What is Soft Scrub?
Soft Scrub is a brand of household cleaning products known for their abrasive cleaners. Their cleansers contain small scrubbing particles and chemicals designed to cut through tough messes like dirt, grease, soap scum, and hard water stains.
While Soft Scrub products are very effective at cleaning many surfaces, they are also abrasive. This abrasiveness makes them too harsh for more delicate surfaces.
Is Soft Scrub Safe for Quartz?
The short answer is no. Quartz countertop manufacturers unanimously agree that Soft Scrub and other abrasive cleansers should not be used. The scrubbing particles in these cleaners can damage and dull the quartz surface over time with repeated use.
Quartz is an engineered stone made from natural quartz crystals held together by resins and polymers. It has a glossy, non-porous surface that resists scratching and stains. However, quartz is not impervious to damage from abrasives. The resin binders that give quartz its durability are softer than the quartz crystals. Over time, abrasive cleaners wear down the resins, causing permanent etching and scratches.
Recommended Cleaners for Quartz
To safely clean quartz, use a gentle pH-neutral cleaner made specifically for stone surfaces. Look for products labeled as safe for quartz or engineered stone. Some popular options include:
- Method Daily Granite & Stone Cleaner
- StoneTech Revitalizer Cleaner
- Zep Commercial Stone Cleaner
- Seventh Generation Stone & Stainless Steel Cleaner
Avoid cleaners containing lemon, vinegar or other acids. While acid-based cleaners can be great for countertop materials like granite, they can etch or dull quartz surfaces.
For tough stains on quartz, a non-abrasive soft scrub cleaner like Bar Keeper’s Friend Soft Cleanser or BonAmi Powder Cleanser are good options. They provide scrubbing action without harsh particles.
Always avoid abrasive scrub sponges and pads, which can scratch quartz. Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth when cleaning.
Daily and Deep Cleaning Tips for Quartz
- For daily cleaning, wipe with a soft sponge and mild soap and water. Rinse well and dry with a clean towel.
- For a deep clean, use a specialized quartz cleaner and soft scrub brush or sponge to gently remove built-up grime.
- Blot spills quickly to prevent staining. Don’t let liquids sit on the surface.
- Clean up food messes promptly to prevent etching. Acids from items like wine, juice or tomatoes can damage quartz.
- Avoid applying pressure or scrubbing too vigorously. Let the cleaning products do the work.
- Reseal quartz countertops every 1-2 years with a quartz-safe sealer to protect the surface.
Conclusion
Soft Scrub and other abrasive cleaners should never be used on quartz counters. The tiny scrubbing particles in these strong cleansers will scratch and damage quartz over time. Always stick to gentle, pH-balanced cleaners specifically formulated to be safe for engineered stone. With proper care using non-abrasive cleaners, quartz countertops will retain their beauty and luster for many years. Handle spills promptly, clean regularly with a soft sponge, and reseal periodically for sparkling quartz counters.
Can I Use Soft Scrub on Quartz Countertop?
Soft Scrub and other abrasive cleansers should never be used on quartz counters. The tiny scrubbing particles in these strong cleansers will scratch and damage quartz over time. Here are some do’s and don’ts for cleaning quartz countertops:
Don’t Use Abrasive Cleaners
- Soft Scrub
- Ajax
- Comet
- Bon Ami with Bleach
- Magic Erasers
- Anything with gritty particles or lemon/vinegar
These can abrade and etch the surface.
Do Use pH-Neutral Stone Cleaners
- Method Daily Granite & Stone Cleaner
- StoneTech Revitalizer Cleaner
- Seventh Generation Stone & Stainless Steel Cleaner
Look for “safe for quartz” on the label.
Do Use Soft-Scrub Cleaners Without Particles
- Bar Keeper’s Friend Soft Cleanser
- Bon Ami Powder Cleanser
These provide cleaning power without scratching.
Do Blot Spills Quickly
Don’t let liquids sit on the quartz. Acids from wine, tomato sauce, etc. can etch.
Do Clean With a Soft Sponge
Avoid abrasive pads/tools. Let the cleaner do the work, not your muscle.
Do Reseal Every 1-2 Years
Resealing quartz helps protect the surface from stains and etching.
Conclusion
With the right gentle cleaners and proper care, quartz counters will stay gorgeous for years. Avoid abrasives, wipe spills fast, and reseal regularly. Your quartz will continue looking like new.
FAQs About Using Soft Scrub on Quartz
Can I use Soft Scrub Daily Shower Cleaner on my quartz shower walls?
No, Soft Scrub Daily Shower Cleaner contains abrasives and should not be used on quartz shower walls or any other quartz surface. Use a gentle stone-safe cleaner instead.
What about Soft Scrub with Bleach – is that okay for quartz?
No. Any Soft Scrub cleanser contains abrasives that can damage quartz over time. The bleach in the formula makes it even more unsuitable for quartz.
If Soft Scrub is so abrasive, can it etch or damage my quartz sink?
Yes, Soft Scrub and other abrasive cleansers can definitely cause etching and scratches on quartz sinks. Always stick to pH-neutral cleaners safe for stone.
I have a tough stain on my quartz – can I use Soft Scrub just this once?
It’s best not to use Soft Scrub on quartz even for one-time tough stains. It will likely damage the surface. Try a soft scrub cleaner without abrasives like Bar Keeper’s Friend instead.
Are Magic Eraser sponges safe for quartz?
No, Magic Erasers are too abrasive for quartz. Their texture can scratch and dull the surface over time. Use a non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth instead.
How do I remove hard water stains from my quartz without Soft Scrub?
Hard water stains on quartz can be removed with a little bit of patience and a good quartz-safe cleaner. Let the cleaner soak for a few minutes before gently scrubbing with a soft sponge. Repeat as needed.
In Conclusion: Treat Quartz Gently
- Quartz requires a gentle touch when cleaning.
- Avoid temptation to use harsh abrasive cleaners like Soft Scrub.
- Stick to pH-balanced cleaners specifically made for engineered stone.
- Blot spills quickly and clean regularly to keep quartz counters pristine.
- With proper care, quartz can stay looking new for many years.
- Harsh cleaners like Soft Scrub will eventually damage and dull the quartz.
- Be patient and let quartz-safe cleaners do the work – don’t scrub aggressively.
- Resealing every 1-2 years adds extra protection.
- Keeping quartz surfaces free from abrasives preserves their beauty.