Meta description: Learn the best and safest methods for cleaning quartz countertops. This in-depth guide covers daily cleaning, stubborn stains, and disinfecting quartz.
Introduction
Quartz countertops are popular in many homes for their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, even quartz requires regular cleaning to keep it looking beautiful. Cleaning quartz the wrong way with abrasive cleaners can damage the surface.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the safest and most effective ways to clean quartz countertops. Proper cleaning is essential to prevent etching, scratches, and stains. We will cover recommended products, techniques, and methods for daily cleaning, sanitizing, polishing, and removing stubborn stains from quartz.
Use Mild Soap and Water for Daily Cleaning
For routine cleaning, a mild soap and water solution is all you need. Avoid harsh cleaners and abrasive sponges and pads, which can dull and scratch the quartz.
Here’s a simple method for daily cleaning of quartz:
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap like Dawn in warm water. Avoid sudsy, citrus, or oil-based soaps.
- Use a soft microfiber cloth, sponge, or paper towel dampened with the soap solution.
- Wipe the countertop surface with the damp cloth in circular motions. Apply light pressure.
- Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft towel.
This removes most dirt, dust, and grime from daily use. For best results, clean quartz daily or after preparing meals. The mild soap formula is safe for routine cleaning.
Use a Specific Quartz Cleaner
Look for a cleaning product specifically formulated for quartz. These contain gentle surfactants and polymers to lift dirt. Popular options include:
- StoneTech Revitalizer Cleaner
- Method Daily Granite & Stone Cleaner
- Granite Gold Daily Cleaner
- Weiman Granite Cleaner & Polish
Spray a small amount of the quartz cleaner directly on the countertop. Use a soft cloth or sponge to spread and wipe the surface. No need to rinse after. These specialized cleaners help dissolve stuck-on messes without dulling the quartz finish.
Avoid Certain Cleaners
Do not use these damaging cleaners on quartz:
- Window cleaners like Windex
- Vinegar or bleach solutions
- Abrasive powders and scrubs
- Alkaline cleaners with high pH
- Oil soaps
- Citrus cleaners
Vinegar, lemon juice, bleach, and alkaline cleaners etch and dull quartz surfaces. And abrasive cleaners like Comet or Soft Scrub scratch the finish. Stick to mild soaps and specialized stone cleaners only.
How to Disinfect Quartz Countertops
Sanitizing quartz periodically kills germs and bacteria. Here are safe ways to disinfect without harming the surface:
Diluted Bleach Solution
Make a gentle bleach cleaning solution for disinfecting:
- 1/3 cup bleach
- 1 gallon water
- 1-2 drops dish soap (optional)
Mix the solution in a spray bottle. Spray directly on the quartz and wipe clean with a paper towel after 5 minutes. Avoid bleach contact with metal fixtures. This kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses.
Rubbing Alcohol
Undiluted 70% isopropyl alcohol works to sanitize quartz. Pour a small amount on a clean cloth and wipe the surface. No need to rinse. The alcohol evaporates rapidly. Repeat weekly or as needed.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Mix 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide with 4 parts water. Spray or wipe this solution onto the quartz countertop and allow to sit for 5 minutes before wiping dry with a clean cloth. Hydrogen peroxide is an effective natural disinfectant.
Other Tips:
- Quartz can withstand higher heat than many competing surfaces. But prolonged heat exposure can damage it over time. Use trivets under hot pans and baking dishes to prevent cracking and dulling.
- For water spots and mineral deposits, use a cleaning polish made specifically for quartz. Apply a small amount to the stain and buff clean. Avoid lime-removing cleaners.
- Don’t cut food directly on quartz. Use a cutting board to avoid dulling and scratching.
- Blot up spills immediately before they have a chance to soak in and stain.
- Avoid placing toiletry products directly on your quartz vanity top. Chemicals in hair products, cosmetics, and skincare can etch the surface.
By using the proper techniques and cleaners, you can safely keep quartz counters looking like new for years. Always test cleaning products on a small inconspicuous area first. With regular light cleaning and occasional deep cleaning, quartz is an easy-care and durable countertop option.
