Quartz countertops are popular in many homes for their durability, aesthetic appeal, and ease of maintenance. However, keeping quartz looking its best requires using the right cleaners and techniques. Here’s an in-depth look at the best cleaners and methods for cleaning quartz countertops.
An Introduction to Quartz Countertops
Before diving into quartz countertop cleaning, it’s helpful to understand what quartz countertops are and what makes them different than other countertop materials.
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resin and pigments. The result is a durable, non-porous surface that resists scratches, stains, heat, and water damage.
Compared to natural stone like granite, quartz is more consistent in pattern and color since it’s manufactured. It’s also less prone to cracking and etching. Next to stainless steel, quartz is one of the lowest maintenance countertop materials.
However, quartz still requires regular cleaning to keep it looking pristine. Using the wrong cleaners or abrasive pads can damage the surface over time.
Benefits of Quartz Countertops
There are many reasons quartz countertops have become a popular choice for modern kitchens and bathrooms:
- Durability: Quartz surfaces are very hard and hold up well to heavy use. They resist scratches, cuts, and chips better than marble or granite.
- Low Maintenance: Compared to natural stone, quartz needs very little sealing or polishing. Simple cleaning keeps it looking like new for years.
- Stain Resistance: The non-porous surface makes quartz highly resistant to stains. However, some liquids can stain if left to sit.
- Heat Tolerance: Quartz can withstand brief exposure to heat up to 300°F without damage. However, prolonged direct heat should be avoided.
- Consistent Appearance: The engineered manufacturing process results in a very uniform, consistent pattern and coloring.
- Design Versatility: Quartz comes in a wide array of colors and patterns from minimal to bold. There are many edge profiles to choose from too.
- Hygienic Surface: Quartz does not harbor bacteria or pathogens like porous natural stone can.
How to Clean Quartz Countertops
Cleaning quartz countertops regularly is the best way to maintain their beauty and durability over time. Here are the recommended methods and cleaners to use:
Supplies Needed
- Soft sponge or microfiber cloth
- pH-neutral stone cleaner or mild dish soap
- Clean water
- Optional: Magic Eraser for stubborn stains
Avoid abrasive scouring pads, powders, or anything highly acidic or alkaline. Harsh cleaners can damage the surface and finish.
Daily Cleaning
A simple wipe down with a soft, damp cloth or sponge is sufficient for day-to-day cleaning. Most messes like crumbs, coffee rings, or water spots come right up. For stuck-on dirt or grease, use a stone cleaner, mild dish soap, or baking soda and water mixture.
Some specific tips:
- Rinse the surface after cleaning to remove any soapy residue.
- Disinfect occasionally with a diluted bleach or vinegar solution to kill germs.
- Use a scraper to remove any hardened food or gum. Avoid metal scrapers which could scratch.
- For water spots, wipe with a cloth dampened with lemon juice or vinegar.
- Dry any spills or cleaning solution right away to avoid mineral deposits.
Deep Cleaning
For a more thorough periodic cleaning, use a specially formulated quartz cleaner to remove built-up grime, restore shine, and sanitize the surface. Products like Method Daily Granite and StoneTech Revitalizer Cleaner are non-abrasive and safe for routine use.
Apply the cleaner to the quartz with a damp sponge or cloth. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes. Scrub gently and rinse well. Avoid using too much pressure which could dull the finish.
For severely dirty areas like around the stove, sprinkle some baking soda as a light abrasive scrub. Rub gently with a damp sponge and rinse.
Finish by drying the countertop thoroughly to prevent any cleaning product residue.
Sanitizing and Disinfecting
To kill germs and bacteria, clean quartz surfaces periodically with:
- Vinegar solution: Mix 1 cup white vinegar with 1 cup water. Wipe surface with a cloth soaked in solution. No need to rinse.
- Bleach solution: Mix 1/3 cup bleach into 1 gallon of water. Apply sparingly to the quartz and allow to sit 5-10 minutes before rinsing. Never mix vinegar and bleach solutions together as toxic fumes can result.
- Hydrogen peroxide: Use 3% solution, wiping liberally onto the quartz surface. Let sit 20-30 minutes before a final rinse. Has natural disinfectant properties.
Be aware prolonged exposure to bleach or vinegar could eventually dull the finish of quartz. Limit contact time and use infrequently.
Tips for Problem Areas
- Dried food deposits: Allow warm, soapy water to sit on the area for several minutes to soften. Then scrape off gently with a plastic putty knife. Avoid metal scrapers.
- Oil/grease stains: Immediately cover the stain with baking soda or cornstarch to absorb excess oil. Let sit an hour before scrubbing and rinsing.
- Wine, coffee, or fruit juice stains: Clean right away with diluted vinegar or lemon juice. For stubborn organic stains, use hydrogen peroxide, letting it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing.
