Can You Use WD40 on Quartz Countertops?

Quartz countertops are a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and low maintenance. However, like any surface, quartz can suffer from stains, scratches, and buildup over time. This often leads homeowners to wonder if they can use WD-40 to clean and restore their quartz countertops.

What is Quartz?

Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The exact combination can vary between manufacturers, but quartz countertops typically contain over 90% ground quartz along with coloring agents and binding resins.

The result is a hard, non-porous surface that is resistant to stains, scratches, heat, and bacteria growth. Quartz requires very little maintenance compared to natural stone and other countertop materials. It does not need to be regularly sealed like granite or marble. The resin binders make quartz more flexible and less prone to chipping or cracking.

Benefits of Quartz Countertops

There are several reasons why quartz has become a go-to choice for countertops:

Durability – Quartz is extremely hard and scratch resistant. It stands up well to heavy usage in kitchens. The resin binders add flexibility and impact resistance.
Low Maintenance – Quartz does not require regular sealing or polishing. Simple cleaning with soap and water is often all it needs.
Stain Resistance – The non-porous surface resists stains from spills, oils, and juices. Acidic substances like lemon juice or tomato sauce will not etch or discolor quartz.
Color Consistency – The pigments added during manufacturing ensure a consistent color throughout the slab and from slab to slab.
Versatile Styling – Quartz comes in a wide array of colors and patterns to fit any design aesthetic. Popular styles mimic natural stone as well as solid colors.
Antibacterial – The natural quartz does not support bacterial growth, making quartz a hygienic choice.

Disadvantages of Quartz Surfaces

While quartz has many benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

Cost – Quartz is more expensive than laminate countertops and some natural stone surfaces like granite. The average installed cost runs $60-100 per square foot.
Seams – The manufacturing process results in quartz slabs smaller than natural stone, so seams are often necessary, especially for larger countertops.
Heat Sensitivity – While quartz is generally heat resistant, extreme direct heat can damage the resin binders. Trivets or hot pads should be used.
Repair Limitations – Severe damage may require full slab replacement since quartz cannot be repaired seamlessly like natural stone.
** Limited Colors/Patterns** – The color and pattern options, while abundant, are still restricted compared to natural stone which has unlimited variation.

Cleaning and Care for Quartz Countertops

Caring for quartz countertops does not require specialized stone cleaners or sealers. Here are some tips for keeping quartz surfaces looking like new:

Clean frequently with a mild soap and water solution. Rinse well and dry with a soft cloth.
For dried spills or stains, use a non-abrasive cleaning pad and baking soda/water paste. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.
Avoid abrasive cleaners and scrubbing pads which can dull the surface over time.
Blot up spills immediately before they have a chance to set and stain.
Use trivets and hot pads under hot pots and pans to prevent damage from extreme heat.
Re-apply a gentle surface polish every 1-2 years if desired to restore the original luster.
Check manufacturer care guidelines for any specific recommendations.

With regular light cleaning, quartz requires minimal maintenance to stay looking pristine for years.

Is WD-40 Safe on Quartz?

WD-40 is a popular multi-use product found in many homes and garages. Its solvent properties make it useful for lubricating hinges, removing grease buildup, and loosening stuck parts. This leads many to wonder – can it be safely used to clean quartz surfaces?

Unfortunately, WD-40 is not recommended for use on quartz countertops. Here are the key reasons why:

Harsh solvents – WD-40 contains mineral spirits, Stoddard solvent, and other strong solvents that can damage the resin binders in quartz.
Leaves residue – WD-40 leaves an oily residue after use that is difficult to remove from quartz. This can lead to buildup and affect the appearance.
No cleaning benefit – WD-40 is not formulated as a cleaner. It does not have ingredients to effectively break down grime or stains on quartz.
Voids warranty – Many quartz manufacturers warn that WD-40 can damage the surface and void the warranty.

Instead of WD-40, it is much safer for quartz countertops to use a mild soap and water solution, along with baking soda for scrubbing away dried spills.

Using WD-40 on Quartz Risks

There are several risks associated with using WD-40 to clean quartz countertops:

Damage to resin – The mineral spirits in WD-40 can deteriorate the polyester and epoxy resins that bind the quartz particles together. This damage is permanent.
Etching – Prolonged WD-40 usage can etch the glossy finish of quartz, causing a hazy appearance especially under lighting.
Staining – WD-40 residue that is not thoroughly removed can seep into microscopic pores in the quartz and cause stubborn dark stains.
** increased oil buildup** – WD-40 leaves an oily film that attracts more dirt and debris to the countertop surface.
** Voided warranties** – Quartz manufacturers may consider WD-40 usage as misuse and no longer honor the warranty.
Difficult to undo damage – Unlike natural stone, quartz cannot be honed and polished to remove etching or buildup. Damaged areas usually require full replacement.

To avoid these risks, it’s advisable to stick to cleaning products specifically designed for quartz and strictly avoid chemical-based solvents like WD-40 unless approved by the manufacturer.

Alternatives to Use Instead of WD-40

Fortunately, there are much safer and effective options for cleaning quartz countertops:

Mild soap and water – For regular cleaning, use a non-abrasive soap with warm water. Dish soap works well. Rinse thoroughly.
Baking soda scrub – For dried spills, make a paste with baking soda and water. Gently scrub and then rinse.
Hydrogen peroxide – Its effervescence helps lift stains. Rinse afterwards.
Ammonia – For grease buildup, use a diluted ammonia solution and rinse completely. Work in a ventilated space.
Vinegar – Helpful for hard water deposits. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and wipe down.
Glass cleaner – For polishing, use a non-abrasive glass/surface cleaner suitable for quartz.
Commercial quartz cleaners – Look for cleaners specifically formulated for quartz. Many provide light polishing action.

