Quartz countertops are popular in many modern kitchens due to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, even quartz needs occasional cleaning to keep it looking its best. Some homeowners prefer using natural cleaning solutions like Thieves household cleaner. But is Thieves safe for quartz?
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-95%. Polymer resins make up the remaining 5-10%.
Compared to natural stone like granite, quartz is non-porous and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It does not require regular sealing like granite. However, quartz can be damaged by excessive pressure or impact.
Quartz comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns. The resins allow manufacturers to create consistent, customized looks. Popular styles mimic the appearance of natural materials like marble or granite.
Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops
Pros:
- Durable and scratch-resistant surface
- Low porosity makes it stain-resistant
- Does not require regular sealing
- Resists heat and scorching
- Nonporous so it does not harbor bacteria
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Consistent color and styling
- Comes in wide range of colors/patterns
- Long lifespan compared to other surfaces
Cons:
- Can chip if subjected to heavy impact
- Requires occasional reconditioning over time
- Heat resistance not as good as granite
- Less variety in pattern/color than natural stone
- Man-made material lacks natural stone charm
How to Clean Quartz Countertops
Quartz is fairly low maintenance compared to other countertop materials. Regular cleaning is easy.
For daily cleaning, use a soft sponge or cloth with warm water and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads, which can dull the surface.
For food stains or dirt buildup, use a non-abrasive cleaner formulated for stone. Many popular granite and stone cleaners are safe for quartz.
It is also important to sanitize quartz surfaces occasionally. Diluted bleach or disinfecting wipes can sanitize without damaging quartz.
Avoid exposing quartz to strong chemicals like paint removers, furniture strippers, drain cleaners, etc. Rinse any spills off immediately.
Reconditioning quartz every 1-2 years will keep it looking its best. Use a quartz polish to remove etching and restore shine.
What is Thieves Household Cleaner?
Thieves is a plant-based, multi-purpose cleaner made by Young Living Essential Oils. It contains a blend of therapeutic grade essential oils like lemon, clove, cinnamon bark, rosemary, and eucalyptus.
The oil blend has antibacterial properties to disinfect surfaces. It also leaves behind a pleasant, spicy aroma.
In addition to the essential oils, Thieves cleaner contains castile soap. Castile soap is vegetable-based and biodegradable.
Thieves cleaner is considered a green, eco-friendly cleaning product. It comes in concentrated form and must be diluted before use.
The concentrated formula can be added to water and used as an all-purpose cleaner for countertops, floors, toilets, etc. It can also be diffused for its aroma or taken internally.
Is Thieves Household Cleaner Safe for Quartz?
Thieves cleaner is generally considered safe for quartz countertops. When properly diluted, it should not damage or etch quartz surfaces.
However, there are a few precautions to take when using Thieves or any cleaner on quartz:
- Always dilute Thieves to the recommended ratio. Using too strong a concentration can damage surfaces.
- Spot test Thieves on an inconspicuous part of the quartz first. Check for any etching or change in appearance.
- Avoid excessive scrubbing. Use a soft sponge and gentle circular motions to clean. Scrubbing can dull quartz’s finish.
- Rinse surfaces thoroughly after cleaning. Don’t allow Thieves or any cleaner to sit on quartz for long periods.
- Use Thieves for regular cleaning. For tough stains, use a cleaner made specifically for stone/quartz.
- Consider resealing quartz periodically if using natural cleaners like Thieves. Sealing helps protect the surface.
Tips for Using Thieves on Quartz
Follow these tips to safely use Thieves household cleaner on quartz countertops:
- Always dilute Thieves to 1 part Thieves and 3 parts water. A higher concentration may damage quartz.
- Use a soft microfiber cloth or sponge when cleaning. Avoid abrasive scrub pads.
- Apply diluted Thieves and wipe gently using circular motions. Avoid aggressive scrubbing.
- Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and dry any excess water with a cloth.
- For best results, wipe the surface again with just water after using Thieves.
- Spot test on a small area first if unsure about using Thieves on a certain quartz color/finish.
- Clean up any spills of concentrated Thieves immediately to avoid potential etching.
- Consider resealing quartz every 1-2 years for added protection when using natural cleaners.
