Quartz countertops are popular in modern kitchens for their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, they can be prone to scratches, chips, and staining from hot pans and spills. Using trivets is an easy way to protect quartz counters and extend their lifespan. But with so many trivet materials and styles available, how do you choose what works best? Here is an in-depth look at the pros and cons of different trivet options for quartz countertops.
Benefits of Using Trivets on Quartz
Before exploring the best trivet materials, let’s review why trivets are so important for quartz:
- Prevent thermal shock – Quartz is very sensitive to sudden temperature changes. Hot pans can cause the resin binders in quartz to contract and expand rapidly resulting in cracks and fissures. Trivets dissipate heat.
- Avoid burns and stains – Trivets provide a heat barrier preventing scorch marks and stains from hot pans and spills.
- Reduce scratches – Trivets minimize friction that can dull and scratch quartz surfaces over time.
- Maintain beauty – Using trivets helps quartz retain its polished, like-new appearance for longer.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Trivets
To select the best trivets for your quartz countertops, keep these factors in mind:
- Heat resistance – Look for trivet materials that can withstand high temperatures from hot pans, appliances, etc.
- Thickness – Thicker trivets provide more effective heat insulation.
- Grip – Trivets with non-slip pads minimize movement and potential scratches.
- Size – Large trivets accommodate different sized cookware. Expandable trivets are very versatile.
- Style – Match trivet aesthetics to your kitchen décor.
- Budget – Prices range widely based on material and design.
Best Materials for Quartz Countertop Trivets
Here are the top trivet materials to consider for quartz counters:
Silicone Trivets
Silicone is one of the best materials for quartz trivets. Benefits include:
- Withstands temperatures up to 482°F
- Provides thick heat insulation
- Flexible and grippy to prevent shifting
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
- Affordable and come in many colors
The main downside is silicone can stain over time from oil and sauces.
Wood Trivets
Wood trivets are popular choices with pros and cons:
- Attractive natural material to match wood countertops
- Various wood types in different price ranges
- Can be carved into beautiful designs
- Prone to scratches and needs re-oiling
- Not as grippy as other materials
- Generally thinner and conducts more heat Avoid soft woods like pine that dent easily. Hardwoods like teak and maple are best.
Stone Trivets
Stone offers an elegant look but mixed performance:
- Withstands very high heat
- Marble, granite, slate come in lovely patterns
- Retains heat so bottom stays hot on countertop
- Can be heavy and slide around
- Porous natural stone harbors bacteria if not sealed
- Costly, especially for larger trivets
Stick with polished granite, marble, or engineered stone trivets. Avoid porous limestone or sandstone.
Metal Trivets
Metal trivets run the gamut from pros to cons:
- Excellent heat resistance depending on type
- Sleek, modern look in various shapes
- Cast iron retains heat longer than aluminum
- Can scratch quartz and be noisy when moved
- Minimal insulation if too thin
- Prone to rust over time
Opt for thick cast iron, aluminum, or stainless steel. Copper can stain quartz. Wrought iron is quite heavy.
Bamboo Trivets
As a natural fiber, bamboo has quirks:
- Sustainable, renewable material
- Organic look complements wood counters
- Prone to scorching from high heat
- Easily stained and not waterproof
- Thin so minimal insulation
- Slippery if lacks a grippy base
Bamboo is best for warm dishes vs. piping hot pans. Choose polyurethane-coated bamboo for added water resistance.
Glass Trivets
Glass trivets rank relatively low for quartz:
- Allows heat to transfer through to counter
- Slippery surface prone to scratches
- Can shatter if dropped
- Heat resistance varies by type
- Tempered glass is strongest for high temps
Glass looks stylish but lacks the functionality needed to properly protect quartz.
Ideal Trivet Size for Quartz Counters
The general rule of thumb is to use trivets on quartz counters that are at least 4-6 inches wider in diameter than your largest pots and pans. This prevents hot cookware from overhanging the trivet where residual heat could damage the quartz.
For most kitchens, a set of trivets in small, medium, and large sizes (approximately 4″, 6″, 10″ diameters) provides versatility for everyday use. Expandable silicone trivets are convenient since they adjust to different sizes. Individual silicone pads for pot handles are also handy.
Larger roasting pans and griddles may need specialty sized trivets up to 16-18 inches wide. But take care not to clutter your countertops with oversized trivets either.
Tips for Using Trivets to Protect Quartz
Follow these tips for safe, effective use of trivets on quartz:
- Preheat trivets – Set them on the stove first when cooking to minimize temperature shock to the quartz.
