Quartz countertops are popular in many modern kitchens and bathrooms because of their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, like any countertop material, quartz requires proper cleaning and care to keep it looking its best. Many homeowners wonder if Bon Ami, a popular household cleaner, is safe to use on quartz countertops.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz provides strength and hardness, while the resins bind the material together.
Some key features of quartz countertops:
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant
- Resists stains, heat, and moisture
- Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns
- Non-porous so bacteria cannot penetrate the surface
- Requires minimal maintenance
Quartz is an ideal countertop material for busy kitchens and baths. However, as a man-made material, it still requires proper care and cleaning.
What is Bon Ami?
Bon Ami is a household cleaning powder made of feldspar, quartz, and carbonate minerals. It has been around since 1886 and is known for its gentle, non-abrasive formula safe for most surfaces.
Some key attributes of Bon Ami:
- Made from natural minerals
- Non-toxic and biodegradable
- Very fine powder won’t scratch most surfaces
- Safe for cleaning glass, ceramic, porcelain, aluminum, and enamel
- Versatile for tackling many cleaning jobs
The key to Bon Ami’s effectiveness is its fine, soft powder that doesn’t scratch surfaces like harsh abrasives. It works by scouring away dirt and buildup without damaging the material underneath when used properly.
Is Bon Ami Safe on Quartz Countertops?
Bon Ami is generally considered safe to use on quartz countertops. When diluted with water, it becomes a mild cleaner that can remove most dirt and stains without etching or dulling the quartz surface.
Here are some tips for successfully using Bon Ami on quartz:
- Always mix Bon Ami with water to form a mild paste or cleaning solution before applying to quartz. Never use dry powder directly on the countertop.
- Spot test Bon Ami on an inconspicuous part of the quartz to check for any adverse effects.
- Use a soft sponge or cloth when cleaning with Bon Ami. Avoid abrasive pads.
- Rinse the countertop thoroughly after cleaning to remove all Bon Ami residue.
- For tough stains, allow the Bon Ami paste to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
- Be cautious using Bon Ami around any polished, shiny, or glossy areas of the quartz, as it could dull the finish over time with repeated use.
- Use Bon Ami sparingly on quartz. Overusing it repeatedly in the same spot could eventually etch the surface.
- Look for any visible scratching of the quartz after the first use and discontinue if any damage is seen.
Overall, Bon Ami is considered a quartz-safe cleaner when used properly. Just be careful not to over-scrub, use too much force, or fail to rinse it thoroughly after cleaning. It’s also wise to test it first in an inconspicuous spot before tackling the entire countertop. For routine cleaning, a mild soap and water solution is usually recommended for quartz surfaces.
How to Clean Quartz Countertops
While Bon Ami can be used occasionally for spot cleaning quartz, regular gentle cleaning is the best practice. Here are some tips for keeping quartz sparkling:
- For routine cleaning, use a soft sponge or cloth with warm water and mild soap. Avoid harsh detergents or abrasive cleaners.
- Rinse quartz thoroughly after washing to remove all residue.
- Blot up spills immediately to prevent stains. Quartz is stain-resistant but not stain-proof.
- For dried spills, use a non-abrasive cleaning pad with warm water and mild soap.
- Disinfect quartz periodically with a cleaner made for stone surfaces.
- Use trivets and pot holders to protect quartz from hot pans and objects that could scratch.
- Reseal quartz every 1-2 years with a stone sealer to prevent stains in porous areas.
- Avoid using any cleaner containing lemon, vinegar, or other acids on quartz. This could etch the finish.
By using the proper techniques, quartz countertops should retain their beauty with minimal maintenance required. An occasional use of Bon Ami can help tackle pesky spots as part of your overall cleaning routine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Bon Ami on Quartz
Is it okay to use Bon Ami daily on my quartz countertops?
No, you should not use Bon Ami daily on quartz. Daily use could eventually cause etching or dulling of the surface over time. Reserve Bon Ami for periodic or spot cleaning use only. For routine cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution.
Can Bon Ami remove hard water stains from quartz?
Yes, Bon Ami can help remove hard water stains from quartz countertops. Make a paste with Bon Ami powder and water and apply it to the stain. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. Repeat as needed for tough stains.
Will Bon Ami scratch my quartz countertop?
When used properly, Bon Ami should not scratch quartz surfaces. Always mix the powder with water, use a soft cloth or sponge, avoid excessive scrubbing pressure, and thoroughly rinse after cleaning. Discontinue use if any scratches become visible after the first application.
Is it safe to use Bon Ami on the polished areas of my quartz?
Use caution when using Bon Ami on polished quartz surfaces. Start by testing it on a small, inconspicuous spot first. If no dulling occurs, you can cautiously use it on visible areas, but avoid over-scrubbing and immediately rinse it off. For best results, limit Bon Ami use to unpolished sections.
Can I use Bon Ami in my quartz sinks and bathtub surrounds?
Yes, Bon Ami is safe for use on quartz sinks and bathtub surrounds, following the same diluting and rinsing precautions. Mix with water to make a mild paste, spot test first, use gentle pressure, and rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
What’s the best way to dilute Bon Ami powder for use on quartz?
Mix 1-2 tablespoons of Bon Ami powder with 2 cups of warm water to make a mild quartz-safe cleaning solution. Adjust the concentration as needed based on the amount of cleaning power required. More water dilutes the cleaner for gentle everyday use. Less water makes a stronger paste for tougher stains.
Conclusion
When used correctly, Bon Ami can be an effective cleaning option for quartz countertops and surfaces. Its powder formula is gentle enough to lift dirt and buildup without damaging the durable quartz material. However, be cautious not to overuse Bon Ami in the same spot repeatedly, and always dilute it, rinse thoroughly, and spot test on an inconspicuous area first. For routine cleaning, a simple soap and water solution is the best practice for maintaining the beauty of quartz countertops for years to come. With some care and minimal maintenance, quartz will retain its signature polished look.