Quartz countertops have become immensely popular in recent years due to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, some people have concerns about the safety of quartz for food preparation and general use. Here is a detailed look at whether quartz countertops are safe.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz combined with resin and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-94%. The rest is polymer resins that bind the quartz together.
The resin makes quartz non-porous, stain-resistant, and easy to clean and maintain. Quartz slabs are manufactured in factories under precise conditions to create a consistent, durable material.
Is Quartz Toxic?
Quartz is considered non-toxic and safe for use in kitchen countertops. The key points regarding the safety of quartz are:
- Quartz is naturally scratch, stain, heat, and bacteria resistant making it a hygienic surface.
- It does not emit harmful Radon gas like some natural stones.
- The resin used to bind the crushed quartz is non-toxic.
- Quartz does not release VOC emissions once installed.
- Food-grade sealants are used to further enhance safety.
- Quartz has been certified safe by regulating organizations.
Reputable quartz brands test their products to meet health and safety standards. Major brands provide GREENGUARD Gold certification to prove their quartz meets strict standards for chemical emissions.
FDA and NSF Certifications
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) have certified that quartz surfaces are safe for food contact. This means they have passed tests confirming that quartz will not leach chemicals or contaminants into food prepared on its surface.
NSF certification involves rigorous lab testing to ensure products meet public health standards. The leading quartz manufacturers have obtained NSF certifications for their products.
Is There Any Risk from Silica Dust?
Silica dust exposure is only a concern during the fabrication and installation process. When quartz countertops are cut and polished silica particles can be released into the air as fine breathable dust. This silica dust can accumulate in the lungs and cause silicosis.
However, once the quartz counter is installed in your home, it does not release silica dust. The resin binds the quartz particles together into an inert slab.
Quartz fabrication should always be left to professional workshops that use dust extraction systems and provide workers with safety gear. But for the end consumer, installed quartz counters are not a silica dust hazard.
Does Quartz Harbor More Bacteria?
Quartz does not harbor more bacteria than other countertop materials. In fact, its non-porous surface makes it resistant to bacteria buildup.
Early studies that suggested quartz harbors more bacteria did not disinfect samples before conducting tests. When properly cleaned and disinfected, quartz does not hold onto bacteria.
Quartz’s resistance to stains and scratches helps keep the surface smooth which deters bacterial growth. Thorough cleaning and disinfecting is still required for any countertop material.
Can Quartz Crack or Damage Easily?
Quartz has excellent durability and resistance to cracks and chips. In fact, quartz rates higher than granite and marble for durability. However, poor installation or mistreatment can result in damage.
- Quartz can crack if the underlying support is uneven or inadequate. Proper cabinet and substrate support must be ensured.
- Excessive force or impact, especially on edges and seams, can damage quartz. Avoid hard blows.
- Burns from hot pans can scorch quartz. Always use trivets and pads.
- Aggressive cleaners and disinfectants can dull the finish. Use only approved cleaners.
With proper care, quartz countertops should last for many years without issues. Damage is typically related to major installation problems or accidental mistreatment.
Is Quartz Safe for Kids and Pets?
Quartz countertops present no toxicity risks for kids and pets in a home environment. The resin binders, polymers, and sealants used in manufacturing quartz are all non-toxic.
The smooth non-porous surface makes it unlikely to harbor germs and allergens. So quartz does not pose any special health risks for children or pets.
As with any hard surface, falls and accidents can cause injury around quartz counters. Supervision of young kids and pets near kitchen surfaces is always advised. But quartz itself is completely safe for homes with kids and pets when installed correctly.
Is It Safe to Cut on Quartz Countertops?
Quartz holds up well against cutting and slicing. The durable surface resists scratches and does not require special cutting boards. However, using a cutting board can minimize superficial knicks over time.
Avoid cutting directly on the countertop joints or seams. Use a board when cutting harder items like uncooked meat bones to protect vulnerable edges. Blunt knives or aggressive chopping straight on the counter should be avoided.
