Quartz countertops are a favorite choice for homeowners because theyโre durable, stylish, and low-maintenance. Whether you’re dealing with everyday cleaning or tackling tough stains, knowing how to clean quartz countertops properly can keep your surfaces looking brand-new for years. In this post, we’ll cover the best cleaning practices, tips for stain removal, and comparisons to other popular countertop materials like granite, quartzite, and Dekton. Ready to learn how to clean quartz countertops effectively?ย Letโs dive in!
Table of Contents
Why Quartz Countertops Are Popular
Quartz countertops are engineered surfaces made by combining natural quartz with resins and pigments. This blend creates a non-porous, stain-resistant surface thatโs perfect for busy kitchens and bathrooms. Unlike natural stones like granite or marble, quartz doesnโt require sealing, making it a hassle-free choice for homeowners.
What to Clean Quartz Countertops With
The best part about quartz is that itโs easy to maintain with the right products and techniques. Here’s how to keep your quartz countertops spotless:
- Use a Gentle Cleaner: Stick to mild dish soap mixed with warm water for daily cleaning. Harsh chemicals like bleach can damage the resin in quartz, so avoid those at all costs.
- Microfiber Cloths Are Your Best Friend: These soft cloths are perfect for wiping down quartz surfaces without scratching.
- Avoid Abrasive Pads: Steer clear of scrubbers like steel wool, which can leave marks on your countertop.
For a quick clean, spray a solution of water and dish soap, wipe it down with a microfiber cloth, and dry with a clean towel.
How to Clean Quartz Countertops Stains
Although quartz is non-porous and highly stain-resistant, spills left to sit too long can leave marks. Hereโs how to handle common stains:
- Grease and Oil Stains: Use a degreasing cleaner thatโs safe for quartz. Spray it on the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and wipe it clean.
- Coffee or Tea Stains: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for 15 minutes, and gently scrub with a soft cloth.
- Hard Water Spots: Use a vinegar solution (50% vinegar and 50% water) to tackle water stains. Spray, let it sit for a few minutes, and wipe away.
Always test cleaning solutions on a small, hidden area before applying them to a larger spot.
Do's and Don'ts for Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Taking proper care of your quartz countertops is key to keeping them looking beautiful for years. Hereโs a simple guide to the doโs and donโts of maintenance, along with tips on how to clean quartz countertops effectively.
The Right Way to Clean Quartz Countertops: Do's You Need to Know
- Use Gentle Cleaners: Clean your quartz countertops daily with a mix of mild dish soap and warm water. A soft microfiber cloth works best for wiping and polishing.
- Clean Spills Immediately: Quickly clean up spills, especially from acidic substances like lemon juice, wine, or coffee, to prevent potential staining.
- Use a Cutting Board: Protect your countertops by using a cutting board instead of cutting directly on the surface.
- Place Hot Pads Under Cookware: Always use trivets or hot pads for hot pans, pots, or baking sheets to prevent thermal shock.
- Rinse Thoroughly After Cleaning: Remove any cleaning residue by rinsing with clean water and drying with a towel to avoid streaks.
The Donโts of Cleaning Quartz Countertops: What to Avoid
- Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Steer clear of harsh chemicals like bleach, oven cleaners, or abrasive pads, as they can damage the resin and leave scratches.
- Donโt Use Acidic Solutions: Cleaners with vinegar, citrus, or ammonia can wear down the surface over time.
- No Harsh Scrubbing: Avoid steel wool or rough scrubbing pads that may scratch or dull the surface.
- Donโt Leave Stains to Sit: Even though quartz is non-porous, substances like wine or coffee can leave discoloration if not cleaned promptly.
- Avoid Extreme Heat Exposure: Never place hot items directly on your quartz countertop. While quartz is heat-resistant, direct heat can cause cracks or discoloration.
Keep It Simple: 5-Tips To Clean Your Quartz Countertop
Cleaning your quartz countertop doesnโt have to be complicated! Here are 5 simple tips to keep your surface looking spotless and beautiful every day.
1. Use Gentle Cleaners
Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Stick to a mild dish soap and warm water for daily cleaning. Just a soft sponge is enough to keep your quartz looking shiny and new without damaging the surface.
2. Wipe Up Spills Quickly
Quartz is non-porous, but leaving acidic or dark-colored spills like wine, coffee, or tomato sauce can lead to stubborn stains. Don’t forget, quartz countertops are stain resistant, not stain-proof. Clean up spills as soon as they happen with a damp cloth to prevent them from settling.
3. Avoid Heat Exposure
While quartz is heat-resistant, sudden exposure to high heat can cause cracking. Always use trivets or heat pads under hot pots, pans, or appliances to protect the surface.
4. Scrape Off Dried Gunk Gently
For dried-on food or sticky messes, use a plastic scraper or a credit card to gently lift the residue. Avoid sharp tools that could scratch the surface.
5. Skip Harsh Chemicals
Never use bleach, oven cleaners, or highly acidic substances on quartz. These can break down the resin that binds quartz together, dulling its shine over time. Opt for a quartz-safe cleaner if needed for deeper cleaning.
