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If you want your butcher countertops to last the typical 20 years, you should seal them monthly. Most homeowners use either oil or polyurethane, which helps repel water from the porous material. Keep in mind that if your countertops are in a kitchen, you’ll want to use a food-grade sealant. Tung oil, mineral oil, and beeswax are all popular options.

Terrazzo is considered an eco-friendly and sustainable material because it is often made from recycled materials, such as chips of glass, marble, or polished metal, which helps reduce waste. While the epoxy resin used as a binder has its own environmental impact, it requires relatively low energy for production and does not release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) once fully cured, which helps lower the overall carbon footprint.

The least porous countertop material is engineered quartz. Made from a blend of natural quartz and resins, it is non-porous and highly resistant to stains, scratches, and bacteria. This makes quartz countertops exceptionally low-maintenance and durable, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms where hygiene and easy upkeep are priorities. Other non-porous options include solid surface materials like Corian, which also offer excellent resistance to moisture and stains.

Butcher block countertops are easy to clean. You can use basic household cleaning materials like soap and water. You can even use vinegar or lemon juice and salt. There aren’t many special precautions like other materials. For example, soap tends to streak stainless steel while acid-based cleaners can wear down quartz.