Quartz countertops are an incredibly popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms because of their durability, low maintenance, and beautiful appearance. However, over time even quartz can lose its luster and appear dull or dirty. If your quartz countertops have lost their shine, don’t worry – with the right techniques and products, you can restore them to look as good as new.
Why Do Quartz Countertops Lose Their Shine?
There are a few key reasons quartz countertops can become dull over time:
- Buildup of dirt, grime, and stains – Spills that aren’t wiped up quickly can seep into the pores of the quartz leaving a residue. Dirt and grime also accumulate from daily use.
- Etching – Acidic substances like citrus, vinegar, and some cleaners can etch or damage the surface leaving it looking worn.
- Chips and scratches – Dropping heavy objects on quartz can chip the surface, while utensils, pots, and pans can scratch it.
- Loss of sealant – Many quartz countertops have a clear sealant applied that eventually wears away.
- Exposure to direct sunlight – The UV rays can slowly cause dulling and discoloration.
The good news is with the proper cleaning, polishing, and re-sealing, you can restore the beautiful, lustrous look of your quartz countertops.
Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Regular cleaning is the first step toward keeping quartz counters looking their best. Here are some tips:
Use the Right Cleaners
Avoid harsh cleaners like bleach, ammonia, vinegar, citrus, abrasives, or anything acidic which can damage and etch the surface. Also steer clear of oil-based cleaners. The best options are:
- Mild dish soap and warm water
- Stone cleaners specifically formulated for quartz
- 50/50 vinegar and water solution (for sealed counters only to avoid etching)
Clean Spills Promptly
Don’t let spills sit. Quickly wipe up food and drinks as they occur to prevent staining. For dried on messes, let a damp cloth soaked in mild soap sit on the spot for a few minutes before wiping to loosen the grime.
Clean with Non-Abrasive Materials
Use soft cloths, sponges, or non-scratch scrub brushes. Avoid abrasive pads or paper towels which could scratch the surface.
Rinse Well After Cleaning
It’s important to remove all cleaning solution residues which can become sticky and attract more dirt. Thoroughly rinse the counters after cleaning.
Polishing Quartz Countertops
In addition to regular cleaning, polishing is recommended every 3-6 months to maintain the shine. Here are some tips:
Use Quartz Polishing Products
Special quartz polishing creams contain mild abrasives that will buff out stains and surface dullness, but aren’t harsh enough to cause scratching. Look for brands formulated for quartz like Gel-Gloss or StoneTech.
Apply the Polish with a Soft Cloth
Dip a soft, clean cloth into the polish and rub over the surface using small circular motions. Avoid applying too much pressure. Pay extra attention to high use areas.
Rinse and Dry Completely
After polishing, rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all residue. Make sure to dry the counters well so no moisture is left behind.
Consider Professional Polishing
For heavy etching or damage, professional polishing using specialized equipment can help resurface dulled areas and restore the shine. Ask your quartz manufacturer for a recommendation.
Resealing Quartz Countertops
Many quartz manufacturers recommend resealing every 1-2 years, especially for heavily used surfaces. Here’s how to do it:
Clean the Surface Thoroughly First
Make sure the counters are completely free of any dirt, grime, polish residues, or waxes before applying a fresh sealant.
Choose a Sealant Made for Quartz
Look for a water-based sealant formulated just for quartz surfaces. Some good options are Q-Seal, Bulletproof, or Dry Treat.
Apply According to Product Instructions
Different sealers may require a certain number of coats or curing times. Follow the product directions closely.
Spread Sealant Evenly Over the Surface
Use a clean applicator cloth to carefully spread the sealant over the entire counter. Remove any excess.
Allow Proper Curing Time
Don’t use the counters until the sealant has fully cured. This may take up to a few days.
Resealing will help protect the finish from stains and etching to keep your quartz counters looking like new.
Avoiding Damage to Quartz Countertops
In addition to proper care and cleaning, preventing damage is key to maintaining the shine. Here are some tips:
- Use cutting boards and trivets for hot items to avoid scratches and burns.
- Clean up spills immediately before they have a chance to soak in and stain.
- Avoid using cleaners, chemicals, or food prep items that can etch the surface.
- Don’t place extremely heavy objects on the counters that could chip or crack them.
- Reseal counters regularly to protect from wear and tear.
- Position quartz away from sinks and dishwashers to minimize water exposure.
With regular cleaning and by taking steps to prevent damage, you can keep your quartz counters gleaming for years.
FAQs About Restoring Shine to Quartz Countertops
How often should I polish my quartz countertops?
It’s recommended to polish quartz every 3-6 months using a specialized quartz polishing cream and soft cloth to maintain the shine. High traffic areas may need more frequent polishing.
What are the best cleaners to use on quartz?
Mild soap and water, stone cleaners made for quartz, or a 50/50 vinegar/water mix for sealed counters work well. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, abrasives, acidic cleaners, and oil-based products.
Can I use a buffing pad or electric polisher on my quartz?
It’s best to polish quartz by hand using a soft cloth and minimal pressure. Electric polishers and aggressive buffing can cause excess heating and damage the surface.
My quartz has a noticeable scratch. Can it be repaired?
Light scratches can often be buffed out with polishing. Deeper scratches may require professional resurfacing. Avoid using scratch removal kits which can damage the finish further.
How do I know if my quartz counters need to be resealed?
Signs that resealing is needed include water, oil or stains soaking into the surface rather than beading up, visible wear around sinks or dishwashers, and increased etching from acidic substances.
What’s the best way to remove stains from quartz?
Try a mild cleaner and soft cloth first. For stubborn stains, let a cloth soaked in diluted bleach or hydrogen peroxide sit on the spot for a few minutes before scrubbing gently. Avoid harsh scrubbing which can damage the finish.
Conclusion
While quartz countertops are very low maintenance compared to other surfaces, they can lose their factory shine over time with regular use. By using proper cleaners, polishing routinely, resealing when needed, and taking steps to prevent damage, you can keep your quartz counters looking like new for years to come. With a little regular care, your counters will maintain their beautiful, lustrous appearance.