Silestone quartz countertops are popular choices for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, stylish appearance, and low maintenance. However, even this hardy material requires regular cleaning to keep it looking its best. Follow these simple steps to clean and care for your Silestone quartz countertops.
Supplies Needed
- Mild dish soap or stone cleaner
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Clean water
Routine Cleaning
For daily or weekly cleaning, a mild soap and water solution is all you need to keep Silestone sparkling.
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap like Dawn with warm water in a spray bottle. Avoid using harsh cleaners or anything abrasive.
- Spray the mixture directly onto the countertop and use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft towel.
- For stubborn spots or dried spills, let the soap solution sit for a few minutes before scrubbing gently. Avoid aggressive scrubbing.
- Be sure to also clean the backsplash and any seams or corners where grime can collect.
Vinegar is another inexpensive, effective option for routine cleaning. The mild acid helps dissolve grime.
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle.
- Spritz directly onto the surface and wipe clean with a soft cloth.
- Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
Deep Cleaning Silestone Quartz
For a periodic deep clean, consider using a store-bought stone cleaner:
- Look for a cleaner specifically formulated for quartz. Avoid anything too harsh.
- Apply the cleaner directly to the countertop. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Use a soft scrubbing pad or cloth to gently scrub the entire surface.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all cleaner residue.
- Dry with a clean towel.
Baking soda also works great for an occasional deep cleaning:
- Make a paste by mixing baking soda with just enough water to form a thick paste.
- Rub the paste over the surface using a soft cloth or sponge.
- Let it set for several minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
- Dry the countertop well with a soft towel.
Preventing Damage
Avoid exposing your Silestone quartz countertops to harsh chemicals or cleaners, as they can etch or discolor the surface.
- Don’t use bleach, ammonia, oven cleaners, or acidic cleaners like lime/scale removers.
- Vinegar is fine for cleaning but don’t let it sit too long.
- Avoid getting nail polish remover, paint strippers, or solvents on the surface.
- Immediately wipe up any spills of wine, coffee, juice, etc.
- Use trivets or mats under hot pots and pans.
Be gentle when cleaning to prevent scratching or dulling the finish.
- Don’t use abrasive scouring pads, steel wool, or abrasive cleaners.
- Apply minimal pressure when scrubbing. Let the cleaning agents do the work.
- Blot spills rather than vigorous scrubbing.
With proper care and routine cleaning, your Silestone quartz countertops will stay looking like new for years to come. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives, and clean spills quickly to maintain their beauty and durability.
FAQs About Cleaning Silestone Quartz
How do you remove dried or stuck-on food from Silestone?
Pour some warm water directly onto the dried spill and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to soften the food. Then use a plastic scraper or scrub pad to gently loosen the food and wipe it away. Avoid using metal scrapers or abrasive pads.
What is the best way to sanitize Silestone quartz?
Mix together a solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol with 30% water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto the surface and wipe down thoroughly with a soft cloth. This will sanitize without being too harsh.
Can you use Magic Erasers on quartz countertops?
Magic Erasers are fine to use occasionally for stubborn marks but avoid frequent use. The abrasive pads can potentially dull the finish over time with excessive scrubbing. Be gentle and use minimal pressure.
How do you get water spots off Silestone quartz?
Dampen a soft cloth with white vinegar and lay it over the water spots for 20-30 minutes. This should help dissolve the minerals causing the spots. Wipe with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly. Avoid aggressive scrubbing.
What removes sticky residue from Silestone?
Rub a small amount of vegetable, olive, or coconut oil over the sticky spot with a soft cloth. Let it sit briefly to dissolve the gunk, then wipe it away. Clean as normal. Avoid harsh citrus or chemical cleaners.
How do you clean quartz countertops naturally?
Mix together a non-abrasive paste of baking soda and water and gently rub over the surface with a damp cloth. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft towel for a natural clean. Vinegar and water also works well.
Conclusion
Silestone quartz is a low-maintenance surface that simply requires gentle cleaning with mild soap and water to maintain its beauty. For periodic deep cleaning, use a specialized stone cleaner and avoid anything too abrasive or harsh. With regular care and prompt cleaning of spills, your quartz countertops will stay gorgeous for years. Handle them gently and avoid exposing them to extreme heat or chemicals.