Avoid Abrasive Cleaners and Pads
Quartz is very hard and Scrubbing too aggressively with abrasive cleaners or pads can permanently dull or scratch the surface. Steer clear of:
- Scouring powders like Comet or Bar Keepers Friend
- Magic erasers
- Steel wool pads
- Abrasive cleaning tools like rough sponges or brushes
The tiny scratches caused by abrasives make the countertop more prone to collecting dirt and bacteria in the future. For routine cleaning, stick to soft cloths, sponges, or paper towels.
Don’t Use Vinegar or Harsh Acids
While vinegar can be fine for cleaning some types of natural stone, it’s too acidic for quartz. Chemical cleaners with high acidity levels will etch and corrode quartz over time, causing permanent damage. Avoid:
- Vinegar
- Citrus cleaners
- Tile cleaners containing hydrofluoric or phosphoric acid
- Bathroom cleaners like CLR
Vinegar and acidic cleaners will cause the glossy sheen of your quartz to become dull and faded. For stubborn stains, use a mild alkali-based cleaner specifically formulated for quartz.
Skip the Bleach and Ammonia
Bleach and cleaners containing ammonia are too harsh for routine use on quartz surfaces. With repeated use over time, these chemicals will pit and erode the coating that gives quartz its beautiful polished finish. You’ll eventually be left with an uneven, porous surface.
Don’t Use Solvent-Based Cleaners
Solvent-based cleaners like lacquer thinner, gasoline, paint remover, and nail polish remover will all damage quartz countertops. These types of cleaners will dissolve the resin used to bind quartz particles together. The countertop will become rough and uneven where the resin has been eaten away.
Avoid Leaving Cleaners to Soak
Don’t allow any cleaners, even mild ones specifically designed for quartz, to puddle or soak on the countertop. Always wipe up excess moisture to prevent possible pitting or erosion from prolonged chemical exposure.
Steer Clear of Oils and Grease
Cooking oils, grease splatters, and residues left by hand creams or lotions will stain quartz if left to sit. Always clean up food prep messes and spills right away using a mild soap and water. For stubborn grease stains, use a degreasing cleaner made for quartz. Avoid harsh solvents.
Don’t Use Windex or Glass Cleaners
The waxy finish that gives quartz its polished sheen can be stripped away by ammonia-based glass cleaners. Use a pH-neutral cleaner instead. Stay away from multi-surface cleaners containing ammonia. Read labels carefully and look for “safe for quartz” assurances.
Avoid Excessive Heat
While quartz is heat resistant compared to other countertop materials, excessive direct heat can still cause damage. Always use trivets or hot pads when placing hot pans, baking sheets, or appliances on quartz. The thermal shock of extremely high temperatures can cause microscopic cracks and fissures.
Don’t Use Paint Remover
Paint removers and strippers contain harsh chemicals like methylene chloride that will mar, pit, and discolor quartz surfaces. If you do get paint on your quartz countertops while redecorating, allow it to dry completely then gently peel it away. Avoid scrubbing or scraping forcefully.
Important Tips for Cleaning Quartz Countertops
- Use mild soap and water for daily cleaning
- Blot spills quickly to prevent stains
- Disinfect with soft cloths and mild non-abrasive cleaners
- Avoid harsh chemicals and acidic or alkaline cleaners
- Always use trivets and cutting boards to protect the surface
- Reseal quartz every 1-2 years with a penetrating quartz sealer
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thing to clean quartz countertops?
For routine cleaning, use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth with warm water and mild soap. For stubborn stains, use a specially formulated quartz cleaner.
How do you remove stains from quartz?
Light stains can be removed with baking soda and water into a paste. For tougher stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner made specifically for quartz. Avoid excessive scrubbing and let the cleaner sit for 5 minutes before wiping away.
What should you not use on quartz?
Avoid vinegar, lemon juice, abrasive pads, scouring powder, bleach, ammonia, acids, alkalis, glass cleaner, solvents, and any harsh chemicals. These can etch, pit, or dull the surface.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
It’s not mandatory, but sealing quartz every 1-2 years will make cleaning and maintenance easier. Look for a penetrating sealer formulated specifically for quartz.
Can you use rubbing alcohol to clean quartz?
No, avoid rubbing alcohol. It can dull the shiny finish of quartz and repeated use causes discoloration. For disinfecting, use a mild non-abrasive cleaner approved for use on quartz.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops offer durability paired with a beautiful polished look. Keep them damage-free by being careful about which cleaners come into contact with the surface. Avoid anything too acidic, alkaline, or abrasive that could etch or scratch the quartz. With the proper gentle care and cleaning, your quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years.