In general, moderate kitchen cutting and slicing is safe directly on quartz counters. But boards and trivets help preserve the pristine appearance long-term.
Is Quartz Prone to Staining or Etching?
Quartz has excellent stain resistance compared to marble and granite countertops. Most food and beverages will not penetrate and stain a quartz surface.
However, highly pigmented substances like wine, coffee and cooking oils can stain quartz if left for prolonged time. Prompt cleanup of spills prevents stains.
Acidic foods and cleaners have the potential to etch quartz surfaces over time. Avoid prolonged exposure to lemon juice, vinegar or alkaline drain cleaners. Always wipe up food prep mess to minimize etching risks.
Overall, quartz offers very good stain and etch resistance. With prompt cleanup of spills and messes, it will retain its original beauty.
Can You Use Bleach or Harsh Cleaners on Quartz?
It is best to avoid harsh cleaners and disinfectants on quartz counters. The recommended cleaners are:
- Warm soapy water
- Mild dish soap
- Stone cleaner designed for quartz
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Isopropyl alcohol
Avoid the following on quartz:
- Vinegar or lemon juice (can etch the surface)
- Abrasive cleansers
- Alkaline or acidic cleaners
- Bleach
- Ammonia
- Dense cleaning pads that can dull the finish
Always refer to the quartz manufacturer’s care guide for the approved cleaning products. Disinfecting can be done with dilute bleach solutions if needed, but this should be minimized.
Is Quartz Prone to Damage from Heat?
Quartz is more heat resistant than natural stone counters like marble. But sudden drastic temperature changes can damage quartz.
- Use trivets and hot pads when placing hot pots and pans on the counter. Avoid direct contact.
- Run cold water if food or liquid is spilled that can rapidly heat the surface.
- Avoid exposure to open flames like candles or bunsen burners.
With proper care, quartz maintains its durability and appearance. But it can get scorched or cracked if exposed to extreme direct heat. Monitoring food prep and using trivets prevents heat damage.
Conclusion
Quartz offers many practical benefits alongside its sleek aesthetics. When selecting higher quality products and brands, quartz countertops provide a safe, non-toxic, and durable surface.
With some basic care and precautions, quartz counters will retain their beauty for many years. They require much less maintenance compared to natural stone.
For most homeowners, the advantages of quartz safely outweigh any minor downsides. With proper installation and regular care, quartz makes for an excellent countertop choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to prepare food directly on quartz?
Yes, quartz has been certified safe for direct food contact by the FDA and NSF. Its non-porous surface resists bacteria growth. Simple cleaning and disinfecting keeps quartz hygienic for food prep.
Can hot pans damage a quartz countertop?
Exposing quartz to sudden extreme heat can damage the surface. Always use hot pads or trivets for hot cookware. Avoid direct flame contact. With some basic precautions, quartz handles typical cooking heat well.
Does quartz require special cleaning products?
Most household cleaners and soaps are fine for regular quartz care. Avoid abrasive scrubbers or pads. Also avoid harsh alkaline or acidic cleaners that can etch the surface. Simple soap and water keeps quartz clean without damaging the finish.
Is quartz safer than granite countertops?
Quartz and granite are both safe options, but quartz offers some advantages. Granite can harbor bacteria in the tiny pores. Quartz’s non-porous surface makes it very resistant to bacteria buildup. Quartz also does not emit radon gas like some granite.
Can you cut meat or vegetables directly on a quartz countertop?
Yes, the durable quartz surface holds up well against moderate kitchen cutting and chopping. Using a separate cutting board helps preserve the appearance long-term. Avoid hard blows directly on joints and seams that can cause cracks.
Is quartz sustainable?
Most quartz contains high percentages of recycled content. Manufacturing quartz counters also has a lower carbon footprint compared to mining natural stone. Durability and long lifespan make quartz a reasonably green option. Brands are also innovating more sustainable quartz production methods.