How to Clean Quartz Countertops with Baking Soda

Introduction

Quartz countertops are popular in many modern kitchens and bathrooms because of their durability, ease of maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, like any surface, quartz countertops are prone to stains, spills, fingerprints, and other grime that can make them look dirty and dull over time. Fortunately, with the right cleaning solutions and techniques, you can easily restore the sparkling look of your quartz countertops.

One inexpensive, readily available, and highly effective cleaner for quartz countertops is simple baking soda. Baking soda is a mild alkali that can help lift dirt and stains without damaging the quartz surface when used properly. It’s also non-toxic and gentle enough for everyday cleaning.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to clean quartz countertops with baking soda properly and safely.

Supplies Needed

Cleaning quartz with baking soda doesn’t require many supplies. Here is a quick list of what you’ll need:

Baking soda
Water
Clean soft cloths or microfiber cloths
Mild liquid dish soap (optional)
Spray bottle (optional)

Make sure to use soft, non-abrasive cloths to avoid scratching the quartz surface. Microfiber cloths are ideal. Avoid using abrasive sponges or anything that could scour the countertop.

Mixing a Baking Soda Paste

The simplest way to clean quartz with baking soda is to make a paste. Here is a quick step-by-step:

Add 3-4 tablespoons of baking soda to a small bowl.
Add just enough water to moisten the baking soda into a spreadable paste, about 1-2 tablespoons. You don’t want the paste to be too runny.
Optionally, you can also add a small squirt of mild dish soap to the paste for extra cleaning power.
Mix together thoroughly with a spoon until a thick, gritty paste forms.

This baking soda paste can then be used to scrub away dirt and stains on quartz. The minor abrasiveness of the soda grains will help lift grime without damaging the finish.

Cleaning the Entire Countertop

For an overall deep clean and brightening of your entire quartz countertop surface, follow these steps:

Remove everything from the countertop.
Apply a layer of the baking soda paste over the entire surface using a soft cloth or sponge.
Let the paste sit for 5-10 minutes so it can start breaking down dirt and stains.
Use a damp soft cloth to gently scrub the paste over the surface in circles. Apply light pressure as you scrub.
Rinse the countertop thoroughly with clean water to remove all paste residue.
Wipe the surface completely dry with a clean soft cloth.

Repeat this process as needed for heavily soiled countertops. Regular overall cleaning with baking soda will keep quartz looking like new.

Spot Cleaning Stubborn Stains

For stubborn spots, spills, or built-up grime, you can use baking soda to spot clean:

Apply a generous amount of baking soda paste directly onto the stain or spot.
Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the baking soda to work at lifting and absorbing the grime.
Use a damp cloth to gently scrub the spot in a circular motion. Apply light pressure.
Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water and dry completely with a soft cloth.
Repeat as needed for tough stains until the quartz is clean.

Baking soda’s absorbing and deodorizing abilities allow it to tackle even old, set-in stains on quartz surfaces.

Cleaning With Baking Soda and Vinegar

For extra cleaning power on extremely dirty quartz, you can combine baking soda with vinegar:

Apply baking soda paste onto dirty areas as described above.
Let sit for 5-10 minutes.
Spray or wipe undiluted white vinegar directly onto the baking soda paste.
Allow the vinegar and baking soda to react and fizz for 2-3 minutes.
Scrub with a soft cloth or sponge. The chemical reaction helps release grime.
Rinse thoroughly and wipe completely dry.

Use this method occasionally for areas that need an extra boost. Avoid using vinegar too frequently, as the acidity can eventually dull the quartz shine.

Cleaning Countertops Around the Sink

The areas around a kitchen or bathroom sink tend to accumulate soap scum, toothpaste, and mineral deposits that can be challenging to remove. Baking soda is up for the task:

Apply a thick layer of baking soda paste to the quartz around the sink.
Let sit for 15-20 minutes.
Use a toothbrush or other small scrub brush to work the paste into the grime around the faucet, handles, drain, and other hard-to-reach areas.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Repeat as needed for stubborn buildup.

Baking soda’s abrasiveness can penetrate soap scum in a gentle way that restores shine. Be sure to keep paste away from any drain openings.

Cleaning With a Baking Soda Solution

For lighter everyday cleaning, you can also mix up a simple baking soda cleaning solution:

Add 1-2 tbsp baking soda to a spray bottle filled with warm water.
Shake vigorously to dissolve the baking soda.
Optionally, add a squirt of mild dish soap.
Spray directly onto quartz surface.
Wipe clean with a soft cloth.

This diluted baking soda solution helps lift everyday dust and fingerprints easily. Shake well before each use.

