How to Clean Quartz Countertops

When you upgrade your home with quartz countertops, the first thing you’ll want to learn is how to maintain them. As an investment into your home, quartz maintenance is crucial in making sure it retains its quality over the years. 

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Of course, being such a precious stone, there are dos and don’ts to know on how to clean quartz properly. 

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So, before you start spraying your favorite all-purpose spray on your new countertop, there are a few things you’ll need to know to preserve its appearance and finish. That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate guide to quartz maintenance. 

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Keep reading to learn how to clean quartz countertops and more. 

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Quartz Countertop Basics

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Before we get into our cleaning tips, let’s learn more about the stone to understand why its maintenance is so important. Quartz countertops are engineered stone products, versus natural stones like marble or granite. Quartz countertops are composed of natural quartz crystals mixed with resins and pigments. 

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This unique blend makes quartz countertops non-porous, resistant to stains and scratches, and highly durable. Unlike natural stone countertops, quartz does not require sealing, making it a practical choice for busy kitchens and bathrooms.

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How to Clean Quartz Countertops

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For most chores, there’s daily wiping or cleaning, spot cleaning, and deep or preventative cleaning. Keeping up with your quartz maintenance is no different. So next, we’ll cover how to clean quartz countertops and the best practices to know for each of the cleaning types. 

Daily Cleaning 

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Keeping your quartz countertops clean daily is essential to maintaining their beauty and longevity. Here’s a step-by-step routine:

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1. Wipe surfaces: Use a soft cloth or sponge and warm water to wipe down the countertop surface daily. This will help remove any dirt, crumbs, or spills.
2. Use mild dish soap: For more thorough cleaning, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Dip a cloth or sponge into the soapy water and gently scrub the countertop. Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft towel.
3. Avoid abrasive cleaners: Steer clear of abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, and harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface and dull the finish of your quartz countertops.

Spot Cleaning 

Even though quartz is highly stain-resistant, some substances can leave marks if not cleaned promptly. Here’s how to handle the most common types of stains:

1. Grease and oil: If you encounter grease or oil stains, use a degreasing cleaner that is safe for quartz. Apply the cleaner to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe away with a damp cloth.
2. Food and beverage: For stains from food and beverages, make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Gently scrub with a soft cloth and rinse with warm water.
3. Ink and permanent marker: Dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol and gently rub the stained area. Rinse with water and dry the surface.

Deep Cleaning

In addition to daily cleaning, deep cleaning from time to time will help maintain the luster of your quartz countertops. Here are some tips and best practices for doing so successfully. 

1. Remove surface debris: Clear off any items from the countertop and wipe down the surface with a damp cloth to remove any loose debris.
2. Use a non-abrasive cleaner: Apply a non-abrasive, pH-balanced cleaner specifically formulated for quartz countertops. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
3. Scrub gently: Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the surface, paying attention to any areas with stubborn stains or buildup.
4. Rinse and dry: Rinse the countertop thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue from the cleaner. Dry the surface with a soft towel to prevent water spots.

Preventative Quartz Maintenance  

Again, even though quartz countertops are highly durable, no surface is invincible. To retain its original quality and avoid any dents or damage, here are some tips for preventative quartz maintenance. 

1. Use cutting boards: Always use a cutting board when chopping or slicing food. Directly cutting on quartz can cause scratches and dull the surface over time.
2. Avoid hot pots and pans: Use trivets or hot pads under hot cookware to protect the surface from thermal shock and potential discoloration.
3. Clean up spills immediately: Wipe up spills as soon as they occur to prevent any potential staining or damage. Acidic substances like vinegar, wine, and citrus juices can be particularly harmful if left on the surface for too long.
4. Avoid heavy items: Avoid dropping heavy items on the countertop, as this can cause chips or cracks.

Cleaning Quartz Countertops: Eco-Friendly Edition 

If you strive to be environmentally friendly with your cleaning products, this section is for you. Quartz has a plethora of natural cleaning solutions that are effective for use. Here are three ways you can naturally clean your quartz countertops.:

• Vinegar and water: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water for an effective and eco-friendly cleaner. Apply with a soft cloth and rinse thoroughly.
• Baking soda: Make a paste with baking soda and water to tackle stubborn stains. Apply to the stain, let it sit, and gently scrub before rinsing.

If you don’t love the natural aroma that these cleaners have, feel free to add essential oils, like lavender or lemon, for a more pleasant scent.

Quartz Maintenance: Do’s and Don’ts 

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What’s simpler than a do’s or don’ts list for what to do with your new quartz countertop? To educate yourself, your family, or visitors, here are the do’s and don’ts to follow to ensure your quartz countertops remain in excellent condition. 

Quartz Maintenance Do’s:

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• Do use mild dish soap and warm water for daily cleaning.
• Do use cutting boards to protect the surface from scratches.
• Do use trivets and hot pads under hot cookware.
• Do clean up spills immediately to prevent staining.
• Do use a non-abrasive cleaner for periodic deep cleaning.

Quartz Maintenance Don’ts:

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• Don’t use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or harsh chemicals.
• Don’t use the countertop as a cutting surface.
• Don’t place hot pots and pans directly on the countertop.
• Don’t let spills, especially acidic substances, sit on the surface.
• Don’t drop heavy items on the countertop.

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Protecting and Repairing Quartz Countertop Damage

Quartz countertops are often found in the two most busy rooms of the home - bathrooms and kitchen. Which means they endure more wear and tear than usual with increased activities. Of course, there are a few types of activities you’ll want to avoid to protect your countertops from damage. Those are the following: 

Heat

Quartz countertops are heat-resistant to a certain degree, but extreme heat can cause discoloration and damage. Always use hot pads under hot cookware to avoid thermal shock. In the bathroom, invest in hot tool pads for your straighteners or curling irons, too. 

Chemicals

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Certain chemicals can damage quartz countertops, so avoid using them directly on or in the area of. These include bleach, ammonia, oven cleaners, and other harsh chemicals. If a strong cleaner is necessary, ensure it is safe for quartz surfaces before using it.

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Acid

Etching occurs when acidic substances come into contact with the surface. While quartz is more resistant to etching than natural stones like marble, it’s still important to wipe up acidic spills promptly to prevent any potential damage.

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Moreover, if you’re just looking to maintain the natural shine of your quartz countertops, use a quartz polish or a mixture of vinegar and water. Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and buff the surface gently. 

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If you’ve already come across an area of concern on your piece of quartz - have no fear. Before we go, let’s cover how some of the most common quartz issues can be resolved. 

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1. Chips and cracks: If your quartz countertop develops chips or cracks, contact a professional for repair. Attempting to fix it yourself can lead to further damage.
2. Discoloration: Discoloration can occur due to prolonged exposure to sunlight or chemical damage. If you notice any discoloration, consult a professional to determine the best course of action.
3. Water spots: Water spots can be removed by wiping the surface with a mixture of water and white vinegar.

How to Clean Quartz Countertops: The Bottom Line

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With this guide, you now know the answer to “how to clean quartz countertops” and how to keep up with ongoing quartz maintenance. Next, you just have to install the perfect piece of quartz countertop in your home. At AP Marble, we offer our customers and clients over 40,000 square feet of stone in our showroom to choose from. 

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From granite and marble to quartzite and onyx, we have a stone for every style and every room, and with 20 years in the business provide exemplary service in helping select a slab that’s just right. 

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Make AP Marble your go-to source for all things stone, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay in tune with all the latest. Before getting in touch with our team or visiting our showroom, check out our reviews or keep learning with our full catalog of educational resources. 

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