An Overview of Quartz Countertops

Before diving into using bleach on quartz, it helps to understand what exactly quartz countertops are made of. Here’s a quick overview:

• Quartz counters are engineered stone, meaning they are made from crushed quartz blended with resin, pigments, and other compounds.
• The result is a non-porous, hard, and durable surface resistant to scratches, stains, and heat.
• Quartz requires very little maintenance compared to natural stone.
• While tough, quartz can be damaged by excessive heat or impact. The surface should be cared for properly.

Can Bleach Be Used to Clean Quartz Countertops?

When it comes to keeping quartz clean and sparkling, bleach is not recommended by manufacturers or stone care experts. Here’s why:

• Bleach is highly alkaline. The alkaline chemicals found in bleach can damage and dissolve the resin used to make quartz countertops. This can corrode and pit the surface over time.
• It can discolor quartz. Bleach can react with pigments used to add color to certain quartz slabs, resulting in fading or discoloration. This damage is permanent.
• It leaves residue behind. Bleach leaves behind salty mineral deposits that can build up on quartz. This dulls the surface.
• Voids the warranty. Using bleach to clean quartz counters often voids the manufacturer’s warranty.
• Abrasive to seals. Bleach can break down specialty seals applied to quartz during fabrication. This reduces stain protection.

Recommended Cleaners for Quartz Countertops

To safely clean quartz countertops, stick to pH-neutral cleaners free from bleach or alkaline additives. Here are some recommended options:

• Mild dish soap and warm water. For routine cleaning, a bit of dish soap diluted in warm water can remove most dirt and residues.
• Stone-specific cleaners. Look for cleaners labeled for use on quartz, engineered stone, and other solid surfaces. Popular brands include Method and StoneTech.
• Hydrogen peroxide. As a mild disinfectant that breaks down into plain water, hydrogen peroxide is an effective and stone-safe cleaning option.
• Vinegar and water. For hard water stains, a 50:50 vinegar and water solution helps dissolve mineral deposits without damaging quartz.

Tips for Keeping Quartz Countertops Looking Like New

By using the right cleaners and maintenance strategies, quartz countertops can stay looking fresh and damage-free for decades. Follow these care tips:

• Wipe up spills immediately to prevent stains.
• Regularly clean surfaces with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.
• Avoid abrasive pads and powders that can scratch quartz.
• Use trivets and cutting boards to protect from hot items or sharp knives.
• Re-seal quartz every 1-2 years with a specialty stone sealer.
• For stubborn marks, scrub gently with a non-abrasive cleaner.

The Bottom Line

While bleach may be your go-to for sanitizing many surfaces, it should never be used on quartz countertops. The caustic chemicals found in bleach can damage quartz and void warranties. For expert results, stick to pH-neutral cleaners specifically formulated to clean and protect engineered stone. With proper care, your quartz counters will stay looking like new for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Using Bleach On Quartz Countertops

Can I use just a little bleach to clean my quartz counters?

No, even small amounts of bleach can damage quartz over time. The chemicals in bleach that make it effective at cleaning also corrode the resin in quartz. Any amount of bleach exposure risks voiding the manufacturer warranty. It’s best to avoid bleach entirely.

What happens if I accidentally got bleach on my quartz countertop?

First, rinse the area thoroughly with water to dilute the bleach. Then, clean with a quartz-safe cleaner and warm water to remove any residue. Check for immediate damage like discoloration. If damage is visible, contact a professional fabricator to assess and repair the counters. Be sure to avoid bleach in the future.

Is it okay to use bleach cleaners on the edges or backsplashes?

No – bleach should be avoided on all quartz surfaces, including vertical areas like backsplashes. The entire slab is vulnerable to damage, even if bleach only contacts a small portion. Play it safe and keep all quartz surfaces bleach-free.

Can’t I just use bleach occasionally as a deep clean?

It’s best not to use bleach even for occasional deep cleaning. Over years of occasional exposure, small damages can accumulate. Specialized stone cleaners provide a deeper clean without risking harm to the quartz. Alternate disinfectants like rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide can also be used.

I’ve used bleach on my counters for years without issue – so it’s safe, right?

Even if you haven’t noticed immediate damage, bleach residues may be accumulating or small etching taking place over time. The effects of bleach are gradual but permanent. Switching to a safer cleaner now will help your counters last longer rather than taking a gamble.

Are there any types of bleach that are safer for quartz?

No form of bleach is considered safe for use on quartz surfaces. Even “soft” bleaches contain chemicals like chlorine that can interact poorly with the compounds in quartz. Look for alternate disinfecting cleaners that are not bleach-based. Vinegar and hydrogen peroxide offer more stone-friendly options.

Conclusion

Quartz offers gorgeous, low-maintenance countertops, but only with proper care. Bypassing bleach cleaners helps prevent costly damage like etching, corrosion, and discoloration. For cleaning and disinfecting quartz counters safely, rely on mild pH-balanced soaps, stone-recommended cleaners, vinegar solutions, and hydrogen peroxide instead. With smart care, your quartz counters can stay looking like new for decades to come.