Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance. However, like any surface, quartz can accumulate dirt, grime, and sticky residues over time that can be challenging to remove. This leads many homeowners to wonder: can I use Goo Gone on my quartz countertops to clean them?
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-94%. This combination creates a very hard, non-porous surface that resists scratches, stains, heat, and water.
Some key features of quartz countertops:
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Resists stains, scratches, heat, and water damage
- Non-porous so does not require sealing
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns
- Does not require polishing or waxing
Quartz’s durability and low maintenance requirements make it an excellent choice for busy kitchens and baths. With simple cleaning, quartz countertops can maintain their beautiful appearance for many years.
What is Goo Gone?
Goo Gone is a commercial cleaning product designed to remove sticky residues, grease, wax, and other hard-to-clean gunk from surfaces. It is a clear liquid gel formula that contains citrus oils to help break down adhesives and oils.
Some key facts about Goo Gone:
- Gel-based formula clings to vertical surfaces
- Citrus scent from orange oil extracts
- Removes sticker residue, grease, wax, grime
- Safe for many surfaces including glass, tile, granite
- Available as original, spray gel, or with scrubbing pads
Goo Gone is a popular cleaner because it can power through very stubborn messes that regular cleaners fail to budge. However, because it contains potent citrus oils, testing Goo Gone on a discreet spot is advisable before using it on any surface.
Can You Use Goo Gone on Quartz Countertops?
The short answer is yes, Goo Gone is generally safe to use on quartz countertops. However, there are a few important caveats:
- Spot test first – Goo Gone is a powerful cleaner. Always do a test spot in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface.
- Use the original formula – Goo Gone Original is the safest choice for quartz. The spray gels and scrubbing versions may be too abrasive. Never use industrial strength Goo Gone.
- Avoid seam and edges – Prevent Goo Gone from seeping into seams or edges where quartz material meets another surface. This could compromise waterproofing.
- Rinse thoroughly – Goo Gone leaves behind a citrus oil residue after removing gunk. Rinse the surface very thoroughly with clean water after using Goo Gone.
- Use sparingly – Goo Gone is designed for spot cleaning messes, not everyday cleaning. Use it sparingly only as needed.
- Don’t let it sit – Goo Gone should be applied and rinsed off in a reasonable timeframe. Don’t allow it to soak into the countertop.
With proper precautions, Goo Gone can safely tackle messes on quartz countertops without damaging the surface. Always refer to the manufacturer’s care recommendations as well.
How to Use Goo Gone on Quartz Countertops
Follow these steps to safely use Goo Gone on quartz:
1. Prepare the Quartz Surface
Clear everything off the countertop. Remove any food, containers, appliances, etc. Have a clean cloth or sponge ready to rinse.
2. Test Goo Gone on a Hidden Area
Apply a dime-sized amount of Goo Gone to an inconspicuous spot, like underneath the counter overhang. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes. Check for any reaction or damage.
3. Apply Goo Gone to the Messy Area
If no adverse reaction, apply a thin layer directly onto the sticky residue or gunk you want to remove.
4. Let It Sit Briefly
Allow the Goo Gone to sit for 1-2 minutes maximum. Do not let it sit for longer periods.
5. Agitate with Soft Cloth or Sponge
Gently wipe the area with light pressure to help break up the gunk. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
6. Rinse Thoroughly
Use a clean, damp cloth or sponge to rinse the Goo Gone residue away. Rinse several times until all citrus oil residue is gone.
7. Dry Completely
Make sure no moisture remains on the quartz surface after cleaning. Immediately dry with a soft towel.
8. Inspect the Area
Verify that the Goo Gone removed the residue without damaging the quartz. Repeat if needed for stubborn messes.
9. Clean and Dry Entire Surface
Once done spot cleaning, clean the entire countertop as usual with a quartz-safe cleaner and dry completely.
By using Goo Gone appropriately on quartz counters, you can safely eliminate tough gunk and restore your countertops to their original pristine look.
What to Avoid Using Goo Gone on Quartz
While Goo Gone can be used safely on quartz, some practices should be avoided:
- Never use industrial strength Goo Gone formulas
- Don’t apply Goo Gone to seam edges and wall joints
- Avoid excessive Goo Gone that could seep into cracks
- Don’t let Goo Gone sit for longer than 2-3 minutes
- Refrain from aggressive scrubbing or scouring pads
- Don’t use Goo Gone as an everyday cleaner
Using Goo Gone too liberally or aggressively can potentially etch, discolor, or damage quartz surfaces over time. Always spot test first.
How to Remove Other Messes from Quartz Countertops
While Goo Gone works well for sticky, greasy residues, there are other specific cleaners to use for various types of messes on quartz:
- Dried food stains – Use a baking soda paste and soft sponge
- Oils – Dish soap, diluted hydrogen peroxide, or ammonia work well
- Hard water marks – Citric acid powder or white vinegar remove these
- Soap scum – Liquid cleaners like Soft Scrub or baking soda paste
- Dried spills – Immediately clean spills before drying with water and dish soap
For everyday cleaning, warm water, a few drops of mild dish soap, and a soft sponge or microfiber cloth is all that is needed to keep quartz sparkling. Avoid abrasive pads.
Tips for Keeping Quartz Countertops Clean
Quartz requires very little maintenance if properly cared for. Here are some tips for keeping quartz surfaces clean:
- Wipe spills immediately to prevent stains
- Use cutting boards and trivets to protect from knives and hot pans
- Clean with soft sponges or cloths only – no abrasive pads
- Avoid using bleach or alkaline cleaners which can discolor
- Apply mineral oil periodically to enhance quartz’s shine
- Reseal once a year, especially around sinks and edges
- Deep clean annually with a stone cleaner or baking soda paste
With regular gentle cleaning and prompt mess removal, quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years. An occasional use of Goo Gone can help conquer those inevitable sticky spills.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Goo Gone on Quartz
Can I use Goo Gone daily to clean my quartz countertops?
No, Goo Gone should only be used for occasional spot stain removal. The citrus oils can damage quartz if used repeatedly. Use a regular quartz cleaner for daily cleaning.
What happens if Goo Gone sits on the countertop too long?
Goo Gone should be rinsed off within 2-3 minutes. If left longer, the citrus oils could etch into the surface leaving a mark. Prolonged exposure could damage the finish.
Is it okay to use Goo Gone spray gel on quartz?
It’s best to stick to original Goo Gone rather than the gels. Check your countertop manufacturer’s instructions to be sure. The spray gels may be too harsh.
Can Goo Gone remove permanent marker from a quartz countertop?
Yes, Goo Gone can often remove stubborn permanent marker stains. Apply a small amount and let it soak in briefly before gently wiping off. Rinse thoroughly.
How do I get dried food, grease, or oil stains off my quartz?
For these types of stains, use a baking soda paste, soft sponge, and some elbow grease. Or use a degreasing cleaner specifically made for quartz surfaces.
Conclusion
To summarize, Goo Gone is a safe and effective cleaner for occasional use on quartz countertops if proper precautions are taken. Always spot test first, never let it soak in for longer than 2-3 minutes, rinse thoroughly, and avoid using it as an everyday cleaner. With this specialized cleaner on hand for sticky spills and messes, it is easy to keep beautiful quartz countertops looking like new.