The 7 Best Countertop Materials, According to the Experts

Marble

Perhaps the most coveted kitchen and bathroom countertop material, marble is one of your best options, according to interior designers Nina Freudenberger and Jennifer Vaquero. "I love the way marble looks," Freudenberger says. "I find it to be the most upscale, most beautiful, and varied of all the options," the designer continues.

Vaquero agrees, noting that while the material offers a classic look, the natural stone is quite porous and will stain over time, especially if it's exposed to citrus fruits or wine. However, Freudenberger points out that this natural wear can be a good thing. "I embrace, rather than fight it," the designer says. "Over time, it really develops this beautiful patina that just gets better as it is used."

The Takeaway: Marble looks luxe but will stain over time.

Quartz

Although quartz is a popular countertop material, both Freudenberger and Vaquero offer pros and cons for this one. It's great for utility and is incredibly durable and stain-resistant; however, quartz is an engineered product, meaning it's humanmade, rather than naturally occurring.

"Beware that not all quartz is created equal," Vaquero says. While some look almost indistinguishable from natural stones, others can turn out more like a pixelated print, the designer warns.

The Takeaway: Quartz is stain-resistant and durable, but it's a manmade material.

Soapstone

"I am crazy about the texture and feel of soapstone," Vaquero admits. Vaquero notes that both elements exist because of naturally occurring talc (a clay mineral) found in the stone. "It's extremely durable and holds up well to stains and heat," the designer adds. The only downside of choosing this material is that it can darken over time.

The Takeaway: Soapstone is durable and smooth, but the color may darken.

Linoleum

"I just did my kitchen in Malibu with linoleum, and I think this is a really interesting material," Freudenberger shares. The material was big in the 70s, and it appears to be making a comeback (and for good reason). The designer notes that linoleum is not only an affordable pick, but it's also an extremely hygienic natural material. "I'm finding it a little sensitive to scratching, but I think choosing a lighter color would help with this," Freudenberger suggests.

The Takeaway: Linoleum is natural, hygienic, and affordable but may get scratched.

Quartzite

Not to be confused with quartz, quartzite is a natural stone material that's a great alternative to marble, according to Vaquero. The designer points out that it's more durable and less porous than marble, which is less susceptible to stains and scratches.

The Takeaway: Quartzite is a natural stone that's more durable than porous marble.

Butcher Block

Freudenberger has mixed feelings about this countertop material, but it still makes her list of the best options. "I like that it is warm and very functional," Freudenberger says. However, she'd only use it in very specific situations. For instance, the designer recommends using butcher block for a kitchen island, rather than for the entire space.

The Takeaway: Butcher block is functional, but you may only want to use it in small doses.

Wood

"I love the look of wood countertops, especially in walnut," Vaquero says. According to Vaquero, this is one of the best countertop materials for a traditional, timeless space. Plus, you'll have a myriad of options when it comes to taking care of wood countertops.

"There are great products out there for sealing and protecting them," the designer explains. "Some come prefinished, but it's important to keep an eye out for issues like warping, burns, knife marks, or cracking," Vaquero advises.

The Takeaway: Wood offers a traditional look, but it may show wear over time.