Supplies Needed
- Microfiber cloths
- Soft cotton cloths
- Mild liquid dish soap
- Granite polish or mineral oil
- Soft paintbrush or spray bottle
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
It’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or acid-based cleaners on quartz. These can damage the surface and cause discoloration. Mild dish soap diluted in water is usually safe for routine cleaning. Check the product guidelines before using any commercial countertop cleaner on quartz.
Step-by-Step Polishing Method
1. Clean the Surface
First, clean the countertop with a soft cloth and mild soap diluted in warm water to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using an abrasive sponge. Rinse well and dry the surface thoroughly with a lint-free microfiber cloth.
2. Apply Polish or Mineral Oil
Use a soft paintbrush or spray bottle to apply a thin layer of granite polish or mineral oil over the entire countertop. Avoid pouring directly from the bottle, as this can risk over-application and greasy residue. Spread the polish evenly across the surface.
3. Let Polish Soak
Allow the granite polish or mineral oil to soak in for 5-10 minutes. This gives the protective solution time to penetrate the quartz. As it soaks in, use a clean microfiber cloth to gently buff off any excess.
4. Polish the Surface
Using a fresh microfiber cloth, polish the countertop by rubbing in small circular motions. Apply light pressure as you buff. The goal is to create friction to bring out the quartz’s natural shine, not scrub aggressively.
5. Remove Residue
Use a dry cotton cloth to remove any leftover greasy residue from the polishing solution. Rub gently until the countertop has an even, streak-free appearance. Avoid using excessive pressure.
6. Seal and Protect
To help maintain the renewed shine, follow up by applying a thin layer of mineral oil. Spread it evenly across the surface using a fresh cloth. Let it soak in for 10 minutes, then thoroughly buff dry with a microfiber cloth.
Tips for Best Results
- Work in sections to polish and buff a small area at a time. This prevents polish from drying before buffing.
- Change cloths frequently to prevent residue buildup. Dirty cloths can leave streaks.
- Consider repeating steps 2-6 for an extra shine boost on neglected surfaces. But avoid over-polishing.
- Reapply mineral oil monthly to maintain the protective seal.
- Immediately clean up spills to prevent etching and water marks.
FAQs About DIY Quartz Polishing
How often should I polish my quartz countertop?
- For daily maintenance, polishing 1-2 times per year is usually sufficient. Clean with mild soap and water in between polishing. Polish more frequently if the surface gets dulled or etched from heavy use.
What household items can I use to polish quartz?
- Mineral oil, olive oil, and lemon oil are common pantry items that can substitute for commercial polish. Avoid wax-based polishes. Also use microfiber cloths rather than paper towels or rags.
Can I use a power polisher on my quartz countertop?
- Power polishers are not recommended for quartz. The friction can generate too much heat and damage the solid surface finish. Stick to hand polishing for the safest results.
Will polishing remove stains from my quartz countertop?
- Polishing helps remove light surface stains by gently abrasing the top layer. But deep stains require using a poultice made of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Contact a pro for stubborn stains.
What’s the difference between sealing and polishing quartz?
- Polishing cleans and creates shine, while sealing provides an ongoing protective barrier. Use mineral oil as a sealant after polishing. Commercial sealants are also available for added protection.
Conclusion
Polishing quartz countertops by hand is a simple and effective way to restore their original factory shine. With proper supplies and technique, DIY polishing can give your countertops a like-new appearance. Be sure to prep the surface thoroughly, work in small sections, and follow up with a mineral oil sealant to maintain the renewed luster. Take care to avoid harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing that could damage the quartz surface. Consistent care and hand polishing lets you enjoy gleaming quartz countertops for years to come.