Black quartz countertops can add a beautiful, stylish look to any kitchen or bathroom. However, like all countertop materials, quartz requires proper care and maintenance to keep it looking pristine. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to keep black quartz countertops clean.

Introduction

Black quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces made from resin and natural quartz crystals. They are an excellent choice for home renovations because they are non-porous, making them resistant to stains and scratches. However, like all surfaces, quartz still requires routine cleaning to prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and bacteria. Keeping black quartz sparkling requires using the proper cleaning techniques and products. With the right maintenance routine, black quartz countertops can stay looking brand new for years to come.

Routine Cleaning and Maintenance

• Clean spills promptly. Immediately wipe up spills on black quartz, especially oils, wine, coffee, and acidic juices. The quicker you clean spills, the less likely they are to stain.
• Use a mild soap and warm water. For day-to-day cleaning, use a small amount of mild liquid soap diluted in warm water. Dish soap or hand soap work well. Avoid harsh cleaners.
• Use a soft cloth or sponge. Always use a nonabrasive sponge or soft cloth when cleaning quartz. Avoid using rough sponges or paper towels that can scratch the surface.
• Rinse thoroughly after cleaning. Make sure to rinse off all soap residue and wipe the countertop completely after cleaning. Remaining residue can attract dirt and dull the surface.
• Blot dry with a towel. Don’t use an abrasive scrubbing motion. Gently blot the surface dry using a soft towel. This prevents water spots.
• Clean the entire surface. When cleaning, don’t just spot clean. Clean the entire countertop surface to prevent buildup in neglected areas.

Preventing Damages

• Use cutting boards. Never cut directly on the quartz surface. Always use a cutting board to protect the countertop from knife scratches.
• Use trivets and hot pads. Place trivets or hot pads under cooking pots, bakeware, appliances, etc. to prevent heat damage.
• Don’t stand or sit on the countertop. Avoid putting excess weight on the countertop to prevent cracking.
• Clean up spills immediately. Don’t let spills sit. Chemicals like wine, coffee, juice, and oil can stain if left for prolonged time.
• Wipe up excess water. Don’t allow water to pool on the surface. Always wipe up excess moisture to prevent water spots.

Deep Cleaning Tips

• Clean with a lime/scale remover – For hard water stains, use a lime/scale removing cleaner formulated for natural stone.
• Make a baking soda paste – For tough stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Let it sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
• Use hydrogen peroxide – For stubborn stains, apply hydrogen peroxide and let bubble for 10-15 minutes before wiping and rinsing thoroughly.
• Clean with diluted bleach – For disinfecting and removing residue buildup, use 1 part bleach diluted with 9 parts water. Rinse surface thoroughly after cleaning.
• Use a polishing product – Regularly polish your quartz with a product made specifically for engineered stone to keep the surface shiny and prevent etching.

How to Remove Common Stains

Oils: Use a degreasing cleaner and rinse thoroughly with warm water. For tough oil stains, spray with a granite cleaner and let sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Wine: Saturate a cloth with hydrogen peroxide and blot the stain. Let sit 15-20 minutes, reapplying peroxide as needed. Rinse thoroughly. For dried stains, use a baking soda paste.

Coffee/Tea: Mix together liquid dish soap and warm water. Use a soft cloth to blot the stain gently. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. For dried stains, apply a lime/scale remover.

Juice & Sofr Drinks: Spray the stain with a stone-safe cleaner. Let sit for 3-5 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing thoroughly. For tough stains, make a baking soda paste.

Dried Spills/Residue: Make a paste with baking soda and water and gently scrub the area using a soft cloth or sponge in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.

Hard Water Marks: Use a lime/scale removing cleaner formulated for natural stone and rinse well with water. For severe marks, use a baking soda paste.

Soap Scum: Make a paste with baking soda and water and scrub into the soap scum. Alternatively, spray a stone cleaner and let sit before rinsing thoroughly.

Maintaining Black Quartz’s Shine

• Use quartz-specific polishing products regularly to maintain the glossy shine. Avoid wax-based polishes made for other surfaces.
• When cleaning, use circular motions to help preserve the polished appearance. Never use abrasive cleaners or scrub aggressively.
• For periodic deep cleaning, use a PH-neutral stone cleaner formulated to remove residue buildup and restore shine.
• Consider having the countertop professionally re-polished every 3-5 years depending on use. Professionals have specialized tools to refresh the finish.

When to Call a Professional

While routine cleaning of quartz is often simple, some stains and damages may require calling in a professional for repair:

• Deep scratches, chips, or cracks in the surface.
• Severe burning or heat marks.
• Tough stains that won’t come out with DIY methods.
• Water damage or broken seams near sinks/faucets.
• Overall dullness or etching that polishing/cleaning doesn’t improve.
• Discoloration or odd staining across large portions of the surface.

Conclusion

Black quartz countertops add sleek sophistication to any space, but require regular cleaning and care to maintain their beauty. By using the proper techniques and products, these low-maintenance surfaces can continue looking like-new for many years. Be sure to clean spills promptly, use gentle cleaners and motions, and follow preventative steps to avoid stains and damage. With the proper routine, black quartz countertops will shine as the gorgeous centerpiece of your kitchen or bath.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to clean black quartz every day?

The best way to clean black quartz daily is to use a small amount of mild soap diluted in warm water. Dish soap or hand soap work well. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe the surface. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads. Rinse thoroughly and blot dry with a towel.

Can you use vinegar to clean quartz?

Vinegar is too acidic for quartz and can dull the surface over time. For routine cleaning, stick to a mild soap and water. For hard water stains, use a cleaner specifically formulated to remove lime/scale from natural stone.

What should you not use to clean quartz countertops?

Avoid the following products on quartz:

• Abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads
• Vinegar
• Ammonia
• Bathroom cleaners
• Bleach
• Acidic or citrus cleaners
• Alcohol-based products
• Wax-based cleaners/polishes

Can Quartz be damaged by heat?

Quartz is very heat resistant but not entirely heat proof. Using trivets and not exposing the surface directly to high temperatures will help prevent damage. However, prolonged direct heat exposure can cause cracks, marks, or discoloration that require professional repair.

How can you remove dried or stubborn stains from quartz?

For dried or stubborn stains, make a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit on the stain for 5 minutes before gently scrubbing with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly. Hydrogen peroxide or a stone-safe cleaner can also help lift stubborn stains before rinsing.

How often should you seal or re-polish quartz?

Quartz does not require sealing. For polishing, every 3-5 years is generally recommended depending on usage and condition. Using quartz-specific polish regularly helps maintain the surface sheen. Professional re-polishing services can revive dull or etched quartz.