Butcher block counter tops are usually made from maple, oak and cherry woods. Cleaning is necessary to remove bacteria - the same as wooden cutting boards. Scratches may be removed by sanding and refinishing. Counter tops made of natural stone, such as limestone, granite and slate. But because stone tends to be more porous than other materials, it therefore is prone to staining without applications of a sealant every year or so.
Granite is hard but porous.
Though resistant to heat and scratches, it is not totally impervious and, therefore, rarely used for counter tops. It requires resealing with a penetrating sealer at least once every couple of years to prevent staining. Marble is not generally used in kitchen counters because it stains and scratches easily but may be used in bathrooms. It is also porous and requires periodic resealing to prevent staining. Limestone varies in hardness and is also a porous material that requires resealing.