Having a quartz countertop in your kitchen or bathroom can add a stylish, high-end look. However, quartz requires some care and maintenance to keep it looking pristine. Here are some tips on how to protect and maintain your quartz countertops.
Use Cutting Boards
One of the best ways to protect your quartz countertop is to use cutting boards. Never cut directly on the countertop, as this can scratch and dull the surface. Always use a cutting board for food prep. Look for boards made of wood, plastic, or bamboo rather than glass or marble, which could also scratch quartz.
Clean Spills Promptly
Quartz is resistant to stains, but you still want to clean up spills as soon as possible. For food and drink spills, wipe them away with a soft cloth or paper towel. For grease spills, use a degreasing cleaner made specifically for stone surfaces. Don’t let any spills sit too long, as they could seep into the pores of the quartz.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
You want to clean quartz regularly to keep it free of dirt, grime, and bacteria. However, avoid using harsh chemicals and cleaners, including those with acidic or alkaline ingredients. Stick to a mild dish soap and warm water for daily cleaning. For a deeper clean, look for a stone-safe cleaner.
Protect from Heat
While quartz is very durable, it can be damaged by excessive heat. Always use trivets or mats when placing hot pans, baking dishes, or other heated items on the countertop. The intense heat could scorch or cause cracks in the surface. Avoid exposing quartz to open flames.
Re-seal as Needed
Quartz countertops typically come pre-sealed from the factory to protect from stains and damage. However, this sealant layer can wear off over time with regular use. Every 1-2 years, consider re-sealing your quartz counters with a stone sealant designed for quartz or engineered stone. This will refresh the protective barrier.
Avoid Standing Water
You don’t want water to pool on your quartz countertops for long periods of time. The prolonged moisture exposure could damage the sealant layer or discolor the stone. Always wipe up excess water from cleaning or spills. If water accumulates around the sink or faucets, wipe it away frequently.
Handle Heavy Items with Care
Be cautious when placing very heavy items on your quartz countertops. The solid surface is durable, but dropping extremely heavy objects directly on it could potentially cause chips, cracks, or discoloration. Avoid abrasively dragging pots, appliances, etc across the surface too.
Apply Wax Occasionally
For added protection between sealings, you can apply a wax to your quartz about once a month. Use a wax made specifically for engineered stone. Apply a thin layer across the surface with a soft cloth. Buff off excess. This adds an extra layer of protection from everyday stains and marks.
Get Annual Professional Deep Cleaning
In addition to your regular maintenance, it’s a good idea to have quartz countertops professionally cleaned once a year. Pros have access to stronger cleaners and tools that can remove built-up grime for a deeper clean. They can also re-seal and wax the counters if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Protecting Quartz Countertops
Can you cut on quartz countertops?
It’s not recommended. Quartz is very durable but cutting directly on the surface can still damage it over time. Always use a cutting board instead to protect quartz countertops.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
Quartz is pre-sealed, but this sealant layer wears down over time. Resealing your quartz counters every 1-2 years will refresh the protective barrier and prevent stains.
What happens if quartz gets wet?
Occasional water exposure won’t damage properly sealed quartz. However, you don’t want standing water pooling on quartz for extended periods, as this can seep into pores and cause discoloration. Always wipe up spills and water quickly.
Can you use bleach on quartz?
No, avoid using bleach or other cleaners containing chlorine on quartz surfaces. The chemicals can be too harsh and damage the finish. Mild dish soap and water or a specially formulated quartz cleaner are safer options.
How do you clean oil from quartz countertops?
Use a degreasing cleaner made specifically for stone countertops. Spray it onto the oily area, let it sit for 5 minutes, then wipe clean with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive scrubbing. This process can remove grease and cooking oil stains.
Can quartz counters stain?
Quartz is resistant to stains but not 100% stain-proof. Spills should be cleaned quickly to avoid possible staining, especially oil, wine, coffee, and other pigmented liquids. Resealing helps protect the surface from absorbs stains over time.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops add elegance and luxury appeal to any kitchen or bath décor. While durable, quartz still requires some regular care and maintenance to keep it looking like new. Follow these tips on using cutting boards, prompt cleaning, gentle cleaners, heat protection, sealing, and handling heavy objects to help prevent scratches, stains, and other damage. With proper routine care, quartz countertops can stay looking pristine for many years. Be sure to frequently wipe up water and give them a thorough deep clean annually by pros too. Taking these steps will help protect your investment in beautiful quartz surfaces.