Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels thanks to their durability, ease of maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, there is some debate around the best cleaning products and methods to use on quartz surfaces. Many homeowners wonder – can you use regular glass cleaner on quartz countertops?
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-94%.
Some key features of quartz:
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant
- Stain resistant
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Resists heat and scorching
- Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns
Unlike natural stone counters like granite or marble, quartz does not need to be regularly sealed. The resin binding minimizes porosity and makes the material non-porous.
Is it Safe to Use Glass Cleaner on Quartz?
Yes, you can safely use glass cleaner on quartz countertops without worry. Quartz is an engineered non-porous surface designed to stand up to chemical cleaners without etching or discoloration.
Glass cleaner contains ingredients like ammonia, alcohol, and vinegar that cut through grease, soap scum, fingerprints, and other dirt. When used as directed, these active cleaning agents will not harm or interact negatively with quartz.
Using a glass cleaner to occasionally deep clean quartz countertops is an effective method recommended by many manufacturers.
Check the Quartz Manufacturer’s Recommendations
While glass cleaner is generally safe for use on any quartz surface, it’s wise to verify recommended cleaners with your specific brand.
Popular quartz manufacturers like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone provide care & maintenance guidelines on their websites. Checking these guides can give you peace of mind that using a glass cleaner won’t void warranties or damage the quartz.
How to Clean Quartz Countertops
For routine daily maintenance cleaning, soap and water is generally adequate for quartz countertops. Here are some best practices for keeping quartz clean:
1. Rinse with Water
Rinse off any spills or debris with warm water. Don’t let stains sit and dry on the surface.
2. Use Mild Soap
Apply a few drops of mild dish soap and warm water to a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid harsh detergents or soaps containing dyes, bleaches or other additives.
3. Scrub the Surface
Gently scrub the entire counter in circular motions to lift dirt and grime. Pay close attention to high-traffic areas around the sink and stove.
4. Rinse Thoroughly
Remove all suds and soap residue by rinsing thoroughly with clean water. Wipe dry with a soft towel.
5. Spot Clean Stubborn Stains
For stuck-on messes like dried food, grease, or hard water spots, use a soft scrubbing pad and glass cleaner, vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide. Test first in an inconspicuous spot.
6. Disinfect Periodically
Disinfect by wiping down all surfaces with a diluted bleach solution. This helps kill germs and bacteria.
7. Avoid Abrasives
Never use abrasive pads or scouring powders that can scratch the quartz finish.
8. Seal After Deep Cleaning
Apply a quartz sealant like Granite Gold Daily Cleaner after deep cleaning to add extra protection.
9. Prevent Heat Damage
Always use trivets or hot pads under hot pans and baking dishes straight from the oven. Rapid temperature changes can damage quartz.
The Benefits of Using Glass Cleaner on Quartz
Using a specialized glass cleaner offers some advantages for occasional deep cleaning of quartz countertops:
Removes Stubborn Grime – Ingredients like ammonia, vinegar, and alcohol help dissolve and cut through stubborn oil, grease, soap scum, and grimy buildup.
Streak-Free Shine – Glass cleaners leave behind a beautiful streak-free shine without any residue. Quartz will look like new.
Sanitizes Surface – Many glass cleaners contain antimicrobial ingredients to sanitize and disinfect the countertop.
pH Neutral – Most glass cleaners are pH balanced and won’t negatively react with the quartz surface.
Convenient and Effective – Glass cleaners offer an easy convenient cleaning solution found in any grocery store.
Best Glass Cleaners for Quartz Countertops
These trusted brand name glass cleaners reliably and safely clean quartz:
Windex Original Glass Cleaner
The classic blue Windex is a solid choice that cleans and disinfects in one easy step. Contains ammonia for cutting through grease.
Method Daily Granite & Stone Cleaner Spray
This natural derived stone cleaner from Method uses citric acid and plant-based alcohol to dissolve soap scum.
Lysol Daily Cleanser Multi-Surface Cleaner
The Lysol daily cleanser is streak-free, antimicrobial, and safe for use on quartz countertops and other surfaces.
