Step-by-Step Guide to Clean and Polish Onyx Countertops

By Yurik Lozano

Published: Saturday, September 20, 2025

Modern luxury kitchen featuring a polished black Onyx waterfall island with bold veining, pendant lights, and sleek cabinetry.

The Beauty and Challenge of Onyx Countertops

Onyx countertops are prized for their luxurious, translucent appearance that immediately elevates any kitchen or bathroom. Designers love this stone for its dramatic veining, luminous depth, and ability to be backlit for a stunning effect. Beyond countertops, Onyx is also popular for backsplashes, accent walls, and flooring.

However, with great beauty comes the need for proper care. Unlike quartz or granite, Onyx is softer and more delicate, making it more susceptible to scratches, stains, and etching from everyday spills. The good news? With the right cleaning and maintenance routine, you can preserve its brilliance for years.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning and polishing Onyx countertops the right way.

Step 1: Daily Cleaning with the Right Products

Onyx is a porous natural stone, meaning it can easily absorb liquids if not properly sealed. To protect it:

Avoid acidic substances like vinegar, lemon juice, wine, or coffee, which can cause etching.
Skip harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners, as they can dull the finish.
Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner or mild dish soap diluted in water.

How to clean your Onyx countertops:

Use a soft microfiber cloth instead of paper towels or abrasive sponges.
Gently wipe the surface—never scrub.
For spills, blot immediately instead of wiping, which prevents the liquid from spreading.

👉 For more best practices on stone care, check the Natural Stone Institute’s guidelines, a trusted authority in the industry.

Step 2: Seal Onyx Countertops for Protection

Sealing is one of the most important maintenance steps for Onyx. Without a proper sealant, the stone is highly vulnerable to stains and scratches.

Frequency: Reseal every 12–24 months, depending on usage.
DIY or Professional: You can purchase high-quality stone sealers or hire a professional for a longer-lasting finish.
Test your seal: Sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface. If the stone darkens, it’s time to reseal.

A well-sealed countertop dramatically improves Onyx’s resilience against daily wear.

Step 3: Prevent Heat and Scratch Damage

Even with sealing, Onyx remains a softer stone that needs extra care in high-traffic kitchens. Protect it with:

Hot pads, trivets, or pot holders under cookware
Cutting boards to prevent scratches from knives
Felt pads under decorative items or appliances

These small precautions go a long way in preserving the natural shine and preventing costly repairs.

Step 4: Polishing Onyx Countertops

Over time, tiny scratches, etching, and dull spots may appear. Polishing restores the stone’s brilliance.

Professional polishing is recommended, as Onyx is delicate and can be easily damaged with DIY polishing kits.
Polishing removes minor blemishes, smooths the surface, and enhances the natural glow.
For best results, schedule polishing every few years or as needed, depending on use.

Why Choose Onyx for Your Home?

Despite requiring more maintenance than quartz or granite, Onyx remains a favorite among homeowners and designers who want:

A unique, luxurious aesthetic unmatched by other stones
The ability to backlight countertops or walls for a dramatic effect
A statement piece that sets kitchens, bathrooms, or living areas apart

If you’re considering Onyx—or want to explore durable quartz alternatives—Griffin Quartz countertop installation services can help you choose the perfect stone for your lifestyle..

Conclusion: Care Today, Beauty for a Lifetime

Onyx countertops are a stunning investment, but they require mindful care. To keep them looking flawless:

Clean daily with pH-neutral cleaners and soft cloths.
Seal regularly to prevent stains and etching.
Use protective measures like trivets and cutting boards.
Polish professionally to restore shine and remove imperfections.

By following this step-by-step routine, your Onyx countertops will retain their elegance and function for years to come.

Ready to upgrade your home with premium stone countertops? Contact Griffin Quartz today for expert installation and guidance.

Upgrade Your South Florida Home with Griffin Quartz

If you’re looking for quartz slabs for sale in South Florida, trust Griffin Quartz as your go-to partner. We offer an exclusive selection of premium slabs along with expert fabrication and professional installation—delivering countertops that combine luxury, durability, and long-term value.

Ready to elevate your kitchen or bathroom? Contact Griffin Quartz today for a free consultation and experience why homeowners across South Florida choose us as their quartz specialists.

For more information about stones, you may visit the Natural Stone Institute website.

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