Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance. However, while quartz requires less maintenance than many other countertop materials, it still needs proper care and cleaning to keep it looking like new. Follow this guide to learn how to maintain quartz countertops and keep them in pristine condition for years to come.

Cleaning Quartz Countertops

Regular cleaning is the key to maintaining beautiful quartz countertops. Here are some best practices for keeping quartz sparkling:

Daily Cleaning

Wipe down quartz with a soft, damp microfiber cloth to remove light dust and grime after each use.
For food prep areas, use a gentle soap and warm water. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. Residual soaps can leave streaks.

Weekly Cleaning

Once a week, clean quartz with a quartz-safe granite cleaner and microfiber cloth.
Quartz cleaners contain mild detergents to break down oil and grime.
Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.

Preventing Stains

Blot up spills immediately before they have a chance to soak in and cause stains.
For oily spills like olive oil, remove the excess and clean with a degreasing dish soap.
For very stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner designed for quartz.

Avoiding Damage

Never use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or powders that can scratch the surface.
Don’t expose quartz to strong chemicals like paint removers, drain cleaners, etc.
Use trivets and hot pads to protect from excess heat.

Maintaining the Seal

Quartz countertops are non-porous, so liquids don’t penetrate the material. However, proper sealing creates an added barrier against stains:

Quartz can be sealed using a penetrating quartz sealer every 1-2 years.
Clean the quartz thoroughly before applying the sealer.
Apply sealer carefully according to product directions. Remove any excess.
Allow sealer to cure fully before using the countertops, usually 24-48 hours.

Preventing Chips and Cracks

Though quartz is very durable, the resin binders that form the material can chip or crack if subjected to sharp, concentrated impacts. Follow these tips to keep quartz damage-free:

Always use a cutting board for food prep. Never cut directly on the counter.
Don’t drop heavy objects on the quartz.
Avoid excessive force when placing heavy platters or appliances.
Use placemats under dishes to prevent scratches from sliding.
If you notice any chips or cracks forming, contact a professional for repair to prevent further damage.

Heat Protection

While quartz is heat-resistant, sudden temperature changes can damage the solid surface:

Always use trivets or hot pads when placing hot pots, pans, bakeware, etc on the counters.
Don’t expose quartz to open flames.
Allow plenty of time for hot objects to cool before touching the quartz surface.
Avoid exposing quartz to extreme temperature swings.
Use potholders to remove items from hot ovens. Do not slide pans directly onto quartz.

Sun Exposure

Sunlight and UV rays will not damage or fade quartz, but excessive heat from sun exposure can cause thermal shock:

Provide adequate airflow behind quartz backsplashes exposed to sunlight through windows.
Consider window treatments to block intense afternoon sun on countertops.
Never allow magnifying glasses, crystals, or other objects to concentrate direct sunlight on the surface.

Repairing Damage

Minor chips, scratches, and stains in quartz can often be repaired:

Small chips and cracks can be filled with a color-matched quartz repair kit.
Light scratches can be buffed out by a professional stone restoration company.
Stains caused by spills can usually be removed with a poultice soaking followed by cleaning.

For heavy damage or extensive staining, full replacement may be required. Contact a quartz fabricator/installer for advice.

Maintaining Appearance

Aside from cleaning and damage prevention, a few steps will keep your quartz counters looking their best:

Prevent Discoloration

Avoid exposing quartz to hair dyes, bleaches, peroxides, nail polish removers, etc.
Don’t leave vinegar, lemon juice, wine, and other pigmented liquids sitting on the surface.

Smooth Finish

Keep polish intact by avoiding abrasive pads during cleaning.
Have a professional refresh the polished finish every 3-5 years.

Shine

Regular proper cleaning keeps quartz looking vibrant.
An occasional buffing with a quartz polish will enhance the luster.

Regular Inspection

Make it a habit to inspect your quartz counters during routine cleaning:

Look for any cracks, chips, or scratches that may need repair.
Check for signs of staining or etching requiring attention.
Ensure seals near sinks and backsplashes remain intact to prevent moisture damage.
Note any concerns right away before they worsen.

Quartz Countertop Maintenance Guide

For easy reference, print this handy quartz countertop maintenance guide:

Daily

Wipe down with soft damp cloth
Clean food-prep areas with mild soap and water
Rinse and dry thoroughly

Weekly

Clean with quartz-safe cleaner
Rinse and dry completely

Preventative Care

Immediately blot spills to avoid stains
Use trivets for hot items
Don’t cut or place heavy items directly on quartz
Reseal every 1-2 years

Avoid

Abrasive cleaners and scrub pads
Excessive heat or sudden temperature changes
Exposure to chemicals
Leaving spills unattended
Cracks or chips

FAQs About Caring for Quartz Countertops

How often should you seal quartz counters?

