Quartz countertops are popular among homeowners due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. Not to mention, cleaning quartz countertops is a breeze compared to other countertop materials. However, like any surface in your home, they require regular cleaning to keep them looking their best. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to clean quartz countertops.
Steps to Clean Quartz Countertops
- The first step to cleaning quartz countertops is to remove any loose dirt or debris from the surface. You can do this by wiping down your countertops with a soft cloth or sponge and warm water. This will help remove any dust, food crumbs, or other debris that may have accumulated on the surface. For tougher stains, you may need to use mild soap or a non-abrasive cleaner for quartz countertops. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the surface of your countertops.
- Once you’ve applied the cleaner to the surface, use a soft-bristled brush or non-abrasive sponge to scrub away any stains or spills gently.
- Be sure to rinse the area thoroughly with water after cleaning to remove any leftover cleaner or residue.
- Finally, dry the surface of your quartz countertops with a clean, soft cloth or paper towel to prevent water spots from forming.
How Do You Keep Quartz Countertops Clean and Shiny?
While regular cleaning is important for keeping your quartz countertops looking their best, a deep clean is necessary every once in a while. You can take a few additional steps to maintain their shine and prevent damage over time.
- Wipe up spills as soon as they occur to prevent stains from setting in. Quartz is a non-porous material, which means that it’s resistant to stains and spills. However, if you let a spill sit on the surface for too long, it can still leave a mark. To prevent this, be sure to wipe up spills as soon as they occur.
- Use coasters and placemats under glasses, plates, and other objects to prevent scratches and stains. While quartz is a durable material, it’s not completely scratch-resistant. Using coasters and placemats can help protect the surface from scratches and stains caused by everyday use.
- Avoid placing hot pans or dishes directly on your quartz countertops, as this can cause thermal shock and damage the surface. Quartz is not heat-resistant; therefore, extreme temperature changes can cause the surface to crack or chip. Always use a trivet or hot pad under hot pans and dishes to prevent this.
- Regularly clean your quartz countertops with a non-abrasive cleaner to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. While quartz is a low-maintenance material, it still requires regular cleaning to keep it looking its best. Use a non-abrasive cleaner designed explicitly for quartz countertops to remove dirt, grime, and stains.
When it comes to cleaning quartz countertops, it’s essential to use the right products to avoid damaging the surface. Here are some of the best products to use:
- Warm water and a soft cloth or sponge – For daily maintenance, warm water and a soft cloth or sponge are all you need to keep your quartz countertops clean.
- Mild detergent or a non-abrasive cleaner designed explicitly for quartz countertops – For tougher stains, use a mild or non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for quartz countertops.
- White vinegar mixed with water (in a 1:1 ratio) – White vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that’s safe for use on quartz countertops. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water and apply it to the surface with a soft cloth or sponge to remove stains and disinfect your countertops. White vinegar is an effective and natural cleaning agent that can help remove stubborn stains and disinfect your countertops. However, diluting it with water is vital to avoid damaging the surface. After cleaning with vinegar, be sure to rinse the area thoroughly with water and dry it with a clean cloth to prevent water spots.
How to Clean Quartz Countertop Stains
Even though quartz countertops are non-porous and resistant to stains, spills left unattended for long periods can leave a mark on the surface. Here are the steps to remove stains from quartz countertops:
- Identify the type of stain: Quartz countertops can be stained by different substances, such as coffee, wine, juice, oil, ink, and more. It’s essential to know the type of stain to choose the right cleaning solution.
- Create a cleaning solution: Depending on the type of stain, create a cleaning solution by mixing a mild detergent, non-abrasive cleaner, or a quartz countertop stain remover with warm water.
- Apply the cleaning solution: Apply the homemade quartz cleaner to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the stain.
- Scrub the stain: Use a soft-bristled brush or a non-abrasive sponge to scrub the stain in a circular motion gently. Avoid using abrasive pads or brushes as they can scratch the countertop’s surface.
- Rinse and dry: Rinse the area with warm water to remove the cleaning solution, and dry the surface with a soft cloth or paper towel.
Best Way to Clean Quartz Countertops
While quartz is generally fuss-free and low maintenance, just like any other material, there are specific rules to maintaining it. These are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use a soft cloth or sponge: When cleaning quartz countertops, always use a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratching the surface.
- Use gentle cleaning solutions: Use a mild detergent, non-abrasive cleaner, or white vinegar diluted with water to clean your countertops.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly: After cleaning your countertops, rinse the surface with warm water and dry it with a soft cloth or paper towel to prevent water spots.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your quartz countertops remain clean, shiny, and in excellent condition for years to come.
Can You Use Vinegar on Quartz?
Vinegar is a common household cleaning agent that effectively removes stains and disinfects surfaces. However, when it comes to quartz countertops, you should be cautious when using vinegar as a cleaning solution. While quartz countertops are resistant to stains, they can still be damaged by acidic solutions such as vinegar. Vinegar is an acidic solution with a pH level of around 2.5, which can etch and dull the surface of your quartz countertops.
Over time, repeated use of vinegar can cause damage and compromise the integrity of your countertops. If you must use vinegar to clean your quartz countertops, make sure to dilute it with water and use it sparingly. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water and apply it to the surface with a soft cloth or sponge to remove stains and disinfect your countertops. After cleaning with vinegar, be sure to rinse the area thoroughly with water and dry it with a clean cloth to prevent water spots.
What Should You Not Clean Quartz Countertops with?
Quartz countertops are durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. However, they can be damaged by specific cleaning solutions and chemicals. You should keep these in mind when cleaning your quartz countertops:
- Abrasive cleaners: Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can scratch the surface of your countertops.
- Harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach, ammonia, or oven cleaner, as they can damage the surface of your countertops and discolor them.
- Acidic solutions: Avoid using acidic solutions such as lemon juice, vinegar, or lime, as they can etch and dull the surface of your countertops.
- Metal brushes or scrapers: Avoid using metal brushes or scrapers, as they can scratch and damage the surface of your countertops.
By avoiding these cleaning solutions and tools, you can help ensure that your quartz countertops remain in excellent condition for many years to come.