How to Remove Dried Spills and Stains from Quartz
Accidents happen. Quartz is prone to staining from spills – like wine, coffee, and oil – that are left to dry on the surface. Here are the most effective ways to remove dried stains without damaging the quartz.
Baking Soda Paste
Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain and let sit for 5 minutes. Scrub gently with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that lifts stains without dulling quartz.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Use 3% hydrogen peroxide straight from the bottle. Let it bubble on the stain for 2-3 minutes. Wipe clean. No need to rinse. The oxidizing properties in hydrogen peroxide help remove discoloration.
Bleach Gel
Apply a chlorine bleach gel directly to the stain. Let it sit for up to 5 minutes before rinsing. This targets tough dried-on stains.
Magic Eraser
Dab a wet Magic Eraser sponge on the mark and rub gently. Avoid excessive scrubbing. Magic Erasers work well to lift stains without scratching.
Glass Cooktop Cleaner
These specialized cleaners like Cerama Bryte and Weiman are designed to remove cooked-on food from stove tops. They can work to lift dried spills from quartz too. Apply and let sit before wiping clean.
Ammonia
For soap scum and hard water marks, use a half-and-half solution of ammonia and water. Wipe the solution onto the stain and rinse thoroughly after 5 minutes.
Always follow up spot cleaning with a rinse and dry to avoid streaks. With the right technique, even dried-on stains can be removed to restore the quartz finish.
How to Remove Etches and Scratches from Quartz
Etch marks appear as dull, foggy spots on quartz. These are caused by acid-based cleaners and spills. Scratches are superficial surface abrasions. Here are some tips for fixing these surface flaws:
Baking Soda & Water Paste
Make a paste with baking soda and water. Gently rub it into the etch mark using a soft cloth or buffing pad. Rinse thoroughly. For lighter etches, this can help buff out the damage.
Fine Sandpaper
For shallow scratches, use 600 grit wet-dry sandpaper lubricated with water. Gently sand in a circular motion. Start with light pressure. Be careful not to create deeper grooves.
Etch Remover Products
Use an etch mark remover specifically formulated for quartz. Popular options are Granite Gold Etch & Mark Remover or StoneTech Heavy Duty Scratch Remover. Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Allow 2-3 minutes of dwell time before wiping.
Diamond Pads
Rub a hand-held diamond polishing pad over etches and scratches. Apply moderate pressure. These pads come in varying grits – 50, 100, 200, and 400. Work up to finer grits to restore the smooth factory finish.
Polishing Compound
After sanding or diamond pads, apply a quartz-safe polishing compound like Stoneline Polish. Use a microfiber cloth to buff out Sand in circular motions. Finish by rinsing and drying completely. The compound will create a light protective coating.
Professional Help
For deep scratches and damage, hire a professional stone restoration company. They have specialized equipment to re-polish and resurface the quartz. This yields the best results for severe etching and scratches.
While it’s not possible to fully repair all damage, these techniques can significantly improve the look of etched and scratched quartz. But prevention is key – always use trivets and proper cleaners.
How to Clean Quartz Countertop Edges and Backsplash
The edges and backsplashes on quartz countertops also need regular cleaning. Here are some tips:
- For food, dirt, and water spots, use a soft cloth with a mild soap and water solution.
- Rinse soap residue thoroughly to avoid streaks.
- Clean backsplashes first, then work down edges and surfaces.
- Use a soft bristled toothbrush dipped in soap and water to scrub debris from textured edges and bevels.
- For hard water deposits on backsplash, spray with white vinegar and let sit 5 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
- Avoid using razor blades or scrapers which can nick and scratch the quartz edges.
- For stubborn dried food, grease, or soap scum on edges, spray with an ammonia-free glass cleaner and let penetrate for 2-3 minutes before wiping.
- Sanitize edges and backsplash periodically with diluted bleach or isopropyl alcohol solutions.
- Buff edges and backsplash after cleaning to polish and shine using microfiber cloths.
Regular attention to edges prevents a buildup of grime that is harder to remove. Take extra care when cleaning near walls and vertical surfaces. With routine cleaning, the edges and backsplash will stay looking new.