Sprayway Glass Cleaner
Sprayway’s ammonia-free formula uses grease-cutting alcohol and cleans quartz without leaving streaks or residue.
Clorox Disinfecting Bathroom Cleaner
The cleansing power of bleach disinfects surfaces in this cleaner from Clorox. Just need to rinse surfaces after use.
Granite Gold Daily Cleaner
Specifically formulated for natural stone, Granite Gold is a daily spray cleaner safe for quartz countertops.
DIY Natural Glass Cleaner Recipe
To save money, an effective glass cleaner can also be made at home with simple natural ingredients:
Supplies Needed:
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup vinegar (cleans and disinfects)
- 1/2 tsp natural liquid soap (removes grease)
- Spray bottle
Directions:
- Add the warm water, vinegar, and liquid soap to the spray bottle.
- Shake vigorously to mix and dissolve the soap.
- Spray a light mist directly onto the quartz surface.
- Wipe clean with a soft cloth, microfiber towel, or sponge.
- Buff dry with a clean towel.
This frugal DIY cleaner will safely clean and shine up quartz counters using the natural cleaning power of vinegar. Feel free to adjust the vinegar amount based on cleaning needs.
How Often Should You Clean Quartz Countertops?
- Daily: Quick wipe down with damp soapy microfiber cloth
- Weekly: Thorough cleaning with warm soapy water or mild stone cleaner
- Monthly: Disinfect surfaces with diluted bleach solution
- Every 6 months: Deep clean with glass cleaner, vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide
Increase cleaning frequency around cooking and dining areas where counters see heavier use. Always clean spills promptly to prevent staining.
Can You Use Other Cleaners on Quartz?
While glass cleaner is a good option, there are a few other recommended cleaners for periodic deep cleaning of quartz:
- Vinegar – The acetic acid in vinegar breaks up grime and disinfects. Mix 1 cup of vinegar with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
- Hydrogen Peroxide – The bubbling action of peroxide helps lift stains. Use a 3% solution.
- Ammonia – Diluted to 1 cup ammonia to 1 gallon of water, ammonia cleans and disinfects quartz surfaces. Works similar to glass cleaners.
- Rubbing Alcohol – The solvent properties in isopropyl alcohol can remove stubborn dried-on messes.
Always avoid harsh chemicals like oven cleaners, mineral spirits, paint removers, drain cleaners, etc which can interact badly with the resin and etch the surface. Stick to cleaners specifically formulated for stone and quartz.
What Not to Use on Quartz Countertops
It’s important to avoid these damaging cleaners and substances:
✘ Abrasive scouring powders
✘ Aggressive acidic cleaners like toilet bowl cleaners
✘ Alkaline cleaners such as bleach or ammonia without diluting
✘ Abrasive pads, brushes, or sponges
✘ Harsh solvents like paint remover, nail polish remover
✘ Vacuum cleaners or electric polishers
✘ Leaving spills like wine, coffee, or fruit juice sitting too long
Any cleaners that are too harsh or acidic can etch or dull the surface over time. Always read labels and check if a cleaner is recommended for stone. When in doubt, stick to mild dish soap and water.
Can You Use Bleach on Quartz Countertops?
As a powerful alkaline cleaner, straight undiluted bleach can damage or discolor quartz surfaces. However, diluted bleach is safe for occasional use to sanitize and disinfect quartz countertops.
The CDC recommends doing a thorough disinfection of kitchen surfaces at least once a week. Here are some tips for safely using diluted bleach on quartz:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of bleach per 1 gallon of water. This equals about a 1:100 dilution ratio.
- Apply the diluted solution with a clean sponge or cloth. Avoid excessive scrubbing.
- Let the bleach sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water.
- Spot test first in an inconspicuous area to check for any possible adverse effects.
- Increase ventilation by opening windows to avoid breathing irritating bleach fumes.
- Never mix bleach with vinegar or ammonia – this creates toxic chlorine gas.
- Rinse twice with clean water and wipe completely dry when done.
Regular disinfection of quartz kitchen counters with the proper bleach dilution is an effective way to kill germs and bacteria without damaging the surface.
