Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, many homeowners wonder what can and cannot be placed on quartz surfaces. Here is a comprehensive guide on what you can put on quartz countertops.
An Overview of Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The result is a highly durable, non-porous surface that resists scratches, stains, and heat.
Unlike natural stone, quartz does not need to be sealed. It is also more consistent in color and pattern than natural materials. Quartz offers the look of stone with excellent resistance to everyday wear and tear. This makes it an ideal choice for busy kitchens and baths.
What You Can Safely Put on Quartz Countertops
The simple answer is that most everyday items are perfectly safe on quartz. Here are some specifics:
Hot Pans and Bakeware
Quartz can withstand brief exposure to temperatures up to 300°F without issue. Therefore, you can place hot pans, casserole dishes straight from the oven, and other heated cookware on quartz. Prolonged direct heat could potentially damage the surface, however. Using trivets or hot pads is recommended to prevent excess heat buildup.
Cutting Boards
Cutting, chopping, and slicing directly on a quartz countertop will not harm it. The material is highly scratch-resistant. Using a cutting board can help protect the surface from knives leaving behind cut marks over time.
Appliances
You can safely place small appliances like coffee makers, stand mixers, and blenders directly on quartz. The weight limit varies by thickness, but most quartz countertops can support 100+ pounds per square foot. Just avoid dragging appliances across the surface to prevent scuffing.
Fruits, Vegetables, Meat
Quartz counters are nonporous, so juices and oils will not stain or soak in like natural stone. Feel free to prep ingredients directly on quartz surfaces without worry. Simply wipe up spills when you are done.
Soap and Cleansers
Quartz stands up well to common household cleaners. You can wipe the countertop down with soapy water, alcohol, glass cleaner, or granite/stone cleanser without concern. Avoid harsh chemicals like paint removers.
Vases and Decor
The quartz surface can support the weight of vases, bowls, candles, and other decorative items. Use trivets or coasters under very heavy objects to prevent excessive pressure points. Avoid abrasive or sharp bottom edges that could scratch.
What to Avoid Putting on Quartz
There are a few limitations on what quartz countertops can handle:
Prolonged Direct Heat
While quartz is heat resistant, leaving extremely hot pans or appliances in one spot for a long time can potentially damage the resin binders. Use trivets and periodically move items to keep temperatures moderated.
Excessive Force or Weight
Avoid subjecting quartz surfaces to heavy impacts that could chip the edges. Do not stand or sit on the countertop. Very heavy objects may cause cracks over time.
Abrasive Cleansers and Pads
Quartz’s polish can become damaged from harsh scrubbing or chemicals. Avoid scouring pads, powders, oven cleaners, and alkaline drain openers.
Prolonged Moisture Exposure
While routine spills are no problem, allowing excess water to puddle can dull quartz’s shine. Always wipe up wet areas and spills to keep the surface looking its best. Avoid leaving damp sponges, cloths, wiping pads etc sitting on the surface.
Superheated Quartz
In rare cases, setting very hot cookware in one spot for an extended time can superheat the quartz and actually scorch the surface. Avoid focusing high heat in a single area for a long duration.
With proper care, quartz provides an extremely durable and worry-free countertop surface that can withstand nearly anything you need to do in your kitchen or bath. Following basic precautions will help your quartz counters maintain their beauty for many years. Be sure to thoroughly research care and maintenance when selecting your quartz to enjoy lasting good looks.
FAQs About What You Can Place on Quartz Countertops
Can you cut on quartz countertops?
Yes, quartz holds up extremely well to cutting and food prep. Using a cutting board will help maintain the pristine look over many years of use.
Does quartz stain from wine or coffee?
No, quartz resists stains from liquids including wine, coffee, juice, oils, and dyes thanks to its nonporous structure. Promptly wipe up spills for best results.
Can you place a crockpot on a quartz countertop?
Yes, a crockpot can safely sit on quartz while cooking. Use trivets or hot pads underneath to prevent excess concentrated heat on the surface.
Is it OK to knead dough on a quartz countertop?
Absolutely, you can safely knead dough and roll pastries directly on quartz without worry of damaging the durable material.
Can you put a griddle on a quartz kitchen countertop?
While brief contact with a griddle is ok, prolonged intense direct heat could potentially damage the resin binders in quartz. Use trivets or only keep griddles on the surface while actively cooking.
Can you put a microwave on a quartz countertop?
Yes, quartz can easily hold the weight of a microwave or other small appliances. Avoid dragging them across the surface to prevent scratching.
Does bleach damage quartz countertops?
No, quartz can tolerate occasional exposure to diluted bleach or disinfecting wipes without issue. Avoid prolonged contact and never use undiluted bleach, which could damage the finish.
Conclusion
One of the best features of quartz countertops is their incredible durability and stain resistance compared to other surfaces. Nearly any item from hot pans to cutting boards to appliances can be safely placed on quartz without worry. Simple precautions like using trivets for extremely hot cookware and wiping spills quickly can help maintain quartz’s pristine good looks for decades. Just avoid subjecting your quartz counters to excessive force, abrasives, or concentrated high heat. With routine care, quartz provides a worry-free, highly functional surface able to handle the hustle and bustle of daily kitchen and bath use.