How to Clean a Quartz Sink
Quartz is also commonly used for kitchen and bathroom sinks. Here are tips for cleaning quartz sinks:
- Everyday cleaning – Wipe the sink basin with a soft cloth, mild soap, and warm water after use. Rinse thoroughly.
- Disinfecting – Periodically sanitize with a diluted bleach solution or rubbing alcohol. Let sit 5 minutes before rinsing.
- Remove stains – Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply to stains and scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge before rinsing.
- Remove residue – For soap scum, toothpaste, and mineral deposits, spray with white vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes. Scrub and rinse.
- Avoid abrasives – Do not use abrasive scrubs or scouring pads, which can scratch and damage quartz.
- Soften water – Install a water softener if you have hard water issues to prevent limescale buildup.
- Protect finish – Always use a bottom grid, rack, or mat to prevent metal pans and objects from damaging the quartz surface.
By following these cleaning methods, a quartz sink will stay beautiful and sanitary. Take care to avoid scratching or etching this surface. With proper care, a quartz sink is highly durable in kitchens and baths.
Tips for Cleaning Other Quartz Surfaces
In addition to countertops and sinks, quartz is used for:
- Shower walls and floors
- Fireplace surrounds
- Tabletops
- Bars
- Outdoor kitchens
The same gentle cleaning principles apply. Here are some additional tips:
- For shower walls, use a squeegee to wipe down after use. Prevent soap scum buildup with a weekly white vinegar spray.
- Outdoor quartz requires more frequent cleaning and sealing to withstand weathering and UV exposure.
- For tables and bars, clean spills immediately to prevent staining. A gentle cleaner like StoneTech Revitalizer works well.
- Check manufacturer care instructions for fireplace surrounds concerning hearth products and heat exposure.
- Use coasters under glasses on quartz tabletops and bars. Blot spills quickly to prevent damage.
Quartz is an ideal material for heavy use surfaces across home and commercial settings. Stay mindful of preventing scratches, stains, and etching. With proper care, quartz maintains its beauty and durability over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use bleach on quartz?
Yes, diluted bleach is safe for disinfecting quartz. Mix 1/3 cup bleach into 1 gallon of water. Wipe the solution onto the surface and allow to sit 5 minutes before rinsing clean. Avoid prolonged exposure to prevent discoloration.
What happens if lemon juice is left on quartz?
Lemon juice contains citric acid, which can etch and damage quartz if left to sit. Immediately rinse and dilute any lemon juice spills to avoid permanent etching.
How do you get dried soap scum off quartz?
Spray white vinegar directly onto dried soap scum marks. Let sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing with a soft brush and rinsing clean. The acetic acid in vinegar dissolves soap residue.
Can you use rubbing alcohol to clean quartz?
Yes. Undiluted 70% isopropyl alcohol can be used to safely disinfect quartz. Wipe rubbing alcohol onto the surface and let sit for 5 minutes before drying with a clean cloth.
What removes hard water stains from quartz?
Hard water deposits can be removed with a 50/50 white vinegar and water solution. Spray onto the stain, allow to sit 5 minutes, then scrub with a soft brush before rinsing. Use this regularly to prevent limescale buildup.
Does Mr. Clean work on quartz?
No. Abrasive cleaners like Mr. Clean should be avoided on quartz. The gritty texture and harsh chemicals can dull and etch the surface. Use only pH-neutral cleaners labeled safe for quartz and stone.
Can I use CLR to remove stains from quartz?
No, avoid using CLR cleaner on quartz surfaces. The acidic formula can damage and etch quartz. Use a baking soda paste or hydrogen peroxide instead to lift stains safely.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning and disinfecting are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of quartz countertops. By following these best practices, you can safely remove stains, etches, and scratches that occur over time. Be sure to:
- Clean surfaces daily with only mild soap and water.
- Disinfect periodically with diluted bleach or isopropyl alcohol.
- Remove dried spills immediately with baking soda paste or hydrogen peroxide.
- Fix etches and scratches using fine sandpaper, diamond pads, or polishing compound.
- Pay close attention to cleaning edges, backsplashes, sinks, and other quartz surfaces.
Always test cleaning products on an inconspicuous spot first. With proper care, quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years, making them a smart and stylish choice for any home.