sauce can etch or stain natural stone countertops if left to sit. Keep a soft, absorbent cloth and a pH-neutral cleaner handy to address spills as soon as they happen.
Clean as You Cook: A tidy workspace makes cooking more enjoyable and post-meal cleanup far less daunting. Take a moment to wipe down counters, wash utensils, or load the dishwasher while waiting for water to boil or something to roast. This prevents food residue from drying and hardening on your new surfaces.
Use Cutting Boards and Trivets: Your new countertops are durable, but they are not indestructible. Always use a cutting board to prevent scratches from knives. Similarly, place hot pots and pans on trivets or hot pads, as sudden temperature changes can cause thermal shock, potentially cracking stone or damaging solid surfaces.
Perform a Nightly Reset: Before heading to bed, take 5-10 minutes to reset the kitchen. Wipe down countertops and the sink, load any remaining dishes into the dishwasher, and sweep the floor. Waking up to a clean kitchen sets a positive tone for the day and prevents yesterday’s mess from becoming today’s problem.

Caring for Your Custom Countertops

Your countertops are the centerpiece of your kitchen’s design. Whether you chose marble, quartz, or another high-end material, proper care is essential to preserve its elegance.

Marble, Granite, and Natural Stone

Natural stone is prized for its unique beauty, but it is porous and requires specific care.

Seal Regularly: Porous stones like marble and granite should be sealed periodically (typically once a year) to protect them from stains and moisture. You can test if it’s time to reseal by dripping a small amount of water on the surface. If it beads up, the seal is intact. If it soaks in and darkens the stone, it’s time to reseal.
Use a pH-Neutral Cleaner: Avoid harsh, acidic, or abrasive cleaners, including vinegar, lemon juice, or scrub powders. These can dull the finish and damage the stone over time. Instead, use a cleaner specifically designed for natural stone or a simple solution of mild dish soap and warm water.

Quartz (Engineered Stone)

Quartz is a popular choice for its durability and low-maintenance qualities.

Routine Cleaning: For daily cleaning, a soft cloth with warm water and a mild soap is sufficient. Although quartz is highly stain-resistant, it’s still best to wipe up spills from liquids like wine or coffee promptly.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: While non-porous, quartz can be damaged by harsh chemicals. Avoid using bleach, oven cleaners, or abrasive scrubs. For stubborn spots, a non-abrasive sponge and a gentle cleanser can be used.

Maintaining Your Sleek Cabinetry

Custom cabinetry sets the tone for your entire kitchen. Keeping the doors and hardware looking clean and new is key to maintaining the room’s overall aesthetic.

Regular Dusting and Wiping: Dust and grease can accumulate on cabinet surfaces. Wipe them down weekly with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with water or a mild cleaning solution. Always dry the surfaces immediately with another soft cloth to prevent water damage.
Mind the Hardware: Cabinet pulls and knobs are high-touch areas. Clean them regularly with a cloth and a suitable cleaner for the material (e.g., stainless steel cleaner for stainless hardware). This not only keeps them looking good but also removes germs.
Address Spills and Splatters: Food splatters are inevitable. Clean them off as soon as you notice them to prevent staining or damage to the finish. Pay special attention to the cabinets near the stove and sink.

Keeping Appliances Gleaming

Modern, high-end appliances are a hallmark of a renovated kitchen. Here’s how to keep them looking and performing their best.

Stainless Steel

The sleek look of stainless steel can be marred by fingerprints and smudges.

Clean with the Grain: Always wipe or scrub in the direction of the metal’s grain to avoid creating tiny scratches.
Use the Right Cleaner: A microfiber cloth with a dedicated stainless steel cleaner or a bit of mild dish soap and water works well. For a streak-free shine, some homeowners swear by a small amount of mineral oil applied with a clean cloth after cleaning.

Integrated and Panel-Ready Appliances

For appliances with custom panels that match your cabinetry, simply follow the same care instructions you use for your cabinets. This ensures a seamless and consistent look across your kitchen.

Preserving Your Floors

The kitchen floor endures constant foot traffic, spills, and dropped utensils. Regular care will keep it looking great.

Sweep or Vacuum Daily: Removing dirt and grit is the first line of defense against scratches and wear.
Mop Weekly: Use a mop and a cleaning solution appropriate for your flooring type (e.g., hardwood, tile, or luxury vinyl). Avoid using too much water, especially on hardwood floors, as excess moisture can cause damage.
Use Protective Pads: Place felt pads under the legs of chairs and tables to prevent them from scratching the floor as they are moved around.

Areté: Your Partner in Design and Beyond

At Areté, our commitment to you doesn’t end when the project is finished. We build lasting relationships with our clients. Our team is always here to offer guidance and support to help you enjoy your transformed space for years to come.

A well-maintained kitchen not only enhances your daily life but also protects the significant investment you’ve made in your Chicago luxury home.

By incorporating these simple maintenance routines, you can ensure your kitchen continues to reflect the quality, style, and exceptional craftsmanship you expect from a high-end renovation.

If you’re considering a Chicago home renovation, our team is here to help. Call us at 773.683.3033 or contact Areté today to discuss your vision for a seamless and stylish home transformation.