- Hard water spots: Dampen a cloth with white vinegar and allow to sit on the spots for several minutes before scrubbing. Rinse with clean water.
- Etch marks: These light abrasions in the finish can’t be removed, but occasionally treating with a quartz polish/cleaner can minimize their appearance. Take care to avoid etching by using cutting boards and pot holders.
What Not to Do When Cleaning Quartz
There are also some important don’ts when it comes to keeping quartz pristine:
- Skip the window cleaner – chemicals like ammonia can damage the finish.
- Don’t use abrasive scrub pads or abrasive powder cleansers which can scratch.
- Avoid scrubbing too hard in one spot which can dull the surface.
- Don’t allow spills of strong liquids like nail polish remover or paint thinner to sit – wipe immediately.
- Don’t place hot pans directly on quartz. Always use a trivet.
- Steer clear of harsh alkaline cleaners like oven cleaner.
- Avoid cleaning in direct sunlight which can lead to drying and streaking.
Best Quartz Countertop Cleaning Products
There are a variety of specialty cleaners and polishes made specifically for engineered quartz surfaces. Here are some top products to consider:
- Weiman Quartz Cleaner and Polish – cleans, shines, and seals
- Method Daily Granite – non-toxic stone cleaner
- StoneTech Revitalizer Cleaner and Protector – formulated for quartz
- Hope’s Perfect Countertop – plant-based, streak-free
- Black Diamond Stoneworks Quartz Cleaner – cleans and deodorizes
- Granite Gold Daily Cleaner – spray, don’t rinse formula
Avoid general cleaners like Windex or 409. Dish soap works in a pinch but frequent use can strip quartz’s protective coating. Investing in a specialty quartz cleaner helps maintain flawless results safely.
Simple Quartz Countertop Maintenance Tips
With regular cleaning and by taking some preventative measures, quartz countertops will stay looking like new for decades:
- Always use cutting boards, trivets and pot holders to avoid direct knife or hot pan contact.
- Clean up spills immediately before they have a chance to soak in or stain.
- Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for your specific brand of quartz.
- Reseal quartz every 1-2 years with a quartz polish/sealer like TriNova Granite Sealer.
- Avoid placing toiletry products directly on quartz as they can stain over time.
- Use a tray or placemat rather than setting wet glasses down.
- Keep quartz away from direct sunlight which can cause fading.
Following these simple quartz countertop care guidelines and using the right gentle cleaners is the recipe for sparkling, long-lasting results! Consult a quartz care guide for more tips.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Many homeowners have additional questions about the best way to clean and care for quartz countertops. Here are answers to some of the most common questions:
Is it okay to use vinegar or lemon juice on quartz?
Yes, dilute vinegar or lemon juice makes an effective cleaner to dissolve grime and hard water buildup on quartz. Avoid prolonged exposure to acids which could eventually dull the finish. Rinse surfaces well after cleaning.
How do you remove dried-on food or grease?
For stuck-on messes, let warm soapy water soak on the area for several minutes. You can cover the spot with baking soda or a quartz poultice to help draw out the stain. Gently scrape off any remaining debris with a plastic scraper. Avoid abrasive scrubbing which can damage the finish.
Should quartz countertops be sealed?
Sealing is not necessary for maintenance but can help add protection from stains. Use a quartz-specific sealer like TriNova Granite Sealer every 1-2 years. Avoid flammable sealers containing VOCs.
How can you remove hard water spots?
Hard water deposits can be treated by spraying white vinegar directly onto the spots. Let sit 5-10 minutes before scrubbing with a damp cloth and rinsing clean. This may need to be repeated for stubborn buildup.
Is a Magic Eraser safe for cleaning quartz?
Yes, Magic Erasers can be used to remove some tough stains from quartz surfaces. Dampen the pad first and use gentle pressure to avoid scratching. Spot test first. The melamine foam is a mild abrasive so don’t overuse.
What’s the best way to sanitize a quartz countertop?
To properly disinfect quartz, use a diluted bleach solution. Mix 1/3 cup bleach into 1 gallon of water and wipe onto the surface. Allow to sit 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Vinegar solutions can also provide effective sanitizing.
How can you remove oil stains from quartz?
Absorb excess oil immediately with baking soda or cornstarch. Allow to sit for an hour before scrubbing away the residue with quartz cleaner and water. For tough grease stains, spray with a degreasing cleaner like Formula 409 before wiping clean with a soft cloth.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning and prompt treatment of spills keeps quartz countertops looking pristine for years. Using non-abrasive quartz-safe cleaners and avoiding harsh chemicals maintains the surface and finish. With the right gentle care, quartz countertops can stay looking flawless and avoid damage.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s care recommendations for your specific quartz brand and finish. Consulting a detailed quartz cleaning guide provides additional tips for maintenance. With routine cleaning and by immediately treating any stains or spills, quartz countertops will retain their beauty while withstanding daily wear and tear.