Tips for Using Baking Soda on Quartz

Follow these tips when using baking soda to clean quartz countertops:

Test paste on a small inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage finish.
Avoid scrubbing too aggressively, which can dull the surface over time.
Rinse thoroughly after cleaning to remove all soda residue.
Wipe up spills as soon as possible to avoid stains setting.
Use a soft cloth or sponge – never anything abrasive.
Avoid excessive moisture that can damage quartz or seep into seams.
Reseal quartz annually with a specialty quartz sealer for added protection.
For food-related stains, degrease with dish soap first before using baking soda.

Why Baking Soda Works on Quartz

There are a few key reasons why baking soda is so effective for cleaning quartz countertops:

Abrasiveness – The coarse texture of baking soda gently scours away dried-on gunk and stains without damaging the durable quartz finish.
Alkalinity – Baking soda is mildly alkaline, which helps lift grease and dissolve some deposits. It has a higher pH than quartz so it won’t harm the surface.
Absorption – Baking soda has absorption properties to help pull some staining compounds out of quartz.
Deodorizing – Soda helps freshen countertops by neutralizing odors left behind from food, garbage cans, etc.

Are There Any Risks to Using Baking Soda?

When used properly, baking soda is completely safe for cleaning all types of quartz countertops without any risks of damage. Here are some tips:

Don’t rub extremely hard when scrubbing, as the abrasiveness can eventually cause microscopic scratches if overused.
Avoid excessive moisture that can seep into sink joints or counter seams.
Don’t use on unsealed quartz, as moisture can penetrate the porous surface.
Don’t leave baking soda paste on too long, as the alkalinity can damage some finishes if left for an extended time.
Always rinse thoroughly to avoid a hazy residue on the quartz.

What Not to Use When Cleaning Quartz Countertops

It’s important to avoid certain cleaners and substances when cleaning quartz:

No acidic cleaners like vinegar, lemon juice, etc. which will etch and dull the surface.
No harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, alkali, etc.
No abrasive pads, scrubbing brushes, or sponges that can scratch.
Avoid getting strong oils like olive oil, grease, etc. on the surface.
No nail polish remover or paint removers like acetone.
Avoid any cleaners that contain dyes or pigments which can stain the quartz.

Stick to gentle cleaners like baking soda and mild dish soap to safely clean quartz without damage.

How Often Should I Clean Quartz Countertops?

Most experts recommend cleaning quartz at least once a week for maintenance. High-traffic areas like kitchen counters may need cleaning as often as:

Daily – Use a gentle cleaner like diluted baking soda solution to quickly wipe up spills, drips, and fingerprints as needed.
2-3 Times Per Week – Give a thorough cleaning of the overall surface using baking soda paste or other quartz-safe cleaner.
Monthly – Do a deep cleaning treatment using baking soda and vinegar to really brighten and restore shine.
Annually – Consider having quartz professionally restored by a reputable company to keep surfaces damage-free.

Always clean spills right away to prevent stains. Regular baking soda cleaning will keep quartz in tip-top shape.

Other Cleaning Alternatives

While baking soda is highly effective, there are some other good options for cleaning quartz countertops:

Mild dish soap – Diluted dish soap helps cut through grease and food residue.
Hydrogen peroxide – Helps sanitize and whiten quartz. Rinse thoroughly after use.
Ammonia-free glass cleaner – Safe for counters and leaves a nice streak-free shine. Avoid harsh ammoniated products.
Mr. Clean Magic Eraser – These melamine foam pads can lift some stubborn grime without scratching.
Vinegar – Helpful for disinfecting and removing hard water marks. Use sparingly to avoid dulling quartz over time.

Be sure to read labels and test any new cleaner in a small inconspicuous spot first to ensure it’s quartz-safe. Stick to gentle, non-abrasive products free of harsh chemicals.

Does Quartz Need to Be Sealed?

Unlike natural stone, quartz countertops are non-porous so they do not require regular sealing. With that said, it can be beneficial to have quartz sealed occasionally:

Helps prevent staining from spills seeping into microscopic pits and cracks.
Provides an added layer of protection against etching from acidic foods.
Allows for easier cleaning and maintenance between professional deep cleaning appointments.
Can help maintain the glossy finish longer, preventing dulling.

Sealing is usually done professionally as a service every 1-2 years. Be sure a specialty quartz sealer is used, not a stone sealer.

How to Remove Dried or Baked-On Food

Dried food, grease, or sugary spills that don’t get cleaned up quickly can bake onto quartz surfaces and become difficult to remove. Here are some tips:

First try baking soda paste. Let sit for 15-20 minutes before scrubbing. The alkalinity helps break down stubborn baked-on grime.
For burnt-on grease, degrease first with diluted dish soap using a soft cloth or sponge and elbow grease. Avoid abrasive scrubbers.
Use a plastic scraper to gently lift the edges of dried food. This helps release it from the countertop.
For stuck-on sugary deposits, dissolve the stain by covering with a damp paper towel and pressing with a warm iron set to a cotton or linen setting. Scrape away residue immediately with plastic scraper while still warm.
Avoid scraping aggressively or using metal scouring pads/abrasives which can scratch and damage the finish.

