Cleaning Cambria Quartz Countertops
Use a mild soap and water – Cambria quartz can be cleaned with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge and a mild soap and warm water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or cleaning pads which can dull the surface.
Clean spills quickly – Immediately wipe up spills, especially oils, wine, and acidic liquids like lemon juice which can etch the surface if left too long. A damp microfiber cloth usually removes spills if cleaned right away.
Use a granite cleaner – For routine cleaning, use a natural stone cleaner made specifically for quartz. This helps remove dirt and residue without being too harsh. Avoid glass cleaners.
Disinfect occasionally – Sanitize the surface periodically with a disinfectant spray or wipe. This is particularly important for food prep areas. Check the disinfectant is safe for quartz first.
Avoid harsh chemicals – Avoid using products containing bleach, ammonia, acids, or abrasives. Also avoid vinegar, citrus, paint removers etc which can damage the quartz.
Preventing Damage to Cambria Quartz
Use cutting boards – Always use a cutting board when chopping, slicing or prepping food to prevent scratching or chipping the quartz surface.
Use trivets and hot pads – Place trivets or pads under hot pans, bakeware, irons, crockpots or electric skillets to prevent thermal shock. Cambria can withstand brief exposure to moderate heat.
Clean up spills immediately – Promptly wipe up food spills like wine, coffee and fruit juices to prevent staining. For dried spills, use a plastic scraper to gently lift off.
Avoid harsh chemicals – Keep nail polish remover, permanent markers, paint strippers and strong chemicals away from the countertop. If accidentally exposed, clean right away with soap and water.
Protect from direct sunlight – Prolonged direct sunlight can eventually cause subtle discoloration. Close nearby blinds or curtains to protect the surface.
Repairing Damage to Cambria Quartz
Scratches – Very light surface scratches can be buffed out with a Scotch-Brite pad. Use a rubbing compound for deeper scratches. Contact a professional for serious scratches.
Chips and cracks – Small chips can be repaired with a quartz repair kit available online or at hardware stores. Larger cracks and damage will need professional repair.
Etching – Light etching can be smoothed by vigorously scrubbing with a Scotch-Brite pad and alkaline quartz cleaner. Severe etching requires professional refinishing.
Stains – For stubborn stains, apply a poultice made with alkaline quartz cleaner and pH-neutral hydrogen peroxide. Cover it and allow it to draw out the stain.
Burn marks – Gently rub the mark with a Scotch-Brite pad and alkaline quartz cleaner. If severe, professional help is needed to sand and refinish the damaged area.
Maintaining the Seal on Cambria Quartz
Cambria quartz comes pre-sealed from the factory, but the seal needs to be maintained over time. Here are some tips:
- Annually inspect the countertop for signs of wear in the sealant like water marks.
- Reseal the quartz every 1-2 years with a penetrating quartz sealer to prevent staining and etching.
- Before resealing, thoroughly clean and dry the countertop. Apply 2-3 thin coats of sealer with a microfiber cloth following the product instructions.
- Allow each sealer coat to dry completely before adding the next layer. The countertop can be used after 24 hours.
FAQs About Caring for Cambria Quartz
How often should I seal my Cambria quartz countertop?
It’s recommended to reseal Cambria quartz every 1-2 years with a penetrating quartz sealer to maintain protection. Inspect annually for any signs of wear in the sealant.
What’s the best way to clean Cambria quartz?
Use a mild soap and warm water for routine cleaning. For stubborn messes, use a specially formulated natural stone cleaner. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads. Always wipe up spills quickly to prevent stains.
Can I cut directly on Cambria quartz?
No, always use a cutting board. The quartz is very hard but direct contact with a knife can chip the surface.
Are there any chemicals that can damage Cambria quartz?
Yes, avoid bleach, oven cleaners, acetone, paint strippers, drain cleaners, and acid-based cleaners which can all etch or discolor the quartz surface.
How do I get rid of hard water marks on my Cambria countertop?
Hard water marks can be gently scrubbed away with a Scotch-Brite pad and alkaline quartz cleaner. Avoid abrasive powders. Resealing regularly also prevents buildup of water marks.
What should I do if food or liquids stain my Cambria quartz?
Immediately clean any spilled food, coffee, wine etc with a damp cloth. For dried stains, use an alkaline quartz cleaner and non-abrasive scrubbing. PH-neutral hydrogen peroxide can also lift stubborn stains. Reseal after.
Conclusion
Cambria’s quartz countertops are low-maintenance compared to other surfaces like marble. But some basic care is still required to maintain their beauty and durability. Always use trivets, wipe spills quickly, and avoid harsh chemicals. Resealing annually will also keep the quartz looking like new. With the proper care, Cambria quartz countertops can stay looking pristine for many years in any kitchen or bathroom.