Clean the Surface Thoroughly
The first step is to clean the quartz countertop surface thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or buildup. Use a non-abrasive cleaner formulated for stone surfaces. Avoid using acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon juice as these can etch the surface.
- Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle. Apply the solution to the countertop and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This will help loosen any grease or grime.
- Use a soft microfiber cloth, sponge, or non-abrasive scrub pad to gently scrub the surface. Apply light pressure and wipe in circular motions.
- Rinse well with clean water and dry with a soft towel. Make sure no cleaner residue remains on the surface.
Polish with a Quartz Countertop Cleaner/Polisher
For routine maintenance shining, use a store-bought quartz countertop cleaner and polisher. These are specially formulated for quartz and will clean, shine, and help protect the surface.
- Apply a small amount of the polish to a soft cloth. Rub it into the countertop using gentle, circular motions.
- Let the polish dry and hazily coat the surface. This should take 5-10 minutes.
- Buff the haze away with a clean, dry microfiber cloth until the shine comes through.
- Repeat the process if needed for extremely dull or dirty areas. But avoid over-polishing as this can strip the sealer.
Deep Clean with Baking Soda
For a deeper cleaning shine, make a paste of baking soda and water. The mild abrasiveness of the baking soda will help scrub away built-up grime.
- Mix 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda with just enough water to make a spreadable paste.
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, apply the paste to the quartz. Gently scrub in circles.
- Let the paste sit for 5 minutes before rinsing clean and drying well.
- Follow up by polishing with a quartz-specific polish to restore the shine.
Maintain the Shine
To keep your quartz countertops looking shiny and new, follow these care tips:
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining.
- Avoid exposing quartz to strong chemicals like paint removers or oven cleaners.
- Use cutting boards and hot pads to protect the surface.
- Re-apply quartz polish every week or two for maintenance.
- Deep clean every 3-6 months with baking soda paste.
- Consider resealing the quartz every 2-3 years by a professional.
Shining quartz countertops is easy with the right cleaners and techniques. Regular polishing maintains the factory sheen, while occasional deep cleaning removes built-up grime. Follow these how-to steps and your quartz will stay gleaming for years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shining Quartz Countertops
What is the best way to make dull quartz countertops shine again?
The best way is to thoroughly clean the surface with a stone cleaner or dish soap and water. Follow up by applying a quartz polish or cleaner and buffing it to restore shine. For extremely dulled or dirty quartz, make a baking soda paste and gently scrub.
How can I make my quartz countertops look brand new again?
Cleaning thoroughly and polishing is the first step. If that doesn’t restore the original shine, consider a professional deep cleaning and resealing service. This will remove built-up grime from the tiny pores and re-seal the countertop for long-lasting shine.
How often should I polish my quartz countertops?
Plan to polish your quartz countertops once a week or every other week for routine maintenance. Frequent gentle polishing keeps the surface shiny and helps prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. Over-polishing can damage the sealer so more isn’t better.
What is a good homemade quartz countertop polish?
An easy homemade polish is equal parts olive oil and lemon juice. Apply a small amount to the quartz and buff with a soft cloth. The acidity in the lemon brightens while the olive oil conditions. For deeper cleaning, make a paste of baking soda and water.
Should I seal my quartz countertops?
Quartz is non-porous so sealing isn’t required for waterproofing. However, sealing does add a protective layer against stains and etching. Resealing every 2-3 years will maintain the factory seal. Use a sealant made specifically for quartz.
Conclusion
With the right cleaning approach and products, it is easy to keep your quartz countertops shining like new. Regular polishing removes surface dirt while occasional deep cleaning with baking soda pulls grime from pores. Be sure to use non-abrasive cleaners formulated for stone. With proper care, your beautiful quartz countertops will maintain their gleaming finish for many years.