What You Need
- White distilled vinegar
- Microfiber cloths
- Soft scrub brush
- Bowl of warm water
Mix the Vinegar Cleaning Solution
- Pour undiluted white distilled vinegar into a spray bottle. Do not dilute it.
- The acidic nature of the vinegar will help dissolve dirt and stains.
Clean the Entire Surface
- Spray vinegar directly onto the quartz countertop surface.
- Use a soft scrub brush and warm water to gently scrub the entire countertop.
- Scrub in circular motions to lift dirt from the pores of the quartz.
- Dip the scrub brush in the bowl of warm water frequently.
- Scrub all areas thoroughly – don’t forget the backsplash.
Focus on Stubborn Stains
- Look for any stubborn stains or dried spills.
- Spray vinegar directly onto those spots.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes so the vinegar can dissolve the stain.
- Scrub those areas gently with the soft scrub brush.
Rinse and Dry
- Wipe the entire quartz surface with a clean microfiber cloth and warm water to remove any vinegar residue.
- Buff dry with a dry microfiber cloth.
- Ensure no moisture is left behind to prevent water spots.
How Often to Clean with Vinegar
- Clean quartz countertops with undiluted vinegar weekly.
- For heavy-use areas, clean with vinegar 2-3 times per week.
- Vinegar’s acidity helps maintain the shine and prevent buildup.
Tips for Best Results
- Use only white distilled vinegar. Apple cider or other types may stain.
- Never use vinegar with ammonia-based cleaners. This creates toxic fumes.
- Avoid abrasive pads that can scratch. Use a soft scrub brush.
- For dried spills, let vinegar sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing.
- Mix a tbsp baking soda with water for occasional deep cleaning.
Cleaning quartz counters with vinegar and water is an affordable way to care for this low-maintenance surface. The mild acid in vinegar dissolves stains without damaging the durable quartz. Follow these steps regularly to restore shine and prevent permanent damage. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and buff dry to prevent any acidic residue from building up. With some simple cleaning know-how, your white quartz countertops will stay gorgeous for years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Quartz Countertops with Vinegar
Can I use regular white vinegar from the grocery store?
Yes, regular distilled white vinegar from the grocery store works great for cleaning quartz counters. Stay away from darker vinegars like apple cider that could stain.
Does vinegar damage quartz?
No, vinegar does not damage quartz countertops. The mild acetic acid in vinegar is strong enough to clean but gentler than many harsher cleaners. Avoid abrasive pads that could scratch.
How long should I let vinegar sit on the quartz?
Let undiluted vinegar sit on stubborn stains for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing to give the acid time to dissolve the gunk. For general cleaning, scrub immediately after spraying.
Can I mix vinegar with other cleaners?
Never mix vinegar with bleach or ammonia cleaners. This creates toxic chlorine and chloramine gases. It’s safest to use vinegar on its own.
How do I get rid of vinegar smell?
The vinegar smell disappears as soon as the quartz dries. Give a final wipe down with water and dry thoroughly with a cloth to eliminate odors. An occasional rinse with baking soda also helps.
What ratio of vinegar to water should I use?
Cleaning pros recommend using undiluted white vinegar right from the bottle. Diluting reduces vinegar’s cleaning power on stubborn quartz stains.
Does vinegar leave a film on quartz?
It shouldn’t. Always wipe down thoroughly with water after cleaning to remove any vinegar residue. Buff dry with a cloth for a streak-free shine.
Can I put vinegar in a quartz countertop’s crevices?
Yes, spraying vinegar directly into crevices, corners, and along edges helps dissolve built-up grime. Scrub carefully with a brush and rinse thoroughly.
Should vinegar touch other surfaces like hardware?
Avoid getting vinegar on metal fixtures. Rinse any overspray immediately. The acid in vinegar could damage some materials over time with repeated direct contact.
Conclusion
Regularly cleaning quartz countertops with undiluted white vinegar is a smart way to care for this durable surface. The mild acid in vinegar dissolves grime, leaves a streak-free shine, and prevents dull buildup over time. Be sure to scrub the entire surface thoroughly, let vinegar sit on tough stains, and always rinse completely after cleaning. Follow these simple steps and your beautiful white quartz counters will maintain their gleaming look for many years.