Quartz countertops are hugely popular in kitchens and bathrooms thanks to their durability, easy maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, like any countertop material, quartz requires proper care and cleaning to keep it looking pristine. When choosing cleaning products for quartz, it’s important to use only recommended cleaners that are safe for the material. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you can and cannot use on quartz countertops.
What to Use on Quartz Countertops
pH Neutral Cleaners
The best type of cleaners to use on quartz countertops are pH neutral cleaners. Quartz is resistant to acids and bases, but prolonged exposure can damage the surface over time. pH neutral cleaners have a pH between 6 and 8, making them safe for routine cleaning of quartz. Some popular options include:
- Seventh Generation All-Purpose Cleaner
- Method All-Purpose Natural Surface Cleaner
- Mrs. Meyer’s Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner
- Babyganics Multi-Surface Cleaner
Always check the product label to confirm it is pH neutral before using. Stay away from acidic or alkaline cleaners.
Dish Soap and Warm Water
A mild detergent like dish soap and warm water is a simple everyday quartz cleaner. Dish soap cuts through oil and grease, while the warm water helps dissolve dirt and grime. Use a soft sponge or cloth and avoid abrasive scrubbing. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft towel.
Hydrogen Peroxide
As a mild disinfectant, hydrogen peroxide is safe for cleaning quartz countertops. It helps remove stains from food, beverages, and minerals in water. Make a solution of 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 4 parts water and wipe down the counters with a soft cloth. Rinse after 5 minutes with clean water.
Rubbing Alcohol
To sanitize quartz and eliminate bacteria without damaging the surface, use a 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol solution. Pour some on a soft cloth and wipe the countertop. Allow the alcohol to sit for 5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. This helps kill germs and viruses.
Water with Mild Soap
For routine quartz cleaning, use warm water with a small amount of mild soap, such as liquid hand soap or dish detergent. Apply it with a soft sponge, cloth or non-abrasive scrub pad. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft microfiber towel to prevent water spots. Avoid harsh soaps, which can strip the sealer.
Microfiber Cloths
Microfiber cloths are ideal for wiping quartz down after cleaning. Their ultra-fine fibers trap and absorb liquids without leaving lint or streaks. Use damp microfiber cloths to remove soap residue and dry microfiber cloths for a spotless shine. They can reach into crevices and are machine-washable.
What Not to Use on Quartz
Vinegar
While vinegar is commonly touted as a natural cleaner, it is too acidic for quartz surfaces. Prolonged use of vinegar can pit, corrode and dull the finish of quartz countertops. Even for stubborn stains, avoid vinegar or citrus-based cleaners.
Abrasive Cleaners
Never use abrasive cleaners on quartz countertops. Products containing abrasives like scrubbing powders, scouring pads or polishes can scratch and damage the surface. Quartz is durable but not immune to scratches from harsh cleaners.
Bleach-Based Cleaners
Avoid chlorine bleach and cleaners containing bleach like Comet or Ajax. The chlorine in bleach can react with quartz and fade or yellow the surface over time. For tougher stain removal, use hydrogen peroxide as a safer option.
Oven Cleaners
Powerful degreasers like oven cleaners should never be used on quartz. They can quickly deteriorate the finish. Stick to milder cleaning solutions safe for quartz. If there is a persistent grease stain, use a small amount of degreasing dish soap.
Window Cleaners
Most window cleaners like Windex contain ammonia, which can stain and pit quartz surfaces. The same goes for any cleaners with alcohol or solvents. Use rubbing alcohol sparingly and rinse immediately. For glass-like shine, use only quartz-safe products.
Scouring Pads
Stay away from abrasive scouring pads on quartz. Wire brushes, steel wool, and abrasive scrub pads can easily mark and scratch quartz. Use only soft cloths, sponges and plastic scrub pads recommended for non-scratch cleaning.
In summary, read all product labels carefully and stick to pH neutral cleaners or mild dish soap and water. Avoid vinegar, bleach, oven cleaners, acids, alcohol, scouring pads and anything abrasive. With the right gentle cleaners and soft tools, quartz countertops can maintain their beauty for years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Can I use rubbing alcohol to disinfect my quartz?
Yes, you can use 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol to disinfect quartz surfaces. Pour some on a soft cloth and wipe the counters. Allow the alcohol to sit for 5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water. Avoid excessive rubbing.
What’s the best way to get water spots off my quartz?
Use a damp microfiber cloth and a little bit of dish soap. Apply to the water spots and let sit for 5 minutes before gently rubbing off. Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft towel. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
How do I get dried food stains out of my quartz countertop?
For dried food stains, make a paste of baking soda and water and gently rub onto the stain using a soft cloth or sponge. Let it sit for 5 minutes before rinsing and drying the area thoroughly. Repeat as needed for tough stains.
Can I use bleach to clean my quartz countertops?
No, avoid using bleach or bleach-containing cleaners like Comet on quartz surfaces. The chlorine in bleach can react with quartz and fade or discolor it over time with repeated use. Use hydrogen peroxide as a safer alternative.
What’s the best way to polish my quartz countertops?
You don’t need to polish quartz countertops. Simply use a pH neutral cleaner or dish soap and water to clean. Use a microfiber cloth to dry and buff the surface to restore shine. Avoid polishes and waxes that may contain abrasives.
How can I get grease stains out of my quartz countertop?
For grease stains, apply a small amount of degreasing dish soap and work it into the stain with a soft sponge or cloth. Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Use a microfiber cloth to remove any residual soap and dry the area. Avoid harsh chemical degreasers.
Conclusion
Quartz offers a low-maintenance, yet stylish countertop option, as long as you care for it properly. Sticking to pH neutral cleaners, dish soap, hydrogen peroxide and soft clothes/sponges will keep quartz counters looking like new. Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, bleach, vinegar, and polishes. With regular gentle cleaning, quartz countertops can stay beautiful for many years before a professional deep cleanse is needed. Be sure to read product labels closely and test new cleaners on an inconspicuous spot first. With the proper care, quartz countertops are an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms that get frequent use.