Quartz countertops should be sealed every 1-2 years using a penetrating quartz sealer to enhance stain protection. Be sure to clean thoroughly and follow application directions carefully.

Does quartz need to be re-polished?

While quartz does not require re-polishing as often as natural stone, periodic professional polishing every 3-5 years can help maintain the smooth factory finish.

What’s the best way to clean quartz?

For routine cleaning, wipe down quartz with a soft damp cloth and a small amount of mild soap and water. For weekly maintenance, use a granite cleaner made specifically for quartz.

How do you get dried food off of quartz?

If food dries on your quartz, soak the area with warm water to soften, then gently scrape off the food using a plastic spatula or nylon scrub pad. Avoid abrasive scrubbers.

Can you use bleach to clean quartz?

No, avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals on quartz countertops. The chemicals can damage the solid surface and cause discoloration. Use a specially formulated quartz cleaner instead.

How do you remove oil stains from quartz?

For oily stains, blot up any excess oil, then clean the area with a degreasing dish soap and warm water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. Repeat if needed. Avoid harsh detergents.

How can you get rid of hard water marks on quartz?

Hard water stains and etching on quartz can often be removed by applying a poultice designed for quartz. Soak the area according to directions, then rinse. Resealing may also help reduce hard water etching over time.

What happens if quartz gets too hot?

Exposing quartz countertops to extreme heat can cause thermal shock, resulting in cracks and damage. Always use trivets and avoid sudden temperature changes. Do not expose quartz to open flames.

Conclusion

With its sturdy composition and nonporous qualities, quartz requires very little maintenance compared to many natural stone surfaces. By following the cleaning, care, and preventative steps outlined here, you can easily keep quartz counters looking freshly installed for years before needing professional restoration services. Be sure to wipe spills quickly, avoid abrasives, use trivets for hot items, and reseal every 1-2 years. With regular light cleaning and daily care, quartz will maintain its beauty and durability for the lifetime of your home.

How Do You Maintain Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. Compared to natural stone, quartz is non-porous, making it resistant to stains, scratches, and chips. However, quartz still requires some regular maintenance to keep it looking pristine and brand-new. Follow this guide to learn the basics of caring for quartz countertops.

Daily Cleaning

Wipe down quartz counters daily with a soft cloth or sponge using warm water and a small amount of mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrub pads.
For food prep areas, clean up spills and crumbs promptly to avoid stains setting in.
Thoroughly rinse off any soapy residue and dry the surface to prevent streaks or water marks.
Inspect for any soil or spills that may need extra attention.

Weekly Cleaning

Clean quartz counters once a week with a granite or quartz-specific cleaner.
Spray the cleaner directly onto the countertop and use a soft cloth to distribute over the surface in a circular motion.
Let the cleaner sit for 5-10 minutes so it can break down oils and grime before wiping clean.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry completely with a soft cloth.

Treating Stains and Spills

Immediately blot any spills on quartz with an absorbent cloth. Don’t wipe the area, which can spread the spill.
For oily stains, use a degreasing dish detergent to help break up the oil, then rinse thoroughly.
For stubborn stains, check the quartz manufacturer’s recommendations and test any cleaner on a small inconspicuous area first before applying to the whole surface.
Avoid using acidic cleaners like vinegar, lemon juice, etc. which can etch quartz.

Preventing Heat Damage

Always use trivets or hot pads when setting hot pans, serving dishes, etc. on quartz.
Don’t place hot items directly from the oven or stove onto the quartz surface. Allow cookware to cool first.
Never expose quartz counters to open flames such as candles or burners.
Avoid exposing quartz to sudden, rapid temperature changes which can cause thermal shock.

Resealing Quartz

Quartz can be resealed every 1-2 years using a penetrating sealer specifically designed for quartz. This adds extra protection against stains.
Thoroughly clean the counters first before applying the sealer evenly according to product instructions.
Remove any excess sealer immediately with a clean cloth. Allow to dry completely before using the counters.

Avoiding Damage

Use cutting boards for food prep. Never cut directly on the quartz surface.
Place delicate items on towels instead of directly on quartz to prevent scratches.
Lift heavy objects when moving them across quartz rather than dragging.
Avoid bumping or dropping heavy pots, pans, and appliances on counters.
Dry quartz counters near a sink with a towel after use to prevent moisture damage.

With proper care, quartz countertops can stay looking new for many years before needing professional restoration. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to safely clean and maintain your specific type of quartz.

Frequently Asked Questions About Caring for Quartz Countertops

How often should quartz counters be sealed?

