When selecting a vanity top, it’s natural to wonder how it will hold up to everyday use, particularly when it comes to staining. Both StoneCast and acrylic are well-regarded materials in contemporary bathroom design, but they behave differently when exposed to products like makeup, toothpaste, hair dye, and hard water. So, do they stain? Here’s what to know.
Yes, StoneCast can stain — especially in matte finishes.
StoneCast is made from natural Dolomite stone and high-performance resins, giving it a premium appearance and solid feel. However, StoneCast tops are naturally porous, with matte white finishes being more absorbent than gloss. This increased porosity makes them more susceptible to staining from products like hair dye, makeup, or toothpaste if spills aren’t cleaned promptly.
Routine cleaning is key to maintaining the appearance of StoneCast vanity tops. Soft cloths and non-abrasive cleaners are best for everyday care. For hair dye stains, a fine polishing sandpaper can be used gently to remove them. The matte surface also tends to show hard water residue more easily, so regular wiping after use can help prevent limescale build-up.
That said, with proper care, StoneCast can remain looking pristine for years. It’s a popular choice for those who prioritise design and don’t mind the occasional bit of extra maintenance.
Acrylic tops are highly stain-resistant.
Made from a smooth, non-porous material, acrylic surfaces naturally repel most stains. Everyday bathroom products are unlikely to leave marks, and cleaning usually requires nothing more than a soft cloth and mild household cleaner.
Because they’re seamless and often integrated with the basin, acrylic tops leave no gaps for grime to collect. They’re ideal for busy households or shared bathrooms where convenience and easy cleaning are a priority. However, while staining is rare, acrylic can scratch more easily than StoneCast, especially if abrasive cleaners are used.
If stain resistance is your top priority, acrylic has the edge. Its non-porous surface makes it easier to maintain, particularly in high-use family bathrooms.
StoneCast, especially in matte white, offers a more luxurious look and a tactile feel, but it does require more attention to cleaning — especially when it comes to staining agents like hair dye. Gloss StoneCast tops offer a bit more protection, but still benefit from regular care.
Whether your priority is stain resistance or visual impact, Newtech offers vanity top solutions in both StoneCast and acrylic to suit a range of design preferences. StoneCast slab tops bring sculptural elegance to collections like Savanna and Boulevard, making them ideal for statement bathrooms. For a more streamlined, low-maintenance option, acrylic tops provide a clean, modern look and are available across Newtech’s wider vanity range.
Not sure which vanity top suits your needs best? Contact our team at sales@newtech.co.nz or call 0800 728 662 to speak with a Newtech bathroom specialist for personalised advice.