Getting your quartz countertop to have that beautiful, glossy sheen can really elevate the look of your kitchen. With proper care and maintenance, you can keep your quartz counters looking like new. Here are some tips on how to get your quartz countertop to shine.

Clean Regularly

Regular cleaning is key to maintaining the sheen on quartz. Quartz is resistant to scratches and stains, but it still needs to be cleaned frequently to prevent buildup.

Clean counters at least once a day with a soft cloth or sponge and mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
For stubborn spots, use a non-abrasive cleaner designed for stone surfaces. Look for ones that contain citric acid.
Always rinse thoroughly after cleaning. Any residual cleaner left on the surface can cause it to look dull.
Dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.

Proper daily cleaning will keep your quartz looking shiny and new.

Polish Monthly

In addition to regular cleaning, polishing your counters monthly will keep the shine bright.

Use a stone polish made specifically for engineered stone. Apply a small amount to a soft cloth.
Rub the polish in a circular motion over the entire counter.
Focus on high-traffic areas that may look duller. The polish will remove any film buildup.
Buff to a shine with a clean, dry cloth.

Polishing monthly removes any lingering dullness or residue missed by daily cleaning. It revitalizes the glossy sheen.

Avoid Damaging Cleaners

Just as important as using the right cleaners is avoiding the wrong ones. Harsh chemicals can damage and dull the quartz.

Never use abrasive cleaners or products containing acids, alkalis, or bleach. This includes glass cleaner and tub & tile cleaners.
Don’t use vinegar, lemon juice, or any other acids. Though they have natural cleaning properties, acids will etch and corrode quartz.
Avoid scrubbing pads, steel wool, or abrasive sponges. They can scratch the surface.

Using damaging cleaners can ruin quartz’s protective seal and moisture resistance. Check product labels and only use ones specially formulated for engineered stone.

Reseal Annually

Resealing your counters once a year will protect the polish and sheen. Quartz is nonporous, so sealing isn’t mandatory, but it adds an extra layer of protection.

Clean the surface thoroughly before sealing so the sealant adheres properly.
Apply a stone sealer suited for quartz using a clean cloth. Use thin, even coats and allow drying between coats.
Buff off any excess sealer with a dry cloth so it doesn’t leave residue.
Let the sealer cure fully before using the counters, usually 24-48 hours.

Annual sealing maintains the counters’ resistance to stains and etching. This allows the glossy finish to shine.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Exposure to direct sunlight can cause quartz countertops to appear dull over time. The UV rays break down the resin that gives quartz its polished look.

Draw blinds or curtains on sunny days to minimize light exposure.
If possible, avoid installing quartz on counters directly in front of windows. The most intense sunlight will hit these areas.
Turn countertop items like fruit bowls frequently so the same spot isn’t constantly in sunlight.

Taking steps to limit sunlight helps retain the glossy sheen and prevents uneven dulling in areas that get the most sun exposure.

Perform Deep Cleaning

For counters that have lost their luster, a deep cleaning may be needed to restore the quartz sheen.

Mix a pH-neutral cleaner with warm water based on label directions. Avoid acidic cleaners.
Apply the cleaning solution and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This gives it time to break down buildup.
Scrub using a soft cloth, sponge or nylon brush. Avoid abrasive scrubbers.
Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean cloth.
Finish by polishing with a quartz polish and buffing.

Deep cleaning clears away residue and film that regular maintenance may have missed. Your counters will look like new again after a thorough deep clean.

Call a Professional

If your attempts to restore the quartz sheen have failed, consider calling in a professional. Companies experienced in stone restoration have commercial-grade polishes and tools to rejuvenate dull quartz.

Look for companies accredited by the National Stone Restoration Alliance.
Ask about their experience working specifically with engineered stone like quartz.
Be sure they use non-acidic cleaners and polishes designed for quartz.

Professionals have the expertise to give your counters a like-new shine. This may be needed if your DIY efforts don’t succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my quartz countertop?

You should clean quartz counters at least once daily using a mild soap, water, and soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads. Proper daily cleaning prevents buildup that can dull the surface.

What’s the best way to polish a quartz countertop?

Use a polishing product specifically formulated for engineered stone. Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and rub in circular motions. Buff to a shine with a clean, dry cloth. Be sure to polish the entire surface, focusing on high-traffic areas.

Can I use vinegar to clean quartz counters?

No, you should never use vinegar, lemon juice, or any acidic cleaners on quartz. Acids can damage and etch the surface. Only use pH-neutral cleaners designed for stone surfaces.

How can I restore the shine to dull quartz?

Try a deep clean using a pH-neutral cleaner and soft scrub brush. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Follow up by polishing the entire surface. If that fails, consider hiring a professional stone restoration company to re-polish the quartz.

Does quartz need to be resealed?

Though not mandatory, resealing quartz about once a year helps maintain its shine and protection. Use a stone sealer made for engineered quartz. Clean thoroughly before applying a thin, even coat with a cloth.

Why does my quartz countertop look dull in some spots?

Sun exposure and high-traffic areas tend to look duller over time. Try moving items like fruit bowls around and limit sunlight exposure. Target these spots when cleaning and polishing. A deep clean may be needed to remove built-up residue.

Conclusion

With the proper care and maintenance, quartz countertops can retain their glossy sheen for years. Daily and monthly cleaning, avoiding damaging cleaners, sealing, and minimizing sunlight are key to keeping your counters looking polished. Put effort into routine care rather than heavy-duty restoration. Your quartz will maintain its shine with regular cleaning and polishing. Call a professional if your DIY efforts are ineffective. With some elbow grease and these tips, you can get your quartz countertop to gleam.

How to Get Your Quartz Countertop to Sheen