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Marble is a porous natural stone that needs sealant to minimize staining. Leaving this type of countertop material sealant-free means any liquids left on the surface will quickly absorb into the stone, discoloring it and dulling the sheen. Dark or acidic liquids, like red wine, coffee, and lemon, are the worst culprits. 

You most likely purchased a quartz countertop because it won't stain or etch like marble. However, etching can still happen depending on the quality of the quartz and whether it is repeatedly cleaned with harsh chemicals or exposed to acidic spills. Remember, while quartz is more resistant than natural stone, just like Superman when faced with Kryptonite, it is not indestructible.

Clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or cutting directly on the surface.

If the damage is minor, you can repair countertops without replacing them. You can also resurface a laminate countertop rather than replace it when it gets old and dingy. Countertop resurfacing is a relatively easy project, though it can be time-consuming, so you may prefer to hire a pro to do this for you.