Quartz counters should be sealed every 1-2 years using a penetrating sealer made for quartz. Be sure to clean thoroughly before sealing and carefully follow the product instructions.

What’s the best way to remove dried food from quartz?

Let hot water soak on dried food for 5-10 minutes to loosen it, then gently scrape it away with a plastic spatula. Avoid using metal utensils or abrasive pads.

Can you use vinegar to clean quartz?

No, avoid vinegar or other acidic cleaners. The acid can etch or dull the surface over time. Use a ph-neutral quartz cleaner instead.

How do you remove oily stains from quartz?

Use a degreasing dish detergent and warm water to break down oily stains. Thoroughly rinse and dry the area afterwards. Repeat if needed for stubborn oil.

What should you avoid putting on quartz counters?

Avoid direct heat, hot pans, open flames, abrasive pads, acidic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and knife cutting. Always use trivets and cutting boards.

How do you get hard water stains off of quartz?

Hard water stains can often be removed with a poultice tailored for quartz. Soak the area according to directions then rinse thoroughly. Resealing may also help.

Can you use bleach to clean quartz counters?

No, avoid bleaches, toilet bowl cleaners, oils, paint removers and other harsh chemicals. They can discolor and damage the quartz surface.

What happens if quartz cracks or chips?

Minor chips and cracks can often be repaired. Contact a professional fabricator to repair more extensive damage. Cracks left unrepaired can spread over time.

How often should quartz be polished?

Professional polishing is generally only needed every 3-5 years to refresh the surface shine. Frequent cleaning with a soft cloth helps maintain the polished look.

How Do You Maintain Quartz Countertops

Quartz has become a go-to material for countertops due to its durability, aesthetics, and easy maintenance compared to natural stone. However, quartz still requires proper care and cleaning to prevent damage and keep it looking pristine. Follow this guide to learn how to maintain your quartz counters.

Routine Cleaning

Clean quartz daily using a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and mild soap. Avoid abrasive scrub pads.
Rinse off all soap with clean water and dry thoroughly to prevent streaks.
For food prep areas, clean up spills and soils promptly. Don’t let stains set.
Use a quartz-safe cleaner weekly for a deeper clean. Rinse and dry completely afterwards.
Inspect counters during cleaning for any spots needing extra attention.

Treating Spills and Stains

Immediately blot liquids with a paper towel to prevent absorption. Don’t wipe.
For oily spills, use a degreasing dish detergent to help break up the oil, then rinse.
For stubborn stains, check manufacturer recommendations and test any cleaner on a small inconspicuous spot first.
Avoid vinegar, lemon juice, wine, and other acidic products that can etch quartz.

Preventing Heat Damage

Always use trivets or mats when placing hot objects on quartz counters.
Don’t put boiling water, hot pans, etc directly from stove/oven onto surface. Allow to cool first.
Avoid exposing counters to open flames from candles, burners, etc.
Prevent thermal shock by not subjecting quartz to sudden temperature swings.

Maintaining Seal

Reseal quartz every 1-2 years with a penetrating quartz-specific sealer for added stain protection.
Thoroughly clean counters first before applying sealer evenly according to directions.
Wipe any excess sealer off right away with a clean cloth. Allow proper drying time before use.

Preventing Cracks and Chips

Always use cutting boards for food prep. Never cut directly on quartz.
Place delicate glassware on towels instead of directly on surface.
Avoid heavy impacts that can chip the edges. Don’t drop heavy objects.
Take care not to scrape quartz with metal cookware.

Sun Exposure

Provide air circulation behind counters with sun exposure to prevent excessive heat buildup.
Use window treatments to block intense afternoon sun hitting counters.
Don’t allow focused sunlight from magnifying glasses, crystals, etc. which can damage surface.

Conclusion

With regular light cleaning, prompt spill removal, proper heat protection, and periodic resealing, quartz countertops will retain their sleek, polished factory finish for many years. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads, hot pans directly on surface, and exposing quartz to chemicals or UV damage. Following these simple maintenance steps will maintain the durability, beauty and convenience of quartz counters.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you seal quartz counters?

Sealing quartz every 1-2 years helps prolong stain resistance. Be sure to clean thoroughly first and follow sealer directions carefully.

What’s the best way to clean dried food from a quartz counter?

Soak dried food in warm water for 5-10 minutes to loosen, then gently scrape off with a plastic spatula. Avoid using metal utensils.

Can vinegar damage a quartz countertop?

Yes, vinegar and other acidic cleaners can etch and dull quartz over time. Use a specially formulated quartz cleaner instead.

How do you remove oily stains from quartz?

Use a degreasing