Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Use a mild soap and water – Quartz is non-porous, so a mild soap and water is usually sufficient for regular cleaning. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Clean spills quickly – Immediately wipe up spills, especially acidic substances like wine, vinegar, and lemon juice which can etch the surface.
Use a non-abrasive soft cloth or sponge – This prevents scratching the surface. Microfiber cloths work well.
Try a simple DIY cleaner – Mix together distilled white vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio in a spray bottle. Spritz on the quartz and wipe clean with a soft cloth. The vinegar helps remove soap residue.
Use a quartz cleaner occasionally – For a deeper clean, use a specially formulated quartz cleaner. This helps remove stuck on grime.
Protecting Quartz Countertops
Use trivets and hot pads – Always use trivets or pads under hot pans and dishes to prevent thermal shock. Sudden extreme temperature changes can damage quartz.
Cut on a separate surface – Avoid cutting directly on the quartz. Use a cutting board to protect the surface.
Wipe up spills quickly – Don’t let liquids sit on the quartz. Blot up spills immediately before they have a chance to soak in and stain.
Avoid harsh chemicals – Steer clear of strong chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners, etc which can discolor the surface.
Apply a sealer occasionally – A penetrating quartz sealer adds extra protection from stains and etching. Reapply every 1-2 years.
Protect from direct sunlight – Prolonged UV exposure can cause quartz to fade and discolor over time. Use window treatments in sunny spots.
Removing Stains from Quartz
Dab stain with baking soda – Make a paste of baking soda and water and gently rub onto the stain using a soft cloth. Rinse clean. The baking soda draws out stains.
Try a hydrogen peroxide cleaner – Mix hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap and apply to the stain. Let sit briefly before scrubbing and rinsing.
Use a poultice – For stubborn stains, make a poultice using flour, hydrogen peroxide, and water. Apply to the stain overnight and rinse. The poultice pulls out deep set stains.
Lightly sand with fine grit sandpaper – For etched spots or residue, use a delicate hand to softly sand the area with 600 grit wet-dry sandpaper. This gently buffs the spots away.
Spot treat with acetone – For hard water spots and mineral deposits, dip a cotton ball in acetone and dab on the stain. Rinse immediately so it doesn’t harm the surrounding area.
How to Care for Man Made Quartz Countertops FAQs
How do you get water spots off quartz?
Gently rub the water spots with a damp cloth dipped in a mild abrasive like baking soda. You can also use a specially formulated quartz polish. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Can you use vinegar to clean quartz countertops?
Yes, you can safely clean quartz with a vinegar and water solution. Mix 1 part vinegar with 1 part water and wipe down the counters with a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly. Don’t let the vinegar sit too long.
What should you not use to clean quartz?
Avoid abrasive cleaners, strong alkaline chemicals, bathroom cleaners, bleach, SOS pads, and scrubbing pads. These can dull the surface, scratch, or discolor quartz.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
It’s optional but recommended. Quartz is non-porous and won’t absorb stains easily, but a penetrating sealer provides added protection. Reapply sealer every 1-2 years.
Can you use Windex on quartz?
Yes, Windex and other mild glass cleaners are safe for cleaning quartz. Avoid using harsh chemicals or anything acidic. Always rinse the surface thoroughly after cleaning.
Conclusion
Caring for quartz countertops involves maintaining the surface with gentle, non-abrasive cleaners and protecting it from damage. By using trivets, wiping up spills quickly, and avoiding harsh chemicals, you can keep quartz looking like new for many years. An occasional sealer application also helps safeguard against stains and etching. With regular care and maintenance, man made quartz provides a beautiful, durable countertop surface.