Reasons to Use Thieves Cleaner on Quartz
There are several benefits to using a natural cleaner like Thieves on quartz countertops:
Non-Toxic and Biodegradable – Thieves contains plant-based ingredients like essential oils and castile soap. It does not contain harsh chemicals found in many conventional cleaners.
Antibacterial Properties – The essential oils in Thieves, especially clove and cinnamon, have natural disinfecting abilities. Thieves can help sanitize kitchen surfaces.
Pleasant Scent – Users enjoy the spicy but refreshing scent from the botanical oils. It makes cleaning less unpleasant.
Streak-Free Clean – Thieves helps remove dirt, grease, and grime without heavy residue. Quartz surfaces stay clean and shiny after using it.
Environmentally Friendly – Thieves is biodegradable and better for the environment compared to chemical cleaners. The reusable glass bottle cuts down on plastic waste too.
Non-Etching Formula – When properly diluted, Thieves is safe for quartz and won’t damage the finish. It’s less risky than some harsh cleaners.
Potential Drawbacks of Using Thieves on Quartz
While Thieves cleaner is generally considered quartz-safe, there are a few potential drawbacks:
- May Require More Effort – Thieves may not cut through messes as quickly as chemical cleaners. Some extra scrubbing may be needed for tough stains.
- Can Leave Residue – The essential oils and soap in Thieves can leave behind a hazy film if the surface isn’t rinsed properly after cleaning.
- Possible Dulling Over Time – Long term use of any cleaner, including natural ones, may eventually dull quartz’s shine. Reconditioning is needed periodically.
- Not as Powerful as Stone Cleaners – For deep cleaning or removing etching, a stone-specific cleaner formulated for quartz may work better than a natural all-purpose option.
- May Require Occasional Resealing – To play it safe when using natural cleaners, consider resealing quartz every year or two to maintain protection.
- Higher Cost – Thieves cleaner tends to be more expensive than standard cleaning products. The reusable bottle helps offset this over time.
Thieves Household Cleaner FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about using Thieves household cleaner on quartz countertops:
Is it okay to use Thieves daily on my quartz countertops?
Yes, Thieves can be safely used for daily cleaning of quartz when properly diluted. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly and follow any other usage precautions from the manufacturer. Avoid overly frequent use of any cleaner to limit dulling over time. Consider alternating Thieves with other quartz-safe cleaners.
Can Thieves remove stains from quartz?
Thieves may help remove some minor staining from food, drinks, dirt, etc. when used consistently. However, for deep, stubborn stains, a stone cleaner or stain remover formulated for quartz will work better.
Does Thieves disinfect quartz countertops?
Yes, Thieves can disinfect quartz surfaces thanks to the antibacterial essential oils like clove, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary. Be sure to let the Thieves solution sit on quartz for a few minutes before rinsing to allow full disinfection.
Is it safe to use Thieves in a higher concentration than recommended on quartz?
No, you should always dilute Thieves to the recommended ratio for quartz countertops. Using too strong a concentration can damage the surface. Spot test if unsure.
Do I need to seal my quartz countertops if using Thieves cleaner?
Sealing is not necessary. But for added protection, consider applying a specialty quartz sealer every 1-2 years if using natural cleaners like Thieves frequently. Consult your countertop manufacturer.
What ratio of water to Thieves is best for quartz countertops?
Dilute Thieves using a 1:3 ratio – 1 part Thieves to 3 parts cool water. Always spot test the diluted solution on a small area first before overall use.
Conclusion
Thieves Household Cleaner can be safely used on quartz countertops with proper dilution and care. Its non-toxic, plant-based formula makes it a good eco-friendly option.
While Thieves may not tackle staining as well as quartz-specific cleaners, its antibacterial properties help keep kitchen surfaces clean and disinfected. With routine cleaning, Thieves helps maintain the shine and beauty of quartz countertops.
Taking precautions like spot testing, avoiding over-scrubbing, and diluting properly allows homeowners to enjoy the benefits of Thieves cleaner on resilient quartz surfaces. Pairing Thieves with occasional resealing and reconditioning provides the best maintenance routine for quartz countertops.