Introduction
Quartz countertops, like those made by Caesarstone, have become extremely popular in kitchens and bathrooms thanks to their durability, aesthetics, and easy maintenance. However, there are still best practices to follow to keep your quartz countertops looking like new for years to come. Here we will go over the most frequently asked questions about caring for quartz countertops and provide helpful tips.
What are quartz countertops?
Quartz countertops are made from crushed quartz blended with polymer resins and pigments. The mixture is molded into slabs and hardened under extreme heat and pressure. The resulting material is non-porous, stain-resistant, and heat-resistant—ideal properties for kitchen countertops. Brands like Caesarstone have popularized quartz for high-end homes.
How to Clean Quartz Countertops
For everyday cleaning:
- Use a soft, damp microfiber cloth to wipe the surface. This removes dust, grease, and minor stains.
- For stuck-on dirt or stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner formulated for stone surfaces. Spray it onto a cloth first rather than directly on the counter.
- Avoid harsh cleaners like bleach, ammonia, vinegar, etc. They can damage or discolor the surface over time.
For deep cleaning:
- Once a week, clean the counters with a stone-safe cleaner using a soft bristle brush. This helps scrub away grime that accumulates over time.
- Rinse well and dry with a clean towel.
- For stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive baking soda paste. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes and rinse thoroughly.
What NOT to use:
- No abrasive pads or powders—they scratch the surface.
- No acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon juice—they etch and dull the finish.
- No harsh alkaline cleaners like bleach or ammonia—they degrade sealants.
- No leaving spills or moisture sitting—they can stain.
How to Prevent Damage
- Always use cutting boards and trivets. Never cut directly on the counter or place hot pots/pans on it.
- Don’t let spills sit. Clean up messes right away to prevent staining.
- Avoid dropping heavy objects on the surface which can chip it.
- Check bottles and cans before setting them down—even condensation can stain.
- Don’t use quartz counters as workbenches. The pressure from tools can damage the surface.
How to Remove Stains from Quartz
- For dried food, grease, or soap scum stains, use a baking soda/water paste. Apply and let sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
- For stubborn stains, try a poultice made of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and stone-safe dish soap. Apply paste and cover with plastic wrap overnight before rinsing.
- For ink, marker, or paint, try denatured alcohol on a cloth. Test on a small area first.
- For hard water deposits, use a half-and-half vinegar and water solution. Rinse thoroughly.
- If stains persist, contact a professional stone restoration company. Harsh DIY chemicals can damage the counters.
How to Seal Quartz Countertops
- Quartz does not require sealing like natural stone. The resin binders make quartz non-porous.
- If you notice dark spots forming, try a stone sealer made for quartz. Clean the surface thoroughly first.
- Apply a thin layer of sealer with a clean cloth. Allow to dry completely. Repeat annually or as needed.
- Look for sealers that are non-toxic, non-yellowing, and safe for food contact surfaces.
How to Repair Damage on Quartz
- For light scratches, use a polishing compound made for quartz. Rub it into the scratch gently with a cloth.
- For chips or cracks, call a professional installer. They can fill minor damage with color-matched resin.
- For burns or discoloration, try sanding down the damaged layer. Start with 220 grit sandpaper and move up to 500 grit.
- For more significant damage, quartz may need replacement. This should be done by a professional to ensure proper installation.
- Avoid DIY quartz repair kits—they often don’t match the surface finish or durability.
How to Clean Other Quartz Surfaces
For quartz sinks:
- Use a gentle soap and soft sponge for daily cleaning. Avoid abrasive powders.
- For hard water marks, use a half-and-half vinegar and water solution.
- Disinfect regularly with a non-bleach, non-acidic disinfectant.
For quartz showers:
- Use a squeegee after each use to prevent hard water and soap buildup.
- Clean weekly with a non-abrasive cleaner made for stone showers.
- Avoid using bleach, acid, or alkaline cleaners which can degrade the surface.
Conclusion
With proper everyday care and regular cleaning, quartz countertops should retain their beauty and durability for many years. Always use non-abrasive cleaners and immediately clean up spills or stains. For stubborn issues, use specially formulated quartz cleaning products. Avoid DIY repairs and call professionals when needed. Following these tips will keep your Caesarstone or other quartz counters looking like new.