Keeping your pure white quartz countertops looking pristine and sparkling clean can seem like a daunting task. However, with the right techniques and products, it’s easier than you think. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to clean pure white quartz countertops and maintain their beauty for years to come.
Supplies You’ll Need
- Microfiber cloths
- Soft brush or non-abrasive sponge
- pH-neutral cleaner or mild dish soap
- Disinfectant spray or wipes
- Water and vinegar mixture (equal parts white vinegar and water)
- Baby oil, olive oil, or mineral oil (for polishing)
- Clean towel or paper towels
Regular Maintenance Cleaning
- Sweep counter first with a soft brush to remove any loose debris or dirt. This prevents scratches.
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle. Avoid harsh cleaners like bleach or ammonia.
- Spray soapy water directly onto the countertop. Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the entire surface.
- Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly with a lint-free towel.
- For dried spills or sticky messes, let warm soapy water sit for a few minutes to soften before wiping away.
- Disinfect periodically with an EPA-approved spray or wipes. Many popular brands are safe for quartz.
Removing Stains and Tough Spots
- For dried food, grease, wine or ink stains, use a non-abrasive sponge with warm water and dish soap. Gently scrub the stain in circles.
- For hard water spots and soap scum buildup, spray on an even layer of white vinegar and water. Let sit 5-10 minutes then wipe clean.
- To shine and polish, apply a small amount of baby oil, olive oil or mineral oil to the countertop. Rub gently with a soft cloth.
- Avoid using any acid-based cleaners, scouring pads, abrasive powders or steel wool as these can damage and scratch the surface.
Preventing Damage
- Always use cutting boards, trivets and coasters under hot pans or appliances. This prevents scorch marks.
- Clean up spills immediately before they have a chance to set and stain.
- Re-seal your quartz countertop every 1-2 years with a sealant specifically made for quartz. This prevents staining.
- Avoid exposing your countertops to harsh chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners or drain openers.
Deep Cleaning Quartz Countertops
- For a deep clean, make a paste of baking soda and water. Spread onto counter and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge then rinse. Baking soda helps remove set-in grime.
- For stubborn stains, make a paste with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Let sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
- Mixing lemon juice with cream of tartar also makes an effective cleaning paste for tough stains.
- Be sure to re-seal after any deep cleaning methods which use acidic ingredients.
Cautions When Cleaning Quartz
- Avoid using knife directly on countertop. Use a cutting board to prevent scratching surface.
- Don’t use abrasive cleaners, pads or powders which can damage the finish.
- Never place hot pans, pots or appliances directly on quartz. Use trivets and hot pads.
- Reseal quartz every 1-2 years to prevent staining and etching from acidic foods and liquids.
- Don’t use quartz polish made for natural stone. Use only quartz-specific sealants and cleaners.
With the proper care and cleaning methods, pure white quartz countertops will maintain their flawless beauty and luster for many years. Follow these tips to keep your quartz counters spotless.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Can I use bleach or ammonia to clean my quartz countertop?
No, avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, acetone or oven cleaners on quartz. They can damage or etch the surface. Stick to mild dish soap or pH-neutral cleaners.
How can I remove dried food or grease stains?
For dried on messes, let warm soapy water sit on the stain for a few minutes to soften. Then use a non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth to gently rub in circles until it lifts. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
What is the best way to polish a quartz countertop?
Use a small amount of baby oil, olive oil or mineral oil. Rub it gently over the surface using a soft cloth. Avoid quartz polishes made for natural stone. Use only products specifically for quartz.
Can quartz countertops stain from wine or tomato sauce?
Yes, quartz is porous so it can absorb stains over time without proper cleaning. However, treating spills quickly and resealing regularly prevents most staining.
How often should I reseal my quartz countertop?
It’s recommended to reseal your quartz countertop every 1-2 years using a sealant made specifically for quartz. This prevents stains and etching. More frequent sealing is needed for heavily used surfaces.
What should I avoid putting on a quartz countertop?
Avoid direct heat, harsh chemicals, acids, abrasive cleaners or pads. Always use trivets and cutting boards to protect the surface. Preventing damage is easier than repairing it later.
Conclusion
Caring for quartz countertops doesn’t require special skills, just the right techniques and products. With routine cleaning using mild dish soap and water, plus periodic disinfecting and polishing, you can keep pure white quartz counters looking like new for many years. Avoid abrasive cleaning and be sure to wipe up spills quickly. Re-sealing every 1-2 years gives added protection. Follow these tips and your beautiful quartz countertops will stay in tip-top condition.