When it comes to bathroom countertops, durability and stain resistance are must-haves. These surfaces are subject to a lot of moisture and can be prone to damage from splashes and spills, heat, and general bathroom chaos (think: dripping toothpaste, dropped hairdryers, and all those hand soaps and lotions). The good news is that there’s a wide range of countertop materials to choose from that will stand up to this kind of wear and tear, and complement your overall decor style as well.

Natural stone countertops are a classic option that’s both visually appealing and incredibly durable. These include marble, granite, slate, and travertine. Each offers its own unique look and feel, ranging from rich and luxurious to earthy and rugged. Natural stone counters are a great option for a master bathroom, where they can elevate the entire room’s look and feel. However, these types of counters are usually more expensive than other options and require regular sealing to protect against water damage.

Engineered stone like quartz is a popular alternative to natural stone countertops. Manufacturers add resins, minerals, and pigments to natural stone to create countertops that are heat and scratch-resistant, with a look of real natural stone without some of the drawbacks. Quartz is also less porous than granite and doesn’t require periodic resealing.

A modern and affordable option is Corian, a solid-surface material that’s available in a variety of colors. This nonporous, Kitchen remodeling stain-resistant surface is easy to clean and can be molded into custom shapes to accommodate sinks and other fixtures. It’s also relatively durable, and can stand up to a drop or two of glass or metal.

Concrete is another durable and customizable bathroom countertop idea. This material can be shaped into a smooth slab to host a built-in sink and can also be dyed or molded to create interesting textures and finishes. This sleek material lightens a space, works with dark cabinets, and complements polished chrome faucets and hardware. Concrete is a bit more expensive than other bathroom countertop materials, but it’s also long-lasting and durable.

Honed green marble is a bathroom countertop idea that brings an old-world vibe to a space. Its dramatic veining accentuates an antique vanity and works beautifully with black wrought-iron sconces and bronze fixtures.

While wood counters can be a beautiful addition to any space, it’s not the most practical option for bathrooms. These counters can warp from the humidity and may be damaged by moisture, especially if the wood is not sealed correctly when first installed.

Plywood, on the other hand, is a sturdy, water-resistant option that’s ideal for bathrooms. It’s composed of numerous wood veneers bonded together to create stacked sheets that resist expansion and contraction in response to changes in humidity, wetness, or temperature. While it’s a great choice for budget-friendly countertops, it is not a good material for decorative or painted surfaces.