An In-Depth Guide on Cleaning Quartz Countertops
What are Quartz Countertops?
Before diving into cleaning, let’s first look at what defines quartz countertops. As mentioned above, quartz countertops are engineered from quartz crystals held together with resins, polymers, and pigments. The exact ratios vary between manufacturers, but quartz countertops typically contain over 90% ground quartz combined with under 10% resins and polymers.
Some key advantages of quartz countertops include:
- Durability: Quartz is resilient and able to withstand impacts. It does not easily scratch, dent, or chip.
- Stain-resistance: The resins make quartz highly stain-resistant and non-porous. Liquids and spills will bead up on the surface instead of soaking in.
- Heat-resistance: Quartz can withstand heat up to 212°F before possible discoloration or damage. This makes it more heat-tolerant than many other countertop materials.
- Low-maintenance: Quartz requires very little regular maintenance. Simple cleaning with soap and water is often sufficient.
- Appearance: Quartz comes in a wide array of colors and patterns that resemble natural stone. The pigments added during manufacturing give quartz an attractive, stylish look.
With proper care, a quartz countertop can last for many years in both home kitchens and commercial settings. But it’s still important to be mindful of cleaning do’s and don’ts to avoid damaging the surface.
Can You Use Clorox Wipes on Quartz?
Yes, you can use Clorox Disinfecting Wipes on quartz countertops. Clorox wipes contain sodium hypochlorite (bleach), which is safe for cleaning quartz surfaces.
Using Clorox wipes to regularly clean and disinfect quartz countertops is an easy and effective cleaning strategy. The wipes quickly eliminate most dirt, grime, food residue, and bacteria from the non-porous quartz material. Clorox wipes are also convenient for quick cleanups when needed between deeper cleaning sessions.
However, there are a few precautions to take when using Clorox or other disinfecting wipes on quartz:
- Avoid highly abrasive wipes: Some cleaning wipes contain micro-scrubs or gritty particles meant for scrubbing stubborn dirt and stains. These may end up abrading or dulling the surface of quartz over time with repeated use. Stick to gentler, smooth wipes.
- Spot test first: Before using any new cleaning product on a large area, do a test spot on an inconspicuous area of the quartz to check for any damage or discoloration.
- Blot rather than wipe: Aggressively wiping the wipes across the quartz can spread around dirt. Instead, gently press and hold the wipe on soiled areas to lift residue.
- Rinse after: Make sure to thoroughly rinse the countertop with clean water after wiping with Clorox or other cleaners. Residue left on the surface can lead to buildup and dullness.
With these precautions, Clorox and other sanitizing wipes can be used as part of your regular quartz cleaning routine. Just be careful not to over-use them or use abrasive varieties.
Best Practices for Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Clorox wipes are convenient but shouldn’t be the only cleaning method used on quartz countertops. Here are some best practices for keeping quartz sparkling:
1. Daily Cleaning
- Clear counters of clutter, crumbs, and spills.
- Use a soft microfiber cloth with warm water and a small amount of mild soap to wipe down the entire surface.
- Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.
2. Weekly Deep Cleaning
- Clean the quartz with a quartz-specific cleaner or stone/granite cleaner according to label directions. Stone cleaners help remove soap scum and hard water buildup.
- Alternatively, make a cleaning paste by mixing dish soap and baking soda. Apply the paste and let sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
3. Treating Stains and Marks
- Blot up spills immediately to prevent stains. For dried stains, use a plastic scraper to gently lift off residue before cleaning.
- For stubborn marks and stains, make a poultice by mixing baking soda and hydrogen peroxide into a paste. Apply to the stain and cover with plastic wrap overnight before rinsing.
- Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads or powders, as well as acidic cleaners like vinegar, that could etch or dull the surface.
4. Preventative Care
- Use trivets and hot pads under hot pots and pans.
- Seal and re-seal quartz regularly with a stone sealer.
- Don’t cut directly on quartz to avoid scratches. Always use a cutting board.
5. Avoid Damage from Harsh Cleaners
Steer clear of the following types of cleaners that can harm quartz:
- Vinegar or lemon juice (too acidic)
- Alkaline cleaners like ammonia or bleach concentrates
- Abrasive scouring pads
- Acetone
- Oven or drain cleaners
By using Clorox wipes judiciously along with the proper routine cleaning and maintenance strategies above, you can safely keep your quartz countertops looking like new for years. With some basic care, quartz countertops will retain their durability, luster, and beauty as an elegant and functional element of your kitchen or bath design.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Can quartz countertops withstand heat?
Quartz can generally withstand brief exposure to heat up to 212°F without damage. However, prolonged direct heat could cause discoloration. Always use trivets and hot pads when placing hot pots, pans, etc on quartz.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
Though quartz is non-porous, sealing is still recommended every 1-2 years to add an extra layer of protection from stains and etching. Use a product specifically formulated for sealing stone and quartz.
What’s the best way to get rid of dried stains on quartz?
For dried stains, gently scrape off any residue with a plastic putty knife. Make a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide and let it sit overnight covered in plastic wrap before scrubbing and rinsing.
Can you use vinegar to clean quartz countertops?
Vinegar, lemon juice, and other acidic cleaners should NOT be used on quartz, as they can etch and dull the surface over time. Stick to mild soap and water or stone-safe cleaners.
How can I make my quartz counters shine?
Regular cleaning with a quartz polish will help enhance shine and luster. You can also buff the surface using a soft cloth with a small amount of olive oil. Avoid wax, as it can cause buildup.
Is it okay to use bleach on quartz?
In general, avoid harsh bleach. If disinfecting is needed, a mild bleach cleaner or Clorox wipes are okay for occasional use. But be sure to rinse thoroughly after to remove any residue. Harsh concentrated bleach can damage quartz over time.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning and maintenance with the right products will keep your quartz countertops looking like new for many years. Clorox disinfecting wipes provide a convenient and effective way to sanitize quartz surfaces while removing common grime and messes between deep cleanings. However, be sure not to over-use them, rinse thoroughly after use, and incorporate other best practices like sealing to prevent long-term damage. With some basic care, you can safely use Clorox wipes as part of your quartz cleaning regimen.