Cleaning quartz countertops
The first step is to thoroughly clean the countertops. This will remove any dirt, debris, stains, and residues that may be dulling the surface.
What you need
- Mild dish soap or stone cleaner
- Soft cloth
- Warm water
- pH neutral stone cleaner (optional)
Steps
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a bowl. You can also use a specially formulated stone cleaner.
- Dip the soft cloth in the soap solution and wring it out so it is damp but not dripping.
- Wipe down the entire surface of the quartz countertop using gentle circular motions. Apply light pressure as you wipe.
- Rinse the cloth frequently and change the water when it gets dirty. Make sure to wipe away all soap residue.
- Allow the countertops to air dry completely. Don’t use paper towels as they can leave lint behind.
- For stubborn stains and residues, use a pH neutral stone cleaner. Test on a small area first.
Thorough cleaning will prep the countertops for polishing and restoring the finish. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface.
Polishing quartz countertops
Polishing helps revive the glossy finish of quartz countertops. You can polish using a store-bought quartz polish or make your own DIY polish.
What you need
- Soft cloth
- Quartz polish or DIY mix of olive oil and lemon juice
Steps
- Clean the countertops thoroughly before polishing. Make sure the surface is dry.
- Apply a small amount of quartz polish directly on the countertop surface.
- Use circular motions to rub the polish all over the surface using a soft cloth.
- Focus on polishing a small area at a time. Keep the area wet as you polish.
- Buff the countertops using a dry soft cloth to remove excess polish and streaks.
- Alternatively, mix equal parts olive oil and lemon juice. Dip a cloth in the mix and polish the counters.
- Rinse with a damp cloth and dry completely afterwards.
- Repeat weekly for best results. This helps keep the finish restored.
Polishing fills in micro-scratches and keeps the countertop shine looking revitalized. Take care not to use too much pressure when polishing.
Resealing quartz countertops
While quartz countertops don’t need sealing as often as natural stone, periodic resealing can help restore the finish. Reseal once every 1-2 years.
What you need
- Quartz sealer
- Disposable paintbrush
- Soft cloth
- Painter’s tape
Steps
- Clean and dry the countertops thoroughly before resealing.
- Tape off any areas you don’t want the sealer to touch using painter’s tape.
- Apply a thin, even layer of quartz sealer on the counters using a disposable paintbrush.
- Allow the sealer to penetrate the surface for 5-10 minutes. Don’t let it pool.
- Buff off any excess sealer with a soft cloth. Wipe gently to remove residue.
- A second coat may be needed for more protection. Wait 30 minutes before applying again.
- Remove the painter’s tape. Keep the surface dry for at least 24 hours.
Resealing forms a protective barrier that prevents dulling from everyday use. It also makes cleaning easier.
Restoring etched/damaged spots
For etched, scratched, or damaged areas of quartz countertops, specialized restoration kits can help.
What you need:
- 2000-3000 grit wet-dry sandpaper
- Quartz polish
- Restoration kit (depending on damage)
Steps
- Try polishing first using sandpaper and polish to reduce light etching.
- For deep scratches, chips, or discoloration, use a quartz restoration kit.
- Carefully follow kit directions to fill damaged areas and blend with surrounding countertop.
- Reseal and polish treated areas when done to blend with finish.
Significant damage may require professional help. But kits can restore mild to moderate etching or scratches.
Prevention
To maintain the finish and minimize need for restoration:
- Use cutting boards to protect from knives. Never cut directly on quartz.
- Clean spills immediately to prevent staining.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals that can etch the surface.
- Don’t place hot pans directly on the countertop. Always use trivets.
With regular care and prompt attention to any damages, you can keep quartz countertops looking like new for many years. Polishing and resealing restores the finish while repair kits can fix most etching or scratches.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I polish quartz countertops?
It is recommended to polish quartz countertops once a week for best results. Frequent polishing helps maintain the glossy finished look.
What’s the best homemade polish for quartz?
An easy DIY polish for quartz combines equal parts olive oil and lemon juice. The oil helps condition while the acid in lemon gently cleans. Rub the mixture on counters using a soft cloth and circular motions.
Can I use a sealer on engineered quartz?
While sealing isn’t required, it can help prolong the finish of quartz. Use a sealer made specifically for engineered stone once every 1-2 years. Avoid sealers with silicones that can cause hazing.
How do you remove dull spots from quartz?
Dull spots can be polished away using 3000 grit wet-dry sandpaper and a quartz polish. Rub the sanded areas with polish using a soft cloth until the dullness disappears. Reseal afterwards. Avoid abrasives that can scratch quartz.
What is the best way to restore scratched quartz?
For light scratches, sand the area smooth using wet 2000-3000 grit sandpaper. Wipe residual dust away. Apply quartz polish and buff until scratches diminish. Deeper scratches may require a professional quartz restoration kit.
Conclusion
With proper cleaning, polishing, resealing, and prompt repairs, quartz countertops can maintain their finish beautifully. While durable, quartz still requires some care. Following these restoration techniques can help revive dull, etched, or scratched countertops. Pay attention to preventative measures as well, and your quartz counters will stay looking like new for many years.