Using quartz for your kitchen countertops can provide durability, easy maintenance, and style. However, it’s important to choose the right cleaner and polish to care for your quartz surfaces properly. Pledge is a popular wood polish and cleaner, but is it safe to use on quartz? Here’s what you need to know.
What is Pledge?
Pledge is a household cleaner made by S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. It was originally formulated in 1973 as a polish for wood furniture. Over the years, the Pledge brand has expanded to include Multi-Surface Cleaners and Dust & Allergen products as well.
The original Pledge furniture polish aims to clean, polish, and protect wood surfaces. It contains ingredients like mineral oil, natural wax, and lemon oil to moisturize, buff, and create a protective layer on wood. The formula helps repel dust and prevent fingerprints on treated wood surfaces.
Is It Safe to Use Pledge on Quartz Countertops?
The short answer is no, you should not use the original Pledge wood polish and cleaner on quartz countertops. Here are a few key reasons why:
Quartz has a Different Chemistry than Wood
Quartz countertops are made from crushed quartz combined with resins and pigments. This engineered stone has a completely different chemistry and porosity than natural wood. Solutions made for polishing and protecting wood won’t necessarily work well on quartz. The wax and oils in Pledge could create a residue.
Risk of Etching or Dulling
Original Pledge polish contains lemon oil, which is acidic. Acidic cleaners can damage quartz surfaces over time by etching or dulling the finish. Quartz is less prone to etching than marble, but prolonged exposure to acid can still deteriorate the glossy surface.
May Cause Buildup
The waxes and oils in Pledge could leave behind a cloudy, streaky residue on quartz countertops. This waxy buildup may be hard to remove from the non-porous surface. Any buildup diminishes the shine and beauty of quartz.
Not Formulated for Stone Surfaces
Pledge wood polish is designed for porous, absorptive wooden furniture and surfaces. It is not engineered to properly clean and maintain dense non-porous materials like natural stone or engineered quartz. The ingredients and effects are tailored for wood, not stone.
Best Practices for Cleaning Quartz Countertops
To safely clean and care for quartz countertops without causing damage, follow these best practices:
Use PH-Neutral Cleaners
Clean quartz regularly with a non-abrasive pH-neutral stone cleaner. Avoid acidic or alkaline cleansers which can etch or discolor the stone over time. Dish soap and water also works well for routine cleaning.
Skip the Waxes and Polishes
Unlike wood, quartz countertops never need waxes, oils or polishing sealants which will just build up. Simply use a damp microfiber cloth to remove surface dust and debris as needed.
Rinse Well After Cleaning
Make sure to rinse surfaces thoroughly after using any type of quartz-safe cleaner. Residual soapy film can attract dirt and dull the finish if not rinsed properly.
Blot Spills Quickly
Immediately blot any spills on a quartz countertop with a paper towel or damp cloth. Don’t let liquids sit and get absorbed into the surface.
Avoid Abrasive Pads and Cleaners
Aggressive scouring pads, along with abrasive cleaners like Comet or Ajax, could scratch the surface of quartz. Use soft cloths or non-abrasive sponges instead.
Alternative Products to Use on Quartz
Rather than using Pledge polish that’s formulated for wood, opt for one of these countertop cleaners specifically designed for quartz and stone:
- Stone cleaner polishes like Granite Gold Daily Cleaner
- Mild dish soap like Dawn or Seventh Generation
- A 50/50 vinegar and water solution for removing hard water marks
- Purpose-made quartz cleaners like Cambria’s Stone Soap
- Gentle all-purpose sprays like Method’s or Mrs. Meyer’s natural stone cleaner
The Bottom Line
Pledge wood polish and cleaner should never be used on quartz countertops. The waxy formula can leave residue buildup, dull the surface, and potentially cause etching long-term. To safely clean quartz, stick to mild pH-neutral stone cleaners and soaps designed to maintain the integrity of engineered stone. With the proper gentle cleaners and care, quartz countertops will retain their sparkling polished finish for years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Pledge on Quartz
Q: Can I use Pledge wipes on my quartz countertop?
A: No, you should avoid Pledge wipes as well as the liquid spray polish. Pledge products are not designed for engineered stone and may leave an oily residue.
Q: What happens if you accidentally use Pledge on a quartz countertop?
A: If Pledge wood cleaner is accidentally applied to quartz, rinse the surface thoroughly with warm water. Use a soft cloth or sponge with a small amount of mild soap and water to remove any residual streaks or buildup. Avoid abrasive pads.
Q: Can I use Pledge to make my quartz countertops shiny?
A: No, do not use Pledge or any wax, seals, or polishes to try to make quartz countertops shinier. The engineered stone material does not require protective sealing like natural stone. Use a damp microfiber cloth to gently buff away any dull areas.
Q: Is there a Pledge product specifically made for use on quartz?
A: Currently, no Pledge cleaner or polish is formulated specifically for use on engineered quartz surfaces. Pledge Multi-Surface Cleaner may be labeled safe for use on quartz, but a pH-neutral stone cleaner is still recommended.
Q: Can I use Pledge on quartz bathroom countertops and surfaces?
A: No, avoid using Pledge wood cleaner on quartz bathroom vanity tops and surfaces. The oils could leave residue and the lemon oil could eventually etch the polished quartz around sinks. Use a squeegee after showering and wipe with a quartz-safe cleaner.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops require specialized stone cleaners to prevent damage to the engineered surface. Wood polishes like Pledge contain waxes, lemon oils, and other ingredients unsuitable for quartz. To safely clean and maintain the finish, use only non-abrasive pH-neutral cleaners designed specifically for quartz and stone. With proper care, quartz countertops can stay looking like new for many years without the need for waxes or polishing agents.