How to Clean Natural Quartz Countertops

Natural quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, proper cleaning is still required to keep quartz looking its best. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to clean natural quartz countertops.

Supplies Needed

Mild dish soap or stone cleaner
Soft cloth or sponge
Water
Microfiber towel

Routine Cleaning

Use a soft, damp cloth or sponge with a small amount of mild dish soap and warm water.
Gently wipe the surface using circular motions. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft microfiber towel.
For best results, clean spills immediately. Quartz is stain-resistant but not stain-proof.

Tips for Routine Cleaning

Avoid harsh cleaning products like bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the quartz surface.
Vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and rubbing alcohol can also degrade sealers over time.
Don’t use abrasive sponges or scrub pads. Stick to soft cloths and sponges.
Thoroughly rinse off any soapy residue after cleaning.
Blot spills quickly to prevent staining, especially oil and grease.

Deep Cleaning

Every few months, give quartz counters a deeper cleaning:

Mix a countertop cleaner or mild soap with warm water in a bucket or spray bottle.
Apply the solution over the entire surface.
Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This gives the cleaner time to break up dirt and grime.
Scrub the quartz using a soft brush or cloth in circular motions.
Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean microfiber towel.

Tips for Deep Cleaning

Use a cleaner made specifically for natural stone. General purpose cleaners may be too harsh.
Make sure to get into grout lines and crevices where grime collects.
Rinse several times to remove all cleaner residue.
Buff dry with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.
Deep clean hoods and backsplashes too. Grease accumulates in these areas.

Sanitizing Your Countertops

To kill germs on your quartz:

Make a sanitizing solution of 2 tablespoons bleach per 1 quart of water. Or use an EPA-approved, quartz-safe disinfectant.
Apply the solution and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.

Tips for Sanitizing

Never mix bleach solution directly on quartz, as this could damage the surface.
Spot test sanitizers on a small area first to check for any discoloration.
Use a sanitizing solution weekly or as needed to reduce bacteria.
Thorough rinsing prevents bleach residue from damaging the quartz sealant.

Removing Stains and Scratches

Quartz is impressively resilient, but stains and scratches can happen. Here’s how to fix them:

For Stains:

First try cleaning with a stone cleaner, hydrogen peroxide, or baking soda paste.
For tougher stains, use a poultice made with alkaline cleaner and absorbent powder.
Let the poultice sit for 24 hours, then rinse. This draws out deep stains.
Consult a pro if stains persist, since harsh chemicals may be required.

For Scratches:

Use 220 to 400 grit sandpaper to gently smooth scratches.
Limit sanding to the affected area to avoid thinning the quartz.
Follow with a quartz-specific polishing compound to restore luster.

Preventing Stains and Scratches

Use cutting boards and trivets to protect from kitchen knives and hot pans.
Clean spills quickly before they set and stain.
Avoid abrasive scrubbers and powders that can scratch.
Have surfaces re-sealed every 2-3 years for optimal stain protection.

How to Clean Quartz Countertops Near The Sink

The area around the kitchen sink sees a lot of action. Follow these tips to keep it looking pristine:

Rinse the sink and wipe the counter dry after each use to prevent water marks.
Remove all cleaning bottles, sponges, and dish mats after cleaning to prevent lingering moisture.
Avoid abrasive scrubbers by the sink, as particles can scratch the quartz surface.
Clean more frequently, since food prep and doing dishes inevitably means more messes.
Apply cleansing conditioners to protect the quartz from repeated water exposure.
If liquids pool at the seam with the sink, sanitize with diluted bleach to prevent mildew growth.

Caring for Quartz Backsplashes

The sleek quartz backsplash complements your countertops beautifully, but also requires proper care:

Use a microfiber duster to remove cooking residue before it builds up.
When cleaning the counters, continue the soapy water up onto the backsplash too.
Give it a deep clean along with countertops every few months.
Check for drips and splatters after cooking that may stain if left overnight.
Avoid spraying cleaners directly onto the backsplash. Apply with a cloth instead.
Wipe standing water and moisture off with a squeegee or towel to prevent water marks.

Maintaining the Beauty of Quartz

With routine cleaning and some simple precautions, natural quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years. Avoid abrasives, sanitize regularly, clean spills quickly, and re-seal as needed. Contact a quartz restoration pro if stains or damage do occur. With proper care, you’ll enjoy durable, gorgeous quartz countertops that withstand the rigors of everyday life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean quartz countertops?
Clean quartz daily or after each use to remove spills, crumbs, etc. Deep clean every 1-3 months with a stone cleaner.

Can I use vinegar to clean quartz?
Vinegar is acidic so avoid using it long-term. It can erode the sealant. For occasional use, dilute vinegar with water.

What natural stone cleaner is best for quartz?
Look for a neutral pH stone cleaner made specifically for quartz. Popular brands include Granite Gold, Method, and StoneTech. Avoid general cleaners.

Can I use rubbing alcohol to disinfect quartz?
Yes, but don’t use it daily as it can dull the surface over time. Occasional use for sanitizing is fine. Just rinse it thoroughly.

What happens if quartz gets stained?
Try cleaning first with a poultice or alkaline cleaner. For stubborn stains, consult a professional about stronger chemicals to remove it.

Can I use magic eraser on quartz?
No, magic erasers are too abrasive for quartz. They create tiny scratches that dull the surface. Use a soft cloth with a specially formulated quartz cleaner instead.