Cleaning Quartz Countertops
- Use a mild soap and warm water to clean quartz. Avoid abrasive cleaners and pads which can scratch the surface.
- For stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner specifically formulated for stone surfaces. Bar Keeper’s Friend and Method Daily Granite Cleaner work well.
- Clean up spills immediately to avoid stains setting in. Quartz is nonporous but some liquids like wine, coffee and juice can stain if left too long.
- Use a microfiber cloth to dry quartz after cleaning. This prevents water spots or calcium buildup.
Preventing Damage
- Always use a cutting board and avoid direct food prep on quartz. Knives can scratch and cut into the surface.
- Don’t place hot pans directly on quartz. Use trivets or pads. Extreme heat may damage the resin in the countertop.
- Quartz is highly resistant to scratches and etching from daily use. But avoid dragging heavy, rough objects across the surface which could scratch.
- Don’t use cleaners containing bleach, alkaline, or high pH on quartz. Stick to gentle cleaners made specifically for stone.
Treating Stains and Blemishes
- For dried food, gum, grease, or wax, scrape off carefully with a plastic putty knife then clean the area. Avoid metal scrapers.
- Disinfect stained areas with diluted bleach – 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Rinse thoroughly and follow up with a stone cleaner.
- Mineral deposits from water can be treated with white vinegar and rinsed off. For a thorough deep clean, use a poultice made of pH neutral soap.
- For superficial light scratches, use a polishing compound made specifically for quartz and buff gently with a soft cloth.
- Chips, cracks, and structural damage requires professional repair. Don’t try DIY fixes which may cause further damage.
Sealing and Polishing
- Quartz does not require sealing like natural stone. The resins make quartz nonporous so sealing is not effective or necessary.
- For polished quartz, use a stone polish every 1-2 months to enhance the shine and gloss. Use a soft cloth and rub gently in circular motions.
- Honed or matte quartz can be polished occasionally with a quartz polish to restore the finish. But avoid gloss-enhancing sealers which cause a buildup.
Protecting Long-Term
- Use trivets, hot pads and cutting boards religiously to prevent scratches, scorches and cuts.
- Clean up any spills immediately, especially oils, pigments and acids that can stain if left too long.
- Avoid exposing quartz to strong chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners, etc. Rinse off immediately if exposed.
- Reseal with caulk or grout annually around the edges near the sink and backsplash. This prevents moisture damage.
Following these care tips will help ensure quartz countertops stay beautiful and damage-free for 10-15 years. Quartz requires minimal maintenance compared to natural stone. With proper care and cleaning, quartz countertops will retain their luxurious polished sheen for years of enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caring for Quartz Countertops
Can you use vinegar to clean quartz countertops?
Yes, you can safely use vinegar to clean quartz countertops. Mix a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water and wipe down the counters with it. Rinse thoroughly afterwards. The mild acidity in vinegar helps remove stains, dirt and residue without damaging the quartz.
Should quartz countertops be sealed?
No, sealing is not necessary for quartz countertops. Unlike natural stone, quartz contains resins that make it nonporous so liquids don’t penetrate the surface. Sealing would not provide any extra protection.
How can you get rid of hard water marks on quartz?
Hard water deposits can be removed by cleaning with a mix of equal parts white vinegar and water. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning. For stubborn calcium deposits, use a poultice made specifically for removing mineral stains from stone.
Can you use bleach to clean quartz counters?
It’s best to avoid bleach and other harsh chemicals on quartz. For disinfecting, a mild bleach solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water can be used sparingly. Always rinse thoroughly to avoid damaging the resin binders.
What happens if quartz countertops get too hot?
Excessive or prolonged heat can damage the resin binders in quartz causing discoloration or cracking. Always use trivets and hot pads when placing hot pans on quartz. Sudden temperature changes can also create stress fractures.
How can you remove dried food from a quartz countertop?
Gently scrape off any dried food deposits with a plastic putty knife taking care not to scratch the surface. Avoid using metal scrapers or abrasive pads. Clean the area afterwards with a stone-safe cleaner and microfiber cloth.
Can you cut directly on quartz countertops?
It’s best to avoid cutting directly on quartz to prevent scratches and cuts in the surface. Always use a cutting board for food prep. The resins make quartz very hard so knives will damage rather than the quartz itself.
How often should quartz counters be polished?
For polished quartz, use a stone polish every 1-2 months to keep the surface looking shiny and new. Matte quartz can be polished every 3-4 months taking care not to make the surface too glossy. Avoid acid-based cleaners which can dull the polish.
Conclusion
Caring for quartz countertops does not require much effort with proper daily and weekly cleaning habits. The key steps are using only non-abrasive cleaners formulated for stone, avoiding excessive heat, and preventing scratches and stains. With minimal maintenance, quartz countertops can stay looking pristine and beautiful for over a decade enhancing any kitchen or bathroom.