Quartz countertops are popular choices for modern kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and low maintenance. However, there are some cleaners and substances that should be avoided on quartz surfaces to prevent damage. Here is an in-depth look at what you should not use on quartz countertops.
Avoid Abrasive Cleaners and Pads
Quartz is extremely durable, but the surface can be damaged by abrasive cleaners, pads, and sponges. Avoid using:
- Scouring powders like Comet or Bar Keepers Friend
- Magic erasers
- Steel wool pads
- Sandpaper
- Abrasive scrub sponges
The tiny particles in these abrasives can scratch and dull the surface over time. It’s better to stick to soft cloths, microfiber towels, and soft nylon-bristle brushes.
Don’t Use Chlorine Bleach
While bleach is effective at disinfecting and removing stains, it should never be used on quartz surfaces. The chemicals in bleach can damage and discolor quartz.
Instead, sanitize quartz with a mild dish soap and warm water. For stubborn stains, use a non-bleach cleaner made specifically for stone surfaces.
Avoid Harsh Solvents and Chemicals
Quartz is resistant to acids and alkaline solutions, but prolonged exposure can etch the surface. Do not use or expose quartz countertops to:
- Paint removers or thinners
- Drain cleaners
- Oven cleaners
- Tub and tile cleaners
- Toilet bowl cleaners
- Rust removers
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Acetone
- Furniture strippers
- Alcohol-based products
These harsh chemicals can damage the resin binders in quartz and cause etching or discoloration with prolonged exposure. Even nail polish remover should be avoided on quartz surfaces.
Don’t Cut Directly on the Surface
While quartz is marketed as harder than granite, the surface can still be damaged by sharp objects. Never cut foods directly on quartz countertops. Always use a cutting board. Quartz can dull knife blades faster than wood or plastic.
Cutting directly on the countertop risks deep scratches and cuts that cannot be repaired. The damage also makes the surface more prone to staining and buildup in the scratched areas.
Avoid Excessive Heat
Quartz countertops can withstand brief exposure to heat up to 300°F. However, the solid surface material can lose its shine, crack, or scorch if exposed to high heat for an extended period.
Do not place hot pots, pans, bakeware, or appliances directly on quartz surfaces. Always use trivets and hot pads. Avoid exposing quartz to open flames. The thermal shock can damage the material.
Don’t Use Vinegar or Citrus as Cleaners
Although acidic cleaners like vinegar, lemon juice, and citrus oils are effective degreasers, their acidity can damage quartz surfaces over time. Prolonged exposure to acids can etch the finish.
Stick to pH-neutral stone cleaners or mild dish soap and warm water. For hard water marks and soap scum, use a non-acidic cleaner made for stone.
Don’t Use Waxes or Polishes
Quartz countertops have a durable, non-porous finish that does not require waxes, polishes, or sealants. These products can build up on the surface and make it appear hazy or streaky over time.
Stick to damp mopping with warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner to maintain the factory finish. Avoid furniture polishes, waxes, ammonia, and silicone-based products.
Avoid Prolonged Exposure to Extreme Heat or Cold
The resin used to make quartz countertops can expand and contract slightly when exposed to temperature extremes. Over time, these fluctuations may cause the material to crack.
Avoid exposing quartz surfaces to very hot pots/pans or freezing temps for a prolonged period. Also, ensure installation adhesive cures properly before exposing to heat. Sudden temperature changes can shock the material.
Don’t Use Quartz Outdoors or Around Pools
Quartz countertops are designed for indoor use only. The material is not resistant to ultraviolet light exposure. Over time, the sun’s UV rays can cause fading and discoloration.
Also avoid installing quartz around swimming pools or hot tubs. The moisture and pool chemicals can damage the resin binders and cause etching or staining issues.
Exercise Caution with Ceramic Cookware
Unglazed ceramic cookware can scratch quartz countertops, while glazed bottoms may leave stubborn baked-on stains. If using ceramic cookware, always lift pans to move them – never slide across the quartz.
For glazed ceramic pots and pans, immediately clean any cooked-on oils or food residues after use to prevent staining. Avoid prolonged direct contact with extremely hot ceramic bottoms.
Don’t Use Quartz Outdoors or Around Pools
Quartz countertops are designed for indoor use only. The material is not resistant to ultraviolet light exposure. Over time, the sun’s UV rays can cause fading and discoloration.
Also avoid installing quartz around swimming pools or hot tubs. The moisture and pool chemicals can damage the resin binders and cause etching or staining issues.
Exercise Caution with Ceramic Cookware
Unglazed ceramic cookware can scratch quartz countertops, while glazed bottoms may leave stubborn baked-on stains. If using ceramic cookware, always lift pans to move them – never slide across the quartz.
For glazed ceramic pots and pans, immediately clean any cooked-on oils or food residues after use to prevent staining. Avoid prolonged direct contact with extremely hot ceramic bottoms.
Don’t Bang or Drop Heavy Objects
Although durable, quartz can potentially chip if very heavy or hard objects are dropped on the surface. Impacts from heavy pots or appliance can damage the material.
Be careful when handling cast iron cookware, stone mortar and pestles, or other extremely heavy kitchen items. Take care not to bang these items on the countertop. Dropping them from any height risks chipping or cracking.
Avoid DIY Quartz Repairs
Damaged areas or seams coming apart on a quartz countertop may tempt homeowners to try their own repairs. However, this often leads to more damage.
Never try to glue down lifting seams or fill chips/cracks with caulk or epoxy. This can ruin the look of the surrounding areas once the fillers stain or fail. Always call a pro.
Don’t Use Adhesives or Tape
Never adhere anything to the surface of quartz countertops with glue, epoxy, or tape. The adhesives can bond so strongly that they peel off a layer of the quartz when removed.
Likewise, window decor clings, stickers, or contact paper can damage the finish upon removal. Avoid adhering anything semi-permanent to the quartz.
FAQs About What Not to Use on Quartz Countertops
Is it OK to cut on quartz countertops?
Never cut directly on quartz countertops. Always use a cutting board. The surface can dull knives quickly and get scratched by sharp knife blades.
Can you set hot pans on quartz?
Avoid placing very hot pans directly on quartz. Use trivets or hot pads. While quartz can take brief heat exposure up to 300°F, prolonged direct heat can damage the solid surface material.
What happens if bleach gets on quartz?
Immediately flush the area with water if bleach splashes on quartz. Bleach can discolor and damage the surface. Clean with a mild soap and water. Bleach should never be used to clean quartz countertops.
Can you use Windex on quartz?
Avoid glass cleaners like Windex. The ammonia in these products can dull the surface. Use a specially formulated quartz cleaner or mild dish soap and warm water instead.
Is vinegar safe for cleaning quartz?
White vinegar should be avoided. Its acidic nature can etch and damage quartz over time. Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner instead. Vinegar can be used for cleaning grout near quartz.
Can quartz crack or chip?
Quartz is very durable but not damage-proof. Impacts from heavy objects dropped directly on quartz can potentially chip the surface. Thermal shock from extreme hot or cold can also damage quartz.
Conclusion
Quartz offers a beautiful, low-maintenance countertop option that stands up well to everyday use. However, some cleaners, chemicals, and conditions can damage these engineered stone surfaces. Avoid abrasives, acids, alkalis, adhesives, extreme heat or cold, and harsh impacts. With proper care, quartz countertops will retain their elegant appearance for many years. Handle these durable yet delicate surfaces with care and clean quartz correctly to protect your investment.