Quartz countertops are popular in many homes due to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. While quartz is resistant to stains, spills and scratches, it still requires routine cleaning to keep it looking like new. With the right natural cleaning products and techniques, you can easily clean quartz countertops without using harsh chemicals.
Why Use Natural Products to Clean Quartz
There are several benefits to using natural products to clean quartz countertops:
- Gentler on surfaces: Natural cleaners like vinegar, baking soda and lemon are effective at removing dirt and stains without being abrasive or damaging to the quartz surface. Harsh chemicals and scrubbing can dull and etch quartz over time.
- Better for the environment: Natural products avoid toxic chemicals that get washed down the drain and enter our waterways. Choosing plant-based, biodegradable ingredients is better for maintaining a healthy home.
- Cost savings: Simple natural products like vinegar, lemon juice and soap are very affordable compared to specialty quartz cleaners and degreasers sold in stores.
- Safe for food surfaces: Natural cleaners rinse away cleanly without leaving toxic residues that could contaminate food preparation areas. Always rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
How to Routinely Clean Quartz Countertops
For routine daily or weekly cleaning, simple natural products easily remove common stains on quartz:
Dish Soap and Water
Add a few drops of mild dish soap like Seventh Generation or Dr. Bronner’s to warm water. Apply using a soft sponge or microfiber cloth. Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry. Avoid bleach-containing soaps.
Vinegar and Water
Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Wipe down quartz with a soft cloth dipped in the solution. Vinegar is great for removing grease, grime and hard water marks.
Baking Soda
Make a paste with baking soda and water. Gently scrub stains with a soft bristle brush or sponge. Baking soda has natural deodorizing and polishing abilities. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Use 3% hydrogen peroxide diluted with some water to lift stains. Apply with a soft cloth and let sit for several minutes before rinsing. Be careful not to get hydrogen peroxide on bare hands.
Olive Oil
Rub a small amount of olive oil on a soft cloth to polish away fingerprints and water marks on quartz. Wipe the excess oil away and follow with dish soap if needed.
How to Thoroughly Clean Quartz Countertops
For a deeper clean, use these natural cleaning methods for quartz:
Remove Odors with Lemon and Baking Soda
If you notice lingering food odors in your quartz, try this natural deodorizing trick:
- Slