Quartz countertops are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their durability, elegance, and relatively low maintenance. However, to keep them looking their best, it’s important to follow specific cleaning practices. In this guide, we’ll cover the best techniques to clean and maintain your quartz countertops, ensuring they remain pristine for years to come.
Immediate Spill Management
One of the key aspects of maintaining quartz countertops is to clean up spills immediately. Although quartz is stain-resistant, it is not stain-proof. Liquids such as red Kool-Aid, coffee, and tea can penetrate the surface if left too long, leaving unsightly stains. Always have a damp towel or paper towel handy to wipe up spills as soon as they occur to prevent them from drying and setting into the stone.
Choosing the Right Cleaner
When selecting a cleaner for your quartz countertops, it’s essential to avoid harsh chemicals. Substances like bleach and vinegar, although effective on other surfaces, can damage quartz. These materials are too acidic or alkaline and can break down the bonds of the quartz and resin. Even disinfectant wipes, if used repeatedly, can cause damage over time.
Instead, a simple mixture of dish soap and water in a spray bottle is recommended. This gentle solution is effective at cutting through grease and grime without harming the surface. Another viable option is using a cleaner specifically formulated for granite and quartz, like those from Barkeeper’s Friend. However, the dish soap and water mixture is not only effective but also economical.
Disinfecting Quartz Countertops
For disinfecting quartz countertops, the use of 70% isopropyl alcohol is advised. This concentration is strong enough to kill bacteria and viruses without the need for dilution. A practical tip is to attach a spray nozzle directly to the alcohol bottle, making it easy to apply evenly across the countertop.
Stubborn Stains
Occasionally, you might encounter stains that don’t come off with regular cleaning. For such situations, 70% isopropyl alcohol can often solve the problem. If the stain persists, a paste made from baking soda and water can be applied and gently scrubbed with a soft cloth. This method is effective for most tough stains.
In more stubborn cases, a Magic Eraser can be used. However, it’s crucial to use it sparingly and gently to avoid causing surface damage. Regular use of abrasive cleaners or scrubbers, such as steel wool or green scouring pads, should be avoided as they can scratch the quartz.
For stuck-on food or grime, a plastic spatula can be an excellent tool. It’s gentle enough to avoid scratching the surface while being effective at lifting stubborn debris. Tools like Scrub Daddy sponges are also a good choice because they are non-abrasive and safe for use on quartz countertops.
Daily Maintenance Tips
To keep your quartz countertops looking their best, follow these daily maintenance tips:
Daily Wipe Down: Clean the countertops at least once a day to remove any potential staining agents. Use a two-towel system: one for applying the cleaner and another dry microfiber cloth to buff the surface to a streak-free shine.
Use Cutting Boards: Never cut directly on the countertop. Quartz is scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof. Always use a cutting board to protect the surface.
Protect from Heat: Avoid placing hot pots and pans directly on the quartz surface. The rapid temperature change can cause cracking. Use hot pads or trivets to protect the countertops from heat damage.
Keep them Clean!
By following these cleaning and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your quartz countertops remain beautiful and functional for many years.