Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects thanks to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, it’s important to know what cleaners and products are safe to use on quartz to avoid damaging the surface. Here is a comprehensive guide on caring for quartz countertops and what is safe to use on them.
Cleaning Quartz Countertops
- Warm water and mild dish soap – For regular cleaning, a mild detergent or dish soap in warm water is ideal for cleaning quartz. Make sure to use a soft cloth or sponge and avoid abrasive scrubbing. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
- pH-neutral stone cleaner – For a deeper clean, a store-bought stone cleaner with a neutral pH is safe for quartz. Look for cleaners specially formulated for engineered stone.
- Baking soda – A paste of baking soda and water can help remove stains and discoloration. Rinse well after using.
- Hydrogen peroxide – Mixing hydrogen peroxide with some dish soap can help eliminate stubborn stains. Be sure to test on a small spot first.
- Vinegar – A 50/50 vinegar and water solution helps remove grease and cleans quartz effectively. Avoid using undiluted vinegar.
What Not to Use on Quartz
- Abrasive cleansers – Avoid products with grit, such as Comet or Ajax, as they can create scratches.
- Alkaline cleaners – Steer clear of harsh degreasers and alkaline cleaners which can etch and damage quartz.
- Oven cleaners – Products with high alkaline levels designed for oven cleaning should never be used on quartz.
- Citrus or vinegar cleaners – Concentrated acidic cleaners have the potential to dull and etch quartz surfaces. Always dilute citrus or vinegar solutions.
- Bleach solutions – Prolonged exposure to bleach can discolor and pit quartz. Never mix bleach and vinegar together either.
- Alcohol – While alcohol won’t necessarily damage quartz, it can strip off sealants and make the surface prone to etching.
- Ammonia – Quartz is vulnerable to alkaline chemicals so avoid ammonia-based cleaners.
Maintaining and Protecting Quartz
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent stains – Quartz is stain resistant but not stain proof. Quickly wiping up food and drinks prevents long-term issues.
- Use cutting boards and trivets – Always use cutting boards when cutting and trivets or pads under hot pans to avoid scratching.
- Clean regularly with a damp microfiber cloth – Simple upkeep cleaning keeps quartz looking its best.
- Reapply sealant yearly – Having quartz resealed annually helps protect shine and prevent etching.
- Avoid placing extremely hot items directly on quartz – While heat resistant, direct high heat exposure can damage quartz over time.
What is Safe to Use on Quartz Countertops? – FAQs
Is quartz actually maintenance free?
While quartz is very low maintenance compared to other surfaces, routine cleaning and care is still required to keep quartz counters looking pristine. Be sure to wipe up spills when they occur and clean quartz regularly with soap and water.
Can you use bleach to clean quartz?
No, bleach has the potential to damage, discolor and pit quartz surfaces. Always opt for a mild dish soap and water or a specially formulated quartz cleaner instead of bleach solutions.
What natural remedies can I use?
Hydrogen peroxide, diluted vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can all be effective for cleaning quartz. Just be sure to rinse well and not leave acidic cleaners on too long. Avoid abrasive ingredients like salt.
How do you remove dried or stubborn stains?
For stuck-on food and dried spills, let a damp cloth soaked in a quartz cleaning product sit on the spot for 5-10 minutes. This softens the mess before gently scrubbing with a non-abrasive sponge.
Can you use bathroom cleaners on kitchen quartz?
It’s best to avoid that. Bathroom disinfecting cleaners and products containing bleach are too harsh for kitchen quartz. Pick an all-purpose cleaner specifically made for quartz instead.
What should I do if something damages my quartz?
For light scratches, a surface polish or buffing pad can help minimize visible marks. But deep scratches, chips or cracks will likely require a professional fabricator to refinish or repair the quartz.
Conclusion
Quartz offers versatility and low maintenance for busy kitchens and bathrooms. By using only pH-neutral soaps and recommended stone cleaners, quartz countertops will retain their beauty and durability for many years. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives. With proper care and routine cleaning, quartz counters will stay looking like new. Follow these best practices and your quartz surfaces will shine strong.