There is a layer of sealant on top. It is honestly quite carefree and i've had it for 3 years. Just buy a good kitchen cloth (i use 3M) and a good wipedown is all it needs. My brother cooks indomee occasionally and i've wiped off his mess from the dark soy sauce and oil only a few days later when i noticed it. No permanent stains as it is all on top of the sealant. You can go to the showroom and touch the surface.