Vinegar is often touted as a natural, chemical-free cleaning solution. Its acidic properties allow it to dissolve mineral deposits, remove grease, and sanitize surfaces. This has led many people to wonder — can you use diluted vinegar on quartz countertops? The short answer is yes, diluted white vinegar is generally safe for cleaning quartz countertops. However, there are a few caveats to keep in mind.
An Introduction to Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, have become immensely popular in recent years. Made from ground quartz crystals combined with resin and pigments, quartz offers an attractive, low-maintenance, and durable alternative to natural stone countertops like granite and marble.
Some key attributes of quartz countertops include:
- Highly resistant to stains, scratches, and heat
- Non-porous so less prone to harboring bacteria
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns
- Does not require annual sealing like natural stone
While quartz is remarkably resilient, it’s not impervious. Proper care and cleaning are important for keeping quartz looking like new.
Using Diluted Vinegar on Quartz
White vinegar, which contains acetic acid, can be an effective cleaner for quartz countertops. When diluted with water, it is generally considered safe for routine cleaning.
Here are some tips for using diluted vinegar on quartz:
- Dilute it – Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Undiluted vinegar is too acidic and could etch or dull the surface over time.
- Wash with care – Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wash the quartz. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
- Rinse thoroughly – Vinegar can leave behind a filmy residue if not rinsed off completely. Make sure to rinse several times with clean water.
- Focus on problem areas – Use diluted vinegar to tackle specific stains, dried spills, soap scum, and hard water deposits. Don’t wipe down the whole counter every day.
- Buff to shine – Follow up with a dry microfiber cloth to buff the quartz and remove any leftover streaks.
- Never mix with bleach – Vinegar mixed with bleach creates chlorine gas, which is toxic and can damage surfaces.
Best Practices for Cleaning Quartz with Vinegar
To safely clean quartz countertops with diluted vinegar, follow these best practices:
Test First on a Small Area
Before cleaning the entire surface, do a spot test on an inconspicuous area to ensure the vinegar solution does not damage or etch the quartz.
Use Warm Water
Warm water helps dissolve and cut through messes better than cold. Dilute the vinegar with an equal amount of warm water.
Avoid Harsh Acids
Stick to white vinegar. Avoid lemon juice, citrus-based cleaners, or industrial acids which can damage quartz.
Don’t Soak Surfaces
Apply the diluted vinegar and let it sit for just a minute or two before wiping clean. Don’t let vinegar pool or soak into seams.
Use a pH-Neutral Stone Cleaner Weekly
For routine maintenance, use a mild pH-balanced stone cleaner instead of vinegar. Vinegar should only be used for occasional deep cleaning.
Always Rinse Thoroughly
Make sure to rinse any vinegar residue off the quartz so it does not continue eating away at the surface. Dry completely.
Never Use Undiluted Vinegar
Full-strength vinegar is too harsh. Always dilute with an equal part water to make it safe for quartz.
Can You Use Apple Cider Vinegar on Quartz?
Clear white distilled vinegar is the best type of vinegar to use on quartz countertops. Avoid apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, and other flavored vinegars which may stain. The added color and sugars can leave behind a sticky residue. Stick with plain white vinegar.
How to Clean Quartz Countertops Properly
While diluted white vinegar can be used occasionally for deep cleaning quartz countertops, it’s not ideal for daily maintenance. Here are some recommended cleaners and techniques:
- Clear quartz-specific stone cleaners – Use a mild cleaner made for engineered stone 1-2 times per week.
- Dish soap and warm water – For daily cleaning, use a couple drops of mild dish soap and warm water applied with a soft sponge or cloth.
- Baking soda – Make a paste with baking soda and water to gently scrub away stuck-on messes. Rinse thoroughly after.
- Hydrogen peroxide – Helps remove stubborn stains by lifting them to the surface. Rinse immediately.
- Microfiber cloths – Use one damp and one dry microfiber cloth to clean and shine the quartz.
Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive pads or brushes. Follow up cleaning with a stone sealer every 1-2 years for added protection. With proper care, quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years.
Can You Use Undiluted Vinegar on Quartz?
Full strength, undiluted vinegar is too acidic for use on quartz counters. The acetic acid content is so high that it can eat away at the resin binding agents over time, causing etching and pits. Always dilute white distilled vinegar with an equal amount of water to make it safe to use on quartz surfaces.
How to Remove Vinegar Stains from Quartz
If diluted vinegar is left to sit too long and stains or etches the quartz, don’t panic. You may be able to remove vinegar stains with baking soda:
- Make a paste of baking soda and water.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge to apply the paste to the affected area.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Scrub gently and then rinse thoroughly.
- Dry the area with a clean microfiber cloth.
- Repeat as needed for stubborn stains.
Applying a quartz sealer can also help diminish the look of mild etching over time. Just take care to properly dilute and rinse vinegar in the future to avoid permanent damage.
The Bottom Line
Quartz countertops are lovely and low maintenance. With proper care, they will stay looking pristine for decades. White distilled vinegar diluted with an equal amount of water can be used occasionally to clean quartz counters and tackle pesky stains and buildup. But harsh acids should be avoided for routine maintenance. Always test vinegar on a small spot first and never leave it to sit. With the right gentle cleaning approach, you can safely keep quartz counters sparkling.