How to Remove Stains from Quartz Countertops
Quartz resists stains remarkably well, but some absorbed spills can leave a stain if not cleaned promptly. Here are some tips for removing common stains:
Grease and Oil Stains – Degrease with baking soda and water paste or an alkaline cleaner like Soft Scrub.
Food and Drink Stains – Scrub with a wet magic eraser sponge or non-abrasive scrubbing pad.
Mold and Mildew Stains – Use hydrogen peroxide or diluted bleach. Improve ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
Hard Water Stains – Clean built-up limescale deposits with white vinegar or lemon juice.
Rust Stains – Make a paste with cream of tartar and water and scrub.
Ink Marks – Carefully dab denatured alcohol on the stain and wipe to lift.
Candle Wax – Allow wax to harden completely then gently scrape away with a plastic card.
For an unknown stain, start with a mild cleaning approach and test in an inconspicuous spot first. Avoid abrasive scrubbing on stains which can damage the finish.
How to Prevent Quartz Countertop Stains
Preventing stains in the first place is ideal to keep quartz counters looking like new. Here are some tips:
- Use cutting boards, trivets and hot pads under hot pans or dishes straight from the oven.
- Clean up food and drink spills immediately before staining can occur.
- Seal quartz every 6-12 months with a quality sealant like Granite Gold.
- Avoid letting oils, vinegars, wines, and acidic foods sit on the surface.
- Promptly dry any water marks or spills to prevent water spots.
With regular cleaning and prompt spill removal, quartz counters will stay beautiful and stain-free for many years.
Quartz Countertop Care Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
✔ Use trivets and hot pads under hot pans
✔ Clean spills quickly to avoid stains
✔ Use mild dish soap and water for daily cleaning
✔ Disinfect surfaces periodically with diluted bleach
✔ Clean with glass cleaner, vinegar or hydrogen peroxide
✔ Reseal quartz every 6-12 months
Don’t:
✘ Use abrasive scouring pads or powders
✘ Allow spills to sit and dry on the surface
✘ Use highly acidic or alkaline cleaners
✘ Use vacuum cleaners or electric polishers
✘ Use paint remover, nail polish remover or mineral spirits
Following the manufacturer’s care guidelines and using the proper cleaning methods will keep quartz counters pristine and prevent damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it absolutely safe to use Windex or other glass cleaners on quartz?
Yes, glass cleaners like Windex are 100% safe for cleaning quartz countertops. The active ingredients will not etch, cloud or damage properly sealed quartz. Always spot test first.
How often should I disinfect my quartz countertops?
Disinfect high use areas like kitchen counters at least once per week using diluted bleach. Clean any spills immediately to prevent germs from spreading.
What’s the best homemade natural quartz cleaner?
An effective DIY cleaner is 1 cup water, 1/4 cup vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon liquid soap. The vinegar disinfects while the soap cuts through grease.
Will lemon juice or vinegar damage my quartz countertop?
No – diluted vinegar, lemon juice, and citric acid cleaners are safe for periodic use on quartz since they have a low pH. Avoid prolonged exposure.
How can I restore the shine to dull quartz?
Restore the glossy finish by applying a quartz polish like HO Hope’s Quartz Polish and Buffing Cream. Avoid wax or polishes that leave residue.
I accidentally damaged my quartz countertop. How can I fix it?
Minor damage like light scratches can be buffed out by a professional quartz fabricator. Deep scratches may require a full resurfacing. Contact the manufacturer.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning is important for both the beauty and longevity of quartz countertops. While mild dish soap and water works for daily upkeep, occasionally deep cleaning with a glass cleaner offers a convenient and effective way to remove stuck-on messes without harming quartz surfaces.
Glass cleaners like Windex, Lysol, and Method contain grease-cutting ammonia, alcohol, and vinegar that will not negatively interact with properly sealed quartz. Always spot test cleaners first and follow the manufacturer’s care guidelines.
Pair routine cleaning with prompt spill removal and prevention methods like using trivets. With the proper care, quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years before needing professional restoration. Treat quartz counters with gentle cleaners and they will retain their flawless shine and durability.