Laminate worktop fading / Recommendations for new please

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We fitted new worktops around 18 months ago, it was the standard good quality matt black laminate worktop (Wilsonart Midnight Graphite). We have always been very careful and never cleaned it with harsh chemicals.

www.hcsupplies.co.uk/kitchen-worktops/midnight-granite-gloss-600mm-worktop-96.html

But it has lost the blackness and has gone more of a grey colour or you can say it has started fading near to sink which is very near to window as well. I can not see anywhere else at this stage.

We have already cleaned it with vinegar thinking of limescale from the water but it has not restored the blackness. Other thing I can think of sunlight on that part as it close to window? Already spoken to the manufacuter "WilsonArt) who are not very helpful to be honest.

I think replacement is the only solution. Which laminate worktop should I go for this time without worrying about for all these things at-least for few years, even some sort of matt or gloss laminate worktop where the scratches are not that visible as they will get scratched with the use and would look good even after few years. I can not afford granite or quartz at this stage. Please help.

My cabinets doors are Cream Gloss finish.

I can't advise on a brand, But I would suggest next time to go with a pattern so that any discoloration, stain or scratch will be hidden.

Thanks for your advice. Yes you are absolutely right, the one I am using at the moment even shows a small scratch or even small dust. Even it is matt laminate but still shows a small discolouration and damage.

Does it matter whether it is gloss or matt, because few posts suggest do not go for gloss?

Are you referring to (pattern / texture) something like below or something else?

www.hcsupplies.co.uk/kitchen-worktops/view-product-1388.html

I would go between matt and gloss (can't remember the proper term). I have the textured one and it is a pain to clean, stains stick to it . However it looks immune to scratches. Yes I was referring to something like your link or a wood effect laminate that looks like this www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/products/70273799/
it is light, dark and has a pattern that would distract if something alters it.

Personally when I'll change my worktops I'll go for the largest tiles I can find with the less grout possible, bomb proof. But I think laminate is the next best thing (can't justify spending thousands on a worktop)

disclaimer: the link is wood not laminate it's just to give an idea

Anybody using the following worktops, review would help to decide please. Cabinet doors are light cream high gloss. As suggested they all are pattern/textured worktops. Thanks,

Duropal Mirabelle Corro

Carnival Granite

Bella noche

I have Duropal worktops (mine are a wood effect) and very happy as they are nearly 3 yrs old now and good as new! Agree textured effect helps with any staining or scratches.