Using an Instant Pot can make cooking at home quick and easy. However, choosing the right surface to place your Instant Pot on is important for safety and preventing damage. Many homeowners wonder if quartz countertops can withstand the heat from an Instant Pot. Here is what you need to know about using an Instant Pot on quartz countertops.

What is Quartz?

Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, have become a popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling. Quartz is made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The result is an attractive, non-porous surface that is stain, scratch, and heat resistant.

Quartz is an excellent choice for countertops because of its durability and low maintenance requirements. Unlike natural stone, quartz does not need to be sealed to prevent stains. It resists scratches better than granite and does not etch from acids found in citrus, vinegar, and some cleaners.

Heat Tolerance of Quartz

When considering heat tolerance, quartz performs better than many other countertop materials. Granite, for example, can crack under extreme direct heat. Quartz is generally not damaged by normal cooking heats.

According to manufacturer specifications, most quartz can withstand temperatures up to 212°F before damage occurs. Some quartz is engineered to withstand brief exposure to temperatures up to 300°F without damage.

Is It Safe to Use an Instant Pot on Quartz?

An Instant Pot reaches temperatures between 208°F and 250°F when pressure cooking. Since this falls within quartz’s heat tolerance range, it is generally safe to use an Instant Pot directly on a quartz countertop.

However, there are some precautions to take:

Use a heat-resistant pad – Placing an Instant Pot on a silicone or cork pad can help insulate the quartz from direct heat. This provides an extra buffer against any extreme temperatures.
Avoid prolonged heat exposure – Do not leave an Instant Pot running for hours at maximum temperatures. Quartz can withstand brief heat exposure but may sustain damage if subjected to very high heat for extended periods.
Watch for cracks or discoloration – Minor crackling or discoloration around an Instant Pot may be a sign the quartz is stressed by the heat. Discontinue use in that area if damage appears.
Check manufacturer guidelines – Some quartz formulations may be less tolerant of heat. Consult your countertop manufacturer’s care guide for any specific heat warnings.

Best Practices for Using an Instant Pot on Quartz

Following a few simple guidelines will allow you to safely use your Instant Pot on a quartz countertop:

Place on a heat-resistant silicone pad or trivet. This provides insulation against extreme heat. Cork pads also work well.
Avoid prolonged pressure cooking times. Most recipes take 30 minutes or less. Limit use to an hour or less when possible.
Allow the Instant Pot to cool before moving or cleaning. Letting the pot remain in place until cooled reduces temperature spikes.
Clean up any splatters, drips or spills promptly. Don’t allow food particles or liquids to sit on quartz for long periods.
Lift the Instant Pot to move it, do not slide across the quartz. This reduces the risk of scratching or damaging the surface.
Check the countertop periodically for any signs of discoloration or cracks around the Instant Pot. Discontinue use in that spot if damage emerges.

The Bottom Line

Quartz countertops are durable enough to withstand the typical heat range of an Instant Pot. Following basic precautions like using a trivet and limiting prolonged exposure will allow you to safely pressure cook on your quartz countertops. Avoid leaving an Instant Pot running for multiple hours at maximum heat and always check for any emerging signs of damage around the base. With some care and caution, quartz offers an excellent non-porous, stain-resistant surface for Instant Pot cooking.

Can I Put an Instant Pot on a Quartz Countertop? – FAQ

Below are some frequently asked questions about using an Instant Pot on quartz countertops:

Is it safe to put a hot Instant Pot directly on quartz?

It’s best to use a silicone trivet or pad underneath a hot Instant Pot to protect quartz from direct, sustained heat exposure. Quartz can likely withstand brief contact with the temperatures an Instant Pot generates, but prolonged direct heat could cause cracks or discoloration over time.

What temperature can quartz withstand?

Most quartz countertops are engineered to be undamaged by temperatures up to 212°F. Some higher-end quartz may withstand temperatures up to 300°F briefly. Instant Pots reach around 208°F to 250°F while pressure cooking.

Why shouldn’t I slide an Instant Pot on quartz?

Dragging or sliding an Instant Pot risks scratching or damaging the surface of quartz. It’s best to fully lift and place an Instant Pot when moving it to avoid scraping across the countertop.

Can hot liquid from an Instant Pot damage quartz?

Quartz resists damage from brief contact with hot liquids. However, letting liquids sit on quartz for prolonged periods can potentially stain or dull the finish. Clean up any spills or drips promptly after removing dishes from an Instant Pot.

How can I prevent damaging quartz with an Instant Pot?

Use a heat-resistant pad or trivet under the Instant Pot, limit continuous pressure cooking times, allow the pot to fully cool before moving, promptly clean spills, and lift the pot instead of sliding when moving it. Also, inspect quartz periodically for any cracks or discoloration.

Should I only use an Instant Pot in certain spots on quartz?

To distribute heat exposure, it’s best to periodically change where you place the Instant Pot on quartz countertops. Avoid repeatedly using it in the exact same location day after day. Rotate to different spots to minimize potential damage in one area.

What are signs my quartz was damaged by Instant Pot use?

Look for any cracks, discoloration, or etching around the areas where the Instant Pot makes contact with the countertop. Damage is most likely to show on the underside of the quartz directly exposed to heat. Any signs of damage mean you should discontinue Instant Pot use in that spot.

How can I revive dull spots on quartz from an Instant Pot?

Use a polish made specifically for quartz to restore any dull or etched areas. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbers which could further damage the surface. Damaged quartz may need professional refinishing if polishing fails to restore the finish.

Should I get thicker quartz countertops for Instant Pot use?

Thicker quartz is not necessarily more heat resistant. More important is the specific resin formulations used in the quartz. Follow manufacturer guidelines and use recommended heat protection like trivets for best results, regardless of quartz thickness.

Conclusion

With proper care, you can safely use an Instant Pot on quartz countertops without damage. Small precautions like using a trivet, restricting prolonged heat exposure, and immediately cleaning up spills will allow you to enjoy the convenience of pressure cooking without compromising the beauty of your quartz surfaces. Pay attention for any emerging signs of damage and be prepared to discontinue Instant Pot use in problem areas. Taking some simple steps will ensure your quartz countertops withstand everything your Instant Pot can dish out.