- Allow cookware to cool slightly before placing on trivet – don’t transfer piping hot.
- Use trivets under appliances like instant pots, coffeemakers, and mixers when in use or resting hot.
- Place silicone trivets grip-side down to prevent moving.
- Clean under trivets frequently to prevent dirt, oil buildup from becoming stains over time.
- Avoid abrasive trivets – soft, padded bottoms are ideal.
- Replace worn trivets – thicker is better for heat insulation.
Are Placemats a Good Substitute?
Basic placemats that are thin and lightweight provide minimal protection compared to quality trivets. However, silicone placemats are an exception. Silicone mats nearly 1/4-inch thick offer adequate insulation and grip to safeguard quartz. They lay flat for a tidy look when not cooking. Just be sure to get a size that fits your entire stovetop to prevent slippage when placing down hot pans.
Attractive Countertop Trivet Ideas for Quartz
Beyond basic round trivets, consider these creative options to protect your quartz while complementing your kitchen décor:
- Wood cutting board trivets with juice grooves
- Marble, granite, or slate trivets in fun geometric shapes
- Cast iron trivets embossed with botanical designs
- Silicone trivets mimicking strawberries, lemons, etc.
- Adjustable wire trivets in colorful enameled coatings
- Whimsical animal-shaped trivets for a playful accent
- Personalized engraved wood trivets for a custom element
Matching your trivets to the style of your kitchen helps them blend right in on the countertop rather than looking out of place when not in use. Just be sure aesthetic options still offer adequate heat protection for the quartz surface.
Best Quartz Countertop Trivets
Based on the trivet properties and tips provided, here are some top-rated trivet recommendations for quartz counters:
- Kuuk Silicone Trivet Set – Grippy bottom, inner non-slip pad, high 500°F heat resistance
- MIU France Expandable Trivet – Elegant, adjustable stainless steel with silicone base
- LORRAIN Wooden Trivet Set – Sleek unfinished teak trivets come in 3 convenient sizes
- Totally Bamboo Expandable Trivet – Single trivet grows from 6” to 18” diameter
- TrueCook Non-Slip Silicone Trivets – Set of 4 includes bonus handle gripper
- Gasland Cast Iron Trivet – Classic long-lasting heat retention
- Rachael Ray Stoneware Bubble Trivets – Fun modern design in 3 bright colors
- iPstyle Marble Trivet – Slate grey marble with non-slip cork backing
- Bellemain Thick Silicone Trivets – Extra grip and stability from raised edges
- LIFVER Heat Resistant Trivets – Set of 4 assorted colored silicone trivets
Be sure to measure your largest pots and pans and choose the right-sized quality trivets tailored for the heat protection your quartz counters need. Treat trivets as an investment to help maintain the beauty and integrity of your quartz for many years. With a bit of care and smart trivet use, your counters will continue looking pristine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are trivets necessary for quartz counters?
Yes, using trivets is highly recommended to protect quartz from thermal shock, hot pans, and spills that can damage or stain the material. The insulation trivets provide helps safeguard the Quartz.
What temperature can quartz withstand?
Quartz countertops can typically tolerate brief exposure to temperatures up to 300°F before possible cracking or discoloration occurs. Prolonged direct heat above 150°F is not recommended. Always use trivets as a precaution.
Do you need special cleaners for quartz trivets?
Basic mild dish soap and water are fine for cleaning most quartz trivets. Avoid abrasive scouring pads. For silicone trivets, use a bleach or vinegar solution to remove stains; avoid oil-based cleaners that can cause silicone to degrade.
Should you put hot pans on granite or marble trivets?
Caution is advisable when using stone trivets for extremely hot cookware. Stone retains heat well and can fracture from sudden temperature shocks. Let pans cool briefly before placing on marble or granite trivets.
Can you put an instant pot on a quartz counter?
Never place a hot instant pot or other heat-generating appliances directly on quartz. Always use a silicone trivet designed to withstand steaming temperatures beneath appliances to avoid potential damage.
Conclusion
Quartz offers a gorgeous, low maintenance countertop surface that can last for decades when properly cared for. Using quality trivets matched to your cookware is simple insurance to safeguard your investment. The right trivets effectively dissipate destructive heat, prevent scratches and stains, and maintain the pristine beauty of quartz counters to be enjoyed for years to come. Choose options with grippy bases, ample thickness, high heat resistance, and sizes suited for your needs. With smart trivet use, your quartz counters will impress family and guests with their timeless beauty.