Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for modern kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, while quartz is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, it still requires regular cleaning to keep it looking its best. Here is a detailed guide on how to properly clean quartz countertops.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, are made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The resins bind the quartz together to form a hard, non-porous surface.
The main benefits of quartz countertops are:
- Extremely durable – resistant to scratches, stains, heat, and impacts
- Low maintenance – does not require sealing or polishing
- Hygienic – does not harbor bacteria
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
- Heat and scratch resistant
Compared to natural stone like granite, quartz requires very little maintenance to keep clean and undamaged.
Routine Cleaning of Quartz Countertops
Here are the recommended cleaning methods for routine maintenance of quartz countertops:
1. Mild Soap and Water
For regular cleaning, a mild soap diluted in warm water is usually sufficient. Dish soap or a stone cleaner are good options. Use a soft cloth or sponge to clean the surface. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. This helps prevent water spots or mineral buildup.
2. Disinfecting Cleaners
For a deeper clean, use a disinfecting cleaner made specifically for stone surfaces. These contain mild detergents and antimicrobial ingredients to sanitize the quartz.
Spray the disinfectant over the surface and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before wiping away. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.
3. Baking Soda Paste
For cleaning tough stains or residue, make a paste with baking soda and water. Gently rub the paste over the affected area using a soft cloth or sponge. Let it sit for 5 minutes before rinsing.
Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can break down stubborn dirt and stains without damaging the quartz.
What Not to Use on Quartz Countertops
Here are some cleaners and substances to avoid using on quartz:
- Vinegar – acidic cleaners can dull and etch quartz surfaces
- Harsh chemicals – including bleach, ammonia, or alkali-based cleaners
- Abrasive powders – comet, bar keepers friend, etc.
- Abrasive pads – scouring pads, steel wool, etc.
- Hot pans – use trivets to protect quartz from excessive heat
Acidic or harsh alkaline cleaners can damage the resin binders while abrasives can scratch the surface.
Tips for Cleaning Quartz Countertops
- Clean spills immediately to prevent stains settling into the surface
- Use coasters under glasses and wipe the area dry after use
- Disinfect kitchen quartz regularly with a stone cleaner
- Avoid using knives or cutting directly on the quartz
- Use trivets when placing hot pots or pans from the stove or oven.
- Reseal quartz every 1-2 years with a penetrating sealer to add extra protection
How to Remove Difficult Stains from Quartz
For stubborn stains that soap and water cannot remove, try these techniques:
Grease or Oil Stains: Use a degreasing cleaner like Formula 409 or mix baking soda and dish soap into a paste. Let it sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
Dried Food Stains: Soak the area with hot water to soften the food residue, then use a plastic scraper to gently lift the food off. Wipe clean with dish soap.
Wine, Coffee, or Fruit Juice Stains: Clean as soon as possible with dish soap and water. For dried stains, spray with hydrogen peroxide and let bubble for 5 minutes before wiping clean.
Hard Water Marks: Make a paste with baking soda and water and scrub marks gently. Rinse thoroughly afterwards. Vinegar can also help remove hard water stains.
Dried Candle Wax: Place a paper towel over the wax and run an iron on low heat to melt it. The wax will transfer to the paper. Clean any oily residue left behind with dish soap.
Ink or Marker Stains: Clean immediately while wet with rubbing alcohol. For dried stains, spray hairspray and let it sit for 5 minutes before wiping clean with a soft cloth.
Etch Marks: These appear as rough, cloudy patches on the quartz. Try rubbing a compound polish to reduce the appearance of light etch marks. Severe etching may require professional resurfacing.
When to Call a Professional
It’s best to call a professional quartz fabricator or stone restoration company for:
- Deep scratches or nicks that damage the surface
- Severely etched or damaged areas of quartz
- Hard water or calcium deposits that cannot be removed
- Resealing services every 1-2 years to maintain protection
Professionals have specialized tools, polishers, and sealants that can restore damaged quartz countertops. For the most thorough clean, they can also provide deep cleaning services for quartz surfaces.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops are low-maintenance, but still require regular cleaning to keep them looking pristine. For routine cleaning, mild soap and water is all that is needed. For tougher stains, use non-abrasive cleaners designed specifically for stone. Avoid acidic or harsh alkaline cleaners that can damage quartz. With proper care, quartz countertops will stay beautiful for many years.