What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, have become immensely popular in recent years as an alternative to natural stone surfaces like granite and marble. Quartz is made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polymer resins and pigments. The result is a durable, non-porous material that resists scratches, stains, and heat.
Compared to natural stone, quartz requires very little maintenance. But it still needs regular cleaning to keep it free of dirt, grime, and bacteria buildup. Using a mild alkaline cleaner like baking soda helps remove grime and restore quartz’s shine without damaging the surface.
Benefits of Using Baking Soda to Clean Quartz
Here are some of the top reasons to use baking soda for cleaning quartz countertops:
- Gentle abrasive action – Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can break down and lift away dirt and stains when used as a paste or scrub. This helps deep clean quartz without scratching or dulling the surface.
- Neutralizes odors – Baking soda naturally neutralizes odors rather than just masking them. This makes it great for eliminating food odors left on quartz counters.
- Safe for sealants – Since baking soda is pH balanced, it won’t degrade stone sealants or etch quartz the way acidic cleaners can over time.
- ** Eco-friendly** – Baking soda is a natural cleaner without harsh chemicals, making it a good eco-friendly option for quartz. It’s biodegradable and phosphate-free.
- Readily available – As a common household staple, baking soda for cleaning is convenient and budget-friendly. There’s no need to buy specialized quartz cleaners.
How to Use Baking Soda on Quartz Countertops
Cleaning quartz with baking soda is a simple process. Here are the recommended steps:
1. Remove Surface Debris
First, wipe countertops with a damp microfiber cloth to remove any loose dirt and debris. Remove stuck-on food or spills by gently scraping with a plastic spatula.
2. Make Baking Soda Paste
In a small bowl, mix together:
- 1 part baking soda
- 1 part water
Stir until it forms a spreadable paste. For tougher dirt, you can use a higher concentration of baking soda.
3. Apply Baking Soda Paste
Spread the baking soda paste onto quartz counters using a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive scrubbers.
Let the paste sit for 5-10 minutes so it can break down grime.
4. Scrub and Rinse
Scrub the pasted areas using gentle circular motions. Pay extra attention to stained or dirty spots.
Rinse countertops thoroughly with clean water to remove all baking soda paste residue.
5. Dry Surface
Wipe counters dry with a clean, soft towel. Buffing as you dry helps restore quartz’s beautiful shine.
Baking Soda Cleaning Tips for Quartz
- Stick to gentle scrubbing to avoid scratching quartz.
- For dried spills or tough stains, let the baking soda paste sit for longer before scrubbing.
- Use a soft bristle brush for grout lines and textured areas.
- Mix in a few drops of mild dish soap to boost grease-cutting power.
- Follow up with a quartz polish or sealant to enhance shine and protection.
- Avoid baking soda on unsealed quartz since it can etch the surface over time.
- Rinse thoroughly so no baking soda residue is left behind.
How Often to Clean Quartz Countertops
- Daily – Use a soapy sponge or microfiber cloth to spot clean.
- Weekly – Clean entire surface with baking soda paste or quartz cleaner.
- Monthly – Polish with a pH-neutral quartz polish to boost shine.
- Every 6 months – Reseal quartz to reinforce stain protection.
More frequent cleaning may be needed for heavily used kitchen counters. Always blot spills as soon as they occur to prevent stains. An annual deep clean is also a good idea for counters that see a lot of action.
Is Baking Soda Safe for All Quartz Brands?
Baking soda is safe for most major quartz brands including Caesarstone, Cambria, Silestone, Viatera, Vicostone, and Zodiac. Avoid using baking soda or other alkaline cleaners on unsealed quartz surfaces.
It’s always best to check the manufacturer’s care and maintenance guide to see if baking soda is recommended. If unsure, do a test spot on an inconspicuous area first.
Some quartz products also have specific cleaners made for that brand. For example, Cambria has their own Cambria Quartz Cleaner and Silestone recommends using the Silestone Daily Cleaner.
Other Quartz Countertop Cleaning Tips
- Use coasters under glasses and avoid direct heat exposure to prevent marks.
- Promptly wipe up spills, especially oils, wines, and fruits juices that can stain.
- For stuck-on food or residue, scrape gently with a plastic spatula.
- Disinfect quartz periodically with a sanitizing stone cleaner.
- Avoid abrasive pads, scouring powders, or bleach that could scratch.
- Rinse cleaning solutions thoroughly to prevent etching or buildup.
Conclusion
Baking soda is an effective eco-friendly cleaner for quartz countertops. Its abrasive-yet-gentle formula cleans without damaging quartz surfaces. To use baking soda on quartz, make a paste, apply, let sit, scrub, and rinse thoroughly. Regular cleaning with baking soda will keep quartz counters looking like new for many years. Be sure to refer to the manufacturer’s care guide for their specific recommendations.
Can I use baking soda to clean quartz countertops? Yes, baking soda is generally considered a safe, gentle, and effective option for routine quartz countertop cleaning. It removes grime buildup without damaging the quartz surface when used properly. Make a paste with baking soda and water and follow with thorough rinsing to keep quartz counters clean and beautiful.