Always refer to the manufacturer’s care guide for the best cleaning recommendations. With the right gentle cleaners, quartz countertops will stay gorgeous for decades. Skip the WD-40 to avoid damage.

How to Remove WD-40 Residue from Quartz

If WD-40 was already accidentally used on your quartz counters, act quickly to remove the oily residue before permanent damage occurs:

Step 1 – Blot Excess

Blot up any pooled WD-40 immediately with absorbent towels to prevent spreading.

Step 2 – Mix Ammonia Solution

In a spray bottle, mix 1 part household ammonia to 3 parts warm water.

Step 3 – Spray and Wipe

Liberally spray the ammonia solution onto the WD-40-treated area.
Wipe down with a clean lint-free cloth, going with the grain of the countertop.
Repeat until all oiliness has been lifted.

Step 4 – Baking Soda Paste

Make a paste with baking soda and water.
Use a soft scrub brush or sponge to gently work the paste over the area.
Let sit briefly before rinsing thoroughly.

Step 5 – Rinse and Dry

Rinse several times with clean water.
Dry completely with a soft towel.

Step 6 – Inspect and Repeat

Inspect under lighting for any remaining residue.
Repeat steps as needed until the quartz is fully cleaned.

With quick action, WD-40 buildup can often be removed before it has a chance to cause permanent damage. However, if stains or etching remain, professional help may be needed. Always exercise caution and stick to manufacturer recommendations to properly care for quartz.

Long-Term Impact of WD-40 on Quartz

While WD-40 may seem like an easy shortcut for cleaning quartz, the long-term consequences are definitely not worth the risk. Some issues that may develop over time with repeated WD-40 use include:

Permanent damage to resin binders leading to etching and accelerated wear.
Dark discoloration or staining as oil seeps into microscopic pores.
Hazy film that develops from residue buildup impairing the clarity and luster.
Increased attraction of dirt and grime due to the slick oily residue left behind.
Loss of warranty coverage due to use of prohibited chemical-based cleaners.
Eventual need for full quartz replacement if damage becomes severe.

It’s simply not worth even an occasional use of WD-40 on quartz surfaces. Always adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s care recommendations to ensure the long-lasting beauty of your quartz investment.

Professional Restoration for Damaged Quartz

If quartz countertops have undergone significant damage from WD-40 or other harsh chemicals, professional help may be needed. Quartz restoration experts have specialty techniques and compounds to recondition damaged surfaces.

Some services they offer include:

Polish compound – Using professional-grade polishing powder to remove etching and restore clarity.
Deep cleaning – Using specialized cleaning agents to lift oil buildup and stains from WD-40 residue.
Sealing – Applying a protective seal to help prevent future staining.
Resurfacing – Sanding down shallow scratches and blending with surrounding areas.
Color restoration – Bleaching or dyeing procedures to even out discoloration.
Fill work – Filling chips and divots with color-matched filler.

Completely repairing severe damage like deep cracks may still require a replacement slab. But in many cases, professional quartz restoration can successfully rejuvenate the surface and extend its lifespan. Investing in these services can help restore value before needing a full replacement.

FAQ About Using WD-40 on Quartz

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about using WD-40 on quartz countertops:

Can I use WD-40 to remove hard water marks from my quartz?

No, WD-40 is not effective at removing mineral deposits left by hard water. The solvents may damage the quartz. Use diluted vinegar instead.

I spilled red wine on my quartz – will WD-40 remove the stain?

WD-40 is not formulated as a cleaner and should not be used on quartz, even for stains. Blot wine immediately and clean with baking soda paste.

Can I use WD-40 to make my quartz counters shine?

Absolutely not. WD-40 leaves an oily residue that causes buildup and dullness over time. Use a cleaner made specifically for quartz instead.

My contractor suggested using WD-40 to clean my new quartz installation. Is this ok?

No, never use WD-40 on quartz. Inform your contractor of the damage risks and insist on proper quartz-safe cleaners.

I used WD-40 on my quartz but can still see cloudy streaks. What should I do?

Retry cleansing the area with an ammonia solution. If haze remains, you may need professional restoration services. Avoid WD-40 from now on.

Is it safe to use WD-40 elsewhere in my kitchen/bathroom?

WD-40 can be used safely on non-quartz surfaces like cabinets, appliances and fixtures. But take care to avoid overspray contacting the quartz.

Can I use WD-40 to clean the grout lines near my quartz counters?

No – there is too much risk of overspray getting onto the surrounding quartz. Use a tile & grout cleaner instead.

I’m selling my home – can I use WD-40 to make my old quartz counters gleam?

Never use WD-40 on quartz. It often makes surfaces worse. Clean thoroughly with soap, water and baking soda instead.

Conclusion

Quartz offers natural beauty and durability with minimal maintenance needs. While products like WD-40 may seem tempting for cleaning stubborn grime, it’s critical to avoid the serious risks from harsh solvents reacting with the resin binders. Always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations, and stick to gentle cleaners like soap and water, hydrogen peroxide, vinegar and baking soda paste. Taking proper care will ensure quartz countertops stay looking exquisite for decades to come. With some basic do’s and don’ts, quartz can be kept gorgeous with ease.