How to Remove Scuffs and Marks

Scuffs, scratches, marks, and other surface damage can occur on quartz over time with excessive wear and tear. Here are some options for removal:

Use a baking soda paste and soft cloth to gently rub out very minor scuffs. Rinse clean.
For light scratches, marks, and dull spots, restore shine with a quartz polishing kit. Use a foam polishing pad and rubbing compound to buff the blemish out without damaging surrounding areas.
Contact a professional quartz restoration company for repairing deep scratches, chips, or resurfacing extensive damage. They have specialty tools and compounds.
Very deep gouges or chunks missing may require a full quartz replacement. Luckily quartz repair and replacement is reasonably affordable compared to other countertop materials.

Take care to avoid direct heat and harsh chemicals on quartz. Trivets and cutting boards help minimize surface damage.

How to Remove Stains

Quartz is prone to staining from spills just like other surfaces. Here are some tips for stain removal:

For food/drink stains:

First scrape or wipe away any excess residue immediately.
Apply a baking soda paste to the stain. Allow to sit before scrubbing clean.
For tough organic stains, use hydrogen peroxide or diluted bleach. Avoid bleach overexposure.
Badly set in stains may require sanding and re-polishing professional help.

For ink, marker, or dye stains:

Dab denatured alcohol onto stain with soft cloth immediately to prevent setting. Avoid excessive rubbing.
For stubborn dried in stains, use baking soda paste or acetone nail polish remover carefully.
Avoid ink or marker near quartz, as many contain pigments that cause permanent staining.

For hard water or soap scum stains:

Use a vinegar-baking soda mix to help dissolve mineral deposits and soap residue.
For recurrent hard water spots near sinks, install a water softener system.
Mr Clean Magic Eraser also works well for surface soap scum removal.

No matter what type of stain, act fast for best results removing it. Quartz can be stained if spills are left to set.

How to Disinfect Quartz Countertops

Quartz has natural antibacterial properties to resist microbes, but periodic disinfecting keeps surfaces safe. Here are effective options:

Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide – Make a paste with 2 tbsp baking soda + 1 tbsp hydrogen peroxide. Spread onto surface, allow to sit 20 mins, then rinse clean.
Diluted bleach solution – Mix approx 1 tsp bleach into 1 quart water. Wet surface with solution, allow to sit 3-5 mins, then rinse thoroughly. Never mix bleach with other cleaners.
70% isopropyl alcohol – Wipe surface with alcohol soaked into a soft cloth. No need to rinse. Allow to fully air dry.
Lysol or Clorox disinfecting wipes – Use wipes rated for use on quartz. Wipe surface thoroughly according to product instructions. Allow to air dry, no rinsing needed.

Be sure to read and follow instructions for any disinfecting products used to avoid damage. Thorough rinsing is key.

How to Make Quartz Shine Like New Again

With regular care, quartz can maintain its high gloss for many years. But if your countertops are looking dull or scratched, try these steps restore them to a like-new shine:

Deep clean with a baking soda paste using a soft cloth andcircular scrubbing motions. Rinse thoroughly.
Use a quartz polish product specifically designed for quartz. Apply to surface with a microfiber cloth. Rub in circular motions. Repeat coats as needed per product directions.
For extremely dull or etched finishes, consider getting a professional quartz re-polishing service. They use specialized equipment and compounds to remove layers of damage and expose the glossy surface underneath. This restores the smooth finish.
Avoid wax-based polishes. Use polishing products specifically formulated for quartz. Waxes can yellow over time.
Prevent future dulling by using trivets and cutting boards. Reseal quartz every 1-2 years.

With some elbow grease and the right products, you can bring back the original shine and beauty of your quartz countertops.

Common Myths and Questions

There are some common misconceptions about cleaning and caring for quartz countertops. Here are some truths:

Myth: Quartz is maintenance-free.
Truth: While very low-maintenance, quartz still requires proper routine care like any surface.

Myth: You should seal quartz regularly.
Truth: Quartz doesn’t require sealing like natural stone. At most, occasional professional sealing is recommended for added protection.

Myth: All household cleaners are safe for quartz.
Truth: Harsh cleaners and chemicals can etch or discolor quartz. Mild cleaners are safest.

Myth: Quartz needs special cleaners.
Truth: Simple non-abrasive cleaners like baking soda, dish soap, and hydrogen peroxide work extremely well.

Myth: Quartz can’t be damaged.
Truth: Quartz is very durable but still prone to staining, scratching, and dulling without proper care.

Question: Can I use lemon juice or vinegar?
Answer: Avoid acidic cleaners which can dull and etch quartz over time with repeated use.

Conclusion

Cleaning quartz countertops with baking soda is a simple, safe, and effective way to keep them looking like new. With just baking soda, water, and a soft cloth,