These tips will help your quartz countertops stay beautiful and durable for years to come!
How to Clean Matte Quartz Countertops
Matte quartz countertops are trending for their sophisticated, understated look. However, they can show smudges and fingerprints more easily than polished quartz.
To clean matte quartz countertops:
Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleaner or a mix of dish soap and water.
Wipe with a microfiber cloth, ensuring you dry the surface thoroughly to avoid streaks.
For tougher smudges, use a quartz-specific cleaner designed for matte finishes.
How Quartz Compares to Other Countertop Materials
Quartz countertops are a favorite for a reason, but how do they stack up against other popular materials like granite, quartzite, and Dekton? Letโs break it down:
Quartz vs. Granite
Quartz and granite are two of the most popular choices for homeowners, but they differ significantly in maintenance and performance.
- Stain Resistance: Quartz wins here because itโs engineered to be non-porous, meaning liquids donโt seep in and cause stains. Granite, on the other hand, needs regular sealing to maintain its stain resistance.
- Durability: Both are highly durable, but granite can chip more easily around the edges.
- Cleaning: Granite requires pH-balanced cleaners and some extra care to maintain its sealant, while quartz only needs mild soap and water.
If youโre looking for a low-maintenance option, quartz is the clear choice. However, graniteโs natural variations offer a one-of-a-kind aesthetic that some homeowners love.
Quartz vs. Quartzite
Quartzite, though similar in name, is a completely natural stone that offers a unique, earthy look.
Stain Resistance: Quartz has the upper hand here. Quartzite, like granite, needs sealing to resist stains. Without regular sealing, quartzite can absorb oils and other liquids.
Durability: Both are durable, but quartzite is slightly harder, which can make it more resistant to scratches. However, this hardness makes it more prone to chipping along the edges if mishandled.
Cleaning: Quartz is easier to clean and maintain since it doesnโt need special sealers or products. Quartzite, on the other hand, requires periodic sealing and gentle cleaning solutions.
Quartzite is a stunning choice for those who love natural beauty, but quartz offers a more user-friendly experience for busy households.
Quartz vs. Dekton
Dekton is an ultra-compact surface made from a blend of materials including quartz, porcelain, and glass, giving it a sleek, modern look.
Stain Resistance: Both materials are non-porous and highly stain-resistant, but Dekton can be more challenging to clean if stains are left to sit for long periods.
Durability: Dekton is extremely durable and resistant to heat and scratches, even more so than quartz. However, itโs more prone to chipping, especially at the edges.
Cleaning: Both are low-maintenance, but quartz may be slightly easier to clean due to its smooth, consistent surface.
Dektonโs modern appeal and toughness are great for certain spaces, but quartz remains the versatile option for a variety of kitchen styles.
Vinegar is not recommended for regular cleaning because itโs acidic and can break down the resin in quartz over time. However, it can be used sparingly to tackle specific stains, like hard water spots. Always dilute it with water and rinse thoroughly.
A gentle dish soap mixed with warm water is the best daily cleaner for quartz countertops. For tougher stains, you can use a quartz-specific cleaner or a baking soda paste for targeted cleaning.
To remove stubborn stains, like coffee or wine, apply a paste of baking soda and water to the area. Let it sit for 10โ15 minutes, then gently scrub with a microfiber cloth. Rinse with water and dry with a clean towel.
No, quartz countertops are engineered to be non-porous, so they donโt require sealing. This is one of the reasons why quartz is so popularโitโs incredibly low-maintenance compared to natural stone options like granite or quartzite.
Matte quartz countertops require the same gentle cleaning as polished quartz but may show smudges or fingerprints more easily. Use a microfiber cloth and a pH-balanced cleaner, and always dry the surface thoroughly to avoid streaks.
Itโs best to avoid placing hot pans directly on quartz countertops. Although quartz is heat-resistant, sudden changes in temperature can cause cracks or discoloration. Use a trivet or hot pad to protect your countertops.
Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the resin and dull the surface. Also, steer clear of scrubbing pads like steel wool, which can scratch the surface.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Quartz Countertops
- Using Harsh Chemicals: Avoid bleach, ammonia, and harsh degreasers. These can damage the resin and dull the surface.
- Scrubbing Too Hard: Stick to soft microfiber cloths to prevent scratches.
- Placing Hot Pans Directly on the Surface: Always use a trivet or hot pad to protect your quartz from heat damage.
Why Choose My Kitchen and Bath?
At My Kitchen and Bath, we donโt just install quartz countertopsโweโre dedicated to helping you care for and maintain them so your investment stays beautiful for years to come. From the moment you select your countertops to long after installation, weโre here to support you. In this article, weโve outlined how to clean quartz countertops effectively. If you have any additional questions or need further assistance, weโre always here to help!
Transform Your Kitchen with Quartz Countertops
Whether youโre planning a full kitchen remodel or simply upgrading your countertops, My Kitchen and Bath in Northern Virginia is your trusted partner. With years of experience and a passion for design, weโll help you create a space thatโs stunning and functional.
Contact us today for a free consultation and letโs discuss how quartz countertops can elevate your kitchen!
