Supplies Needed
- Microfiber cloths
- Soft Scrub or baking soda
- Dish soap
- White vinegar or glass cleaner
- Clean water
Routine Cleaning
1. Wipe down – Each day, simply wipe down the countertop with a damp microfiber cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. This quick daily wipe down prevents buildup.
2. Dish soap – For a deeper clean, use a few drops of mild dish soap diluted in warm water. Dab a soft microfiber cloth in the solution and wipe the entire counter. Rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry.
3. Baking soda – For tougher stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Gently scrub the stain in a circular motion with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse and dry the counter thoroughly.
4. White vinegar – Mix equal parts white vinegar and water for an all-purpose cleaner. Vinegar helps remove grease and disinfect.
Removing Stubborn Stains
Cooking oil – Immediately sprinkle salt on oil spills to absorb it, then wipe away the salt. For dried stains, apply baking soda and scrub gently.
Wine – Pour salt or baking soda on the stain to absorb the liquid. Scrub gently and rinse.
Coffee/tea – Rub the stain with a paste of baking soda and water using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.
Nail polish – Use a small amount of non-acetone nail polish remover on a microfiber cloth. Rub gently and wash with soap and water.
Hard water spots – Spray white vinegar and scrub with a soft cloth or natural sponge. Rinse and dry completely.
Dried-on food – Make a paste with baking soda and water and scrub gently, taking care not to scratch the surface. Rinse and dry.
Deep Cleaning
- Every few months, deep clean quartz counters to keep them spotless.
- Mix together equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the solution liberally over the entire counter and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Use a soft microfiber cloth and rub in circular motions.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a fresh cloth.
- Finish by applying a small amount of olive oil, gently rubbing it all over the counter with a cloth. The oil helps seal and protect the quartz.
Tips for Maintaining White Quartz
- Always use soft, non-abrasive cleaning cloths and sponges. Never use abrasive pads.
- Blot spills immediately to prevent stains. Don’t let liquids sit.
- Avoid harsh cleaners like bleach, ammonia, and acidic or alkaline cleaners.
- For stubborn stains, repeat cleaning attempts gently. Don’t aggressively scrub.
- Avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on the counter. Use trivets and hot pads.
- Cut only on designated cutting boards, not directly on the counter.
- Reseal quartz every 6-12 months using a stone sealer made for engineered stone.
Pros and Cons of White Quartz Countertops
Pros:
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Resists staining from spills
- Stylish white color brightens kitchens
- Non-porous so doesn’t harbor bacteria
- Heat and scorch resistant
Cons:
- Can chip if subjected to heavy impact
- Needs resealing to prevent damage
- Slightly more expensive than other countertops
- Can be damaged by very high heat
- White color shows water marks and dust
FAQs
How often should I clean white quartz counters?
Ideally, wipe quartz down daily with just water and soap weekly. Deep clean every 1-2 months minimum, or more often for heavy-use kitchens.
What should I never use to clean white quartz?
Avoid abrasive cleansers, alkaline/acidic cleaners, bleach, ammonia, vinegar, scouring pads, and anything too harsh. This can damage the surface.
Can you use vinegar to clean white quartz?
Yes, diluted white vinegar is safe for cleaning. Make a 50/50 solution of vinegar and warm water. Avoid prolong contact with concentrated vinegar.
What is the best cleaner for white quartz?
For routine cleaning, mild dish soap and water or an all-purpose cleaner like Soft Scrub do well. Baking soda also works. Use a soft sponge or cloth always.
How do I get dried food off my white quartz countertop?
Make a paste of baking soda and water. Gently scrub the area using a soft cloth or sponge in circular motions. Take care not to scratch the quartz. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
How do you remove oil stains from white quartz?
Immediately pour salt on fresh oil stains to absorb, then wipe away. For dried stains, make a baking soda paste and scrub gently. Rinse with warm soapy water and dry well. The oil should lift.
Conclusion
White quartz countertops add a clean, elegant look to any kitchen. With proper routine cleaning and careful handling, quartz countertops can stay looking pristine for many years. Be sure to use only non-abrasive cleaners and cleaning tools to avoid damaging the surface. A well-maintained white quartz counter provides beauty, durability, and easy maintenance – perfect for busy kitchens.