What are Quartz Countertops?

Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz provides strength and durability, while the resins bind the material together.

Some key features of quartz countertops:

Extremely durable – resistant to scratches, stains and heat
Low maintenance – does not require regular sealing
Non-porous – prevents bacteria growth
Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
Resists cracks and chips
Not as prone to etching as natural stone
Does not need polishing over time

Are Lysol Wipes Safe for Quartz?

The short answer is yes, Lysol wipes can generally be used safely on quartz countertops. However, there are some important caveats to keep in mind:

Use the right Lysol product – Lysol makes many different types of wipes. Avoid their bleach-containing products and instead use their disinfecting wipes that do not contain bleach. Bleach can damage and discolor quartz.
Don’t overuse them – While occasional use of Lysol wipes is fine, using them multiple times a day every day could lead to gradual damage over time. Stick to daily cleaning with a mild soap and water.
Avoid abrasives – Many Lysol wipes contain textured material that provides light scrubbing ability. This is fine occasionally, but avoid using the roughest wipes daily as it could gradually dull the surface.
Don’t let it sit – Don’t leave the Lysol wipe solution sitting on the counter for an extended period of time after cleaning. Wipe it dry relatively soon after applying the cleaner.
Spot test first – As always when using a new cleaning product on any surface, do a spot test on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the material.

Proper Procedure for Using Lysol on Quartz

When using Lysol wipes on your quartz countertops, follow these steps:

Select the appropriate Lysol wipe that is bleach-free and not too abrasive. The Lysol Disinfecting Wipes are a good choice.
Clear the countertop of any items or appliances. Remove any dirt or debris with a paper towel.
Take out a Lysol wipe from the container and wipe down a small, inconspicuous test spot first. Check to make sure it does not affect the finish.
Once verified as safe, use the Lysol wipe to wipe the entire surface, using small circular motions. Apply even pressure.
Wipe just until the surface is clean and free of visible dirt and marks. Avoid excessive scrubbing pressure.
Allow the surface to air dry. Wipe up any excess moisture with a clean microfiber cloth so it does not pool.
Reapply as needed for any remaining spots, but avoid over-wiping as the chemicals could build up.
Clean any soap residue left behind with fresh water and dry with a towel.

Tips for Maintaining Quartz Countertops

To safely keep quartz counters clean and undamaged:

For daily cleaning, use a mild soap/detergent and water. Avoid abrasive scrubbers.
Blot up spills immediately before they have a chance to stain.
Regularly clean with a stone-safe cleaner made for quartz.
Avoid exposing the surface to strong chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners, etc.
Use trivets and hot pads under hot pans and dishes.
Keep oils, wines, and acidic foods wiped up to avoid etching.
Don’t cut directly on the counter. Always use a cutting board.
Reseal around the edges every 1-2 years with a color-matched caulk.

Alternatives to Lysol Wipes for Quartz

If you prefer not to use Lysol wipes on your quartz countertops, some alternative options include:

Dish soap and water – A mild detergent and water solution can be effective for most daily cleaning. Avoid more caustic soaps.
Vinegar – Helpful for disinfecting and cutting through grease. Mix a 50/50 solution of vinegar and water.
Hydrogen peroxide – Acts as a mild bleaching agent to help remove stains.
Rubbing alcohol – Disinfects and cleans without leaving a film.
Quartz-specific cleaners – Products made specially for engineered stone are gentle on the material.

Can I Use Lysol Wipes on Quartz Countertops? The Bottom Line

Lysol disinfecting wipes are generally considered safe for quartz countertops, as long as you properly follow the usage guidelines. Use bleach-free wipes, avoid too much scrubbing force, promptly wipe up excess moisture, and limit use to only occasional cleaning. For day-to-day maintenance, stick to a mild soap/water solution or a cleaner specifically designed for quartz surfaces. With the proper care and cleaning methods, quartz countertops should retain their beauty for many years.

Can I Use Lysol Wipes on Quartz Countertops? – FAQs

Is it okay if I accidentally used a Lysol wipe with bleach on my quartz countertop?

Using a Lysol wipe with bleach once or twice is unlikely to cause permanent damage. However, repeated use of bleach could result in discoloration over time. Going forward, switch to a bleach-free Lysol product or another cleaning method. If you notice any lightening of the surface after using bleach, discontinue use.

Can using Lysol wipes on quartz degrade the sealer?

Quartz does not require sealing like natural stone. The material is non-porous, so sealants cannot penetrate or wear away. Using Lysol wipes as directed will not degrade a quartz countertop’s surface. Avoid excessive scrubbing force and promptly dry the surface after cleaning.

How often can I use Lysol wipes on a quartz backsplash?

For a backsplash, an occasional wipe-down with Lysol is fine. However, you’ll want to limit it to just a couple times per week at most. Frequent use in a concentrated area could lead to gradual discoloration or etching over time. Use a diluted vinegar or hydrogen peroxide mix for more regular backsplash cleaning.

Will Lysol wipes stain my white quartz countertop?

White quartz is prone to staining from certain materials, including dyes from colored paper towels. Lysol wipes contain dye that could technically stain if left to sit for an extended time. However, promptly wiping the surface dry after using Lysol should prevent any staining issues. Always check for colorfastness before cleaning.

Can I use a Lysol wipe to remove dried coffee stains from quartz?

Yes, you can use a Lysol disinfecting wipe to clean dried coffee stains on quartz. Gently wipe the stain with a Lysol wipe, allowing the solution to soak in for 30-60 seconds. Then scrub lightly and wipe dry. Avoid excessive force. For best results, clean coffee spills immediately before the stain has a chance to set.

Is it safe to use Lysol wipes near the seam of a quartz countertop?

It’s best to avoid excessive use of Lysol wipes near the seams or edges of a quartz countertop. The joins are most prone to damage from moisture or chemicals. Limit use of Lysol wipes to only occasional overall cleaning. For regular upkeep near seams, use a quartz-safe stone cleaner and a soft microfiber cloth.

Can Lysol wipes damage the finish of polished quartz countertops?

Lysol wipes contain chemical cleaners that could potentially dull or etch quartz’s polished finish if used too aggressively and frequently. To protect the finish, avoid scrubbing forcefully with Lysol wipes. Also, limit Lysol use to occasional deeper cleanings rather than daily cleaning. With proper care, the finish should remain undamaged.

Are there any quartz manufacturers that prohibit using Lysol wipes?

Most major quartz manufacturers such as Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone do not prohibit using Lysol wipes. However, always check your specific product warranty and use Lysol carefully according to their guidelines to avoid damage. Some small quartz makers may restrict certain cleaners, so verify before use.

What’s the best way to sanitize my quartz countertops without using Lysol wipes?

To naturally sanitize quartz without Lysol wipes, make a cleansing spray using a 10% solution of hydrogen peroxide in water. Spritz the mixture on the surface and let sit briefly before wiping clean with a microfiber cloth. Undiluted white vinegar is also an effective sanitizer for quartz counters when applied for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.

Conclusion

Lysol disinfecting wipes are a convenient way to clean quartz countertops while eliminating bacteria. With responsible use by following the proper procedures, Lysol wipes can keep your quartz counters hygienic without damaging the durable material. Stick to the bleach-free wipes, never soak the surface, and avoid overly frequent scrubbing. For the best results, incorporate Lysol wipes as part of your overall quartz cleaning routine alongside daily soap and water cleaning. With this balanced approach, you can safely incorporate this popular disinfectant to care for your engineered stone surfaces.