Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, stain resistance, and attractive appearance. However, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential to keeping quartz looking its best. Here is an extensive guide on the best practices for cleaning quartz countertops.
Do Quartz Countertops Need to Be Sealed?
Unlike granite or marble, quartz does not need to be regularly sealed. The resin used to make engineered quartz makes it non-porous and prevents stains from penetrating the surface. This makes quartz naturally stain-resistant without the need for sealing.
Routine Cleaning and Care for Quartz
- Use a mild pH-neutral cleaner or stone soap and warm water for regular cleaning. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can dull the surface.
- Rinse the surface thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residue.
- Blot spills immediately to prevent stains – do not let liquids sit.
- For dried spills, use a non-abrasive scrubbing sponge or soft cloth with your regular cleaner.
- Avoid exposing quartz to excessive heat. Always use a trivet or hot pad under hot pans, baking sheets, etc.
How to Remove Stubborn Stains and Marks on Quartz
Quartz is quite stain resistant, but accidents happen. Here are tips for removing some common stains:
Oil-based stains like grease or food residue
- Mix a mild degreasing detergent like Dawn dish soap with warm water. Apply to the stain and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the stain. Rinse well and dry.
- For dried on stains, cover with baking soda and let sit overnight. Wipe clean the next day.
Water spots and mineral deposits
- Make a paste with baking soda and water. Rub gently onto the stain.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
- For stubborn buildup, use a store-bought calcium/limestone remover designed for stone.
Marker or permanent ink stains
- Apply rubbing alcohol to the stain and let sit for a few minutes.
- Scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or magic eraser.
- Rinse thoroughly afterwards. Oils in the alcohol can leave residue if not rinsed well.
Hard water stains
- Make a paste with baking soda and water and apply to the stained area.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing with a soft cloth or sponge.
- Rinse thoroughly afterwards and dry.
Etch marks from acidic substances
- Quartz can be etched by highly acidic substances like vinegar, lemon juice and harsh cleaners.
- Use a store-bought stone polish to reduce the appearance of etching. Rub small amounts of polish on the affected area using circular motions.
- Avoid cleaners with high acidity to prevent future etch marks.
Daily and Weekly Cleaning Checklist
- Daily: Simply wipe down with a soft, damp microfiber cloth. Dry with a clean cloth.
- Weekly: Clean with a ph-balanced quartz cleaner and rinse well. Inspect closely while cleaning for any stains to spot treat.
- Monthly: In addition to your weekly routine, clean with baking soda if you notice any mineral deposit buildup. Mix baking soda and water into a spreadable paste.
Deep Cleaning Quartz Counters
For a more thorough periodic cleaning:
- Mix 1/4 cup of a degreaser like Simple Green with warm water in a spray bottle. Spray the quartz surface and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Use a soft scrub sponge or microfiber cloth to gently scrub the entire surface.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a fresh cloth.
- Finish by spraying glass cleaner onto a paper towel and wiping down for added shine and fingerprint removal.
Maintaining the Beauty of Your Quartz
- Use trivets and hot pads under hot objects to prevent burns.
- Clean up spills quickly to avoid stains.
- Avoid exposure to strong chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners etc.
- Consider using a cutting board instead of chopping directly on the counter.
- Don’t use abrasive scrub pads or powders which can wear the finish.
What to Avoid on Quartz Countertops
- No acidic or abrasive cleaners like bleach, sodium hydroxide, hydrofluoric acid, acetone etc.
- No harsh scrubbing pads – stick to soft sponges and microfiber.
- Avoid exposing to heat over 300°F to prevent damage.
- Don’t cut food directly on the counter without a cutting board.
FAQs about Cleaning Quartz Countertops
How often should quartz countertops be cleaned?
- Quartz should be cleaned once or twice a week with a mild soap and water. Daily wiping down with a damp cloth also helps keep them clean in between deep cleanings.
Can you use vinegar to clean quartz?
- Avoid vinegar or other acidic cleaners which can etch and dull quartz over time. Use a ph-neutral stone cleaner instead.
What removes stains from quartz?
- For most stains, a mild cleaner mixed with warm water should remove them with gentle scrubbing. For dried or stubborn stains, use a baking soda paste or degreasing detergent. Acetone can also remove some difficult stains.
Can you use bleach on quartz?
- No, avoid bleach and abrasive chemicals on quartz counters. The harsh chemicals can damage and discolor the surface. Always use a ph-neutral stone cleaner instead.
What is the best quartz countertop cleaner?
- Look for a ph-balanced stone soap concentrate to mix with water for routine cleaning. Popular options include Method Daily Granite Cleaner, StoneTech Revitalizer Cleaner and Black Diamond Stoneworks Quartz Cleaner.
How do you polish quartz countertops?
- Use a store-bought quartz polish/cleaner and rub in circular motions with a soft cloth to maintain the shine. Avoid wax or DIY polish mixtures which can leave residue. Light buffing can help reduce small scratches.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning and prompt stain removal are key to keeping quartz countertops looking like new. Always use ph-balanced cleaners and soft scrubbing pads – harsh chemicals and abrasive pads can damage the surface. With the proper care, quartz countertops are an extremely low-maintenance and durable surface that can stay looking beautiful for decades. Be sure to clean up spills quickly, avoid direct heat exposure, and limit abrasive scrubbing to get the longest lifespan out of your quartz counters.