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The Spruce / Kevin Norris
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The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Quartz is one of the most popular stone materials for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Not only are quartz countertops gorgeous, they are non-porous and fairly resistant to heat and scratches. Although these traits make quartz countertops especially durable, even this material requires an occasional deep clean to maintain the finish and keep the surface sanitary.
Here are three simple steps to clean your quartz countertops and keep them in their best shape for the long haul.
How to Clean Quartz Countertops
The Spruce / Ana Cadena
‘ title=”Wiping down counters with a wet cloth”>
The Spruce / Ana Cadena
- Wipe the countertops down with a dry microfiber cloth. Since quartz countertops are relatively low-maintenance, wiping down your counters on a regular basis with a dry microfiber cloth is a simple habit that will help you keep them clean on a daily basis. For a more thorough clean, move onto the steps below.
- Use a mild dish detergent, warm water, and a cloth or non-abrasive sponge to lift any stuck-on grime from your countertops. In many cases, the combination of water and cloth alone is enough to remove dried liquids and other substances from your countertop. However, it's important to use a few drops of a gentle detergent as well to ensure the surface area is sanitary.
- Wipe down the surface area thoroughly with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any remaining dirt, soap, and water. This will prevent any leftover streaks and keep your countertops looking clean and pristine.
- For an added layer of protection, finish your cleaning process with a quartz polish. There are many manufacturers of quartz countertops that can sell or recommend a polish uniquely designed for this type of stone. These polishes typically provide an additional disinfectant, can buff out light scratches, and some even include UV protection to prevent fading or discoloration from sun exposure.
Warning
Most dish soaps will clean your countertops well, but make sure that the ingredient list does not include harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and even lemon juice, as these can damage quartz.
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How to Remove Stains From Quartz Countertops
Quartz is generally considered a stain-resistant stone, but it is not entirely stainproof. Certain substances like coffee, wine, beets, and permanent marker may discolor your countertops if left unaddressed. For this reason, it's important to clean spills as soon as they occur, but if you notice a surprise stain, there are ways to remove it.
Most experts recommend a solution of watered down rubbing alcohol as an effective and safe stain remover for quartz countertops. Add a tablespoon or two of rubbing alcohol to a spray bottle of warm water (you can add a few drops of dish soap for an extra cleaning boost) and spray the stain liberally. Gently scrub the surface with a nonabrasive sponge until the stain begins to fade. Wipe down the surface with a dry microfiber cloth to finish.
Additional Tips to Keep Your Quartz Countertops Clean
The Spruce / Ana Cadena
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The Spruce / Ana Cadena
- Invest in a polish designed for quartz to protect your countertops and maintain their glossy finish.
- Wipe down your countertops with a damp cloth after each use. This will prevent potential scratches and stains.
- Keep your countertops clear of excessive decor and clutter as much as you're able, to make wiping down the surface simpler and to prevent accidental scratches.
Cleaning Quartz Countertops: Dos and Don'ts
- Do clean spills as soon as they occur. This will help prevent discoloring and maintain the countertop's glossy finish.
- Do use a gentle cleaner such as a mild dish detergent to clean your quartz countertops.
- Do wipe down your countertops daily with a microfiber cloth. If possible, wipe down the surface after each use.
- Do use a quartz polish to help protect your countertops.
- Don't use abrasive cleaners like steel wool.
- Don't cut food and vegetables directly on your countertop. When using sharp knives, always use a cutting board to protect your quartz counters.
- Don't use harsh or acidic cleaning solutions, such as those containing bleach, lemon juice, vinegar, or ammonia.
- Don't set hot mugs, pots, or pans directly on your counters. Although quartz countertops are fairly heat-resistant, use hot pads, trivets, and coasters to protect the stone.
- Don't sit or stand on your countertops or even placing heavy objects on them, as the weight could crack the stone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to use Windex on quartz countertops?
While Windex can be an effective cleaner for your quartz countertops in small quantities, the solution's high pH may cause discoloration over time. As a result, experts suggest you opt for a mild dish detergent over Windex as a cleaner for quartz.
Can you use paper towels on quartz?
Yes, you can use paper towels, damp or dry, to clean your quartz countertops. Paper towels can serve as a substitute for microfiber cloths, although they may not be as durable if you're attempting to remove stuck-on debris.
Is Magic Eraser safe on quartz?
Yes, you can use Magic Eraser on quartz. In fact, some experts suggest Magic Erasers as a means of removing stains from quartz.
Read Next: Cleaning Tips for 6 Types of Stone Countertops
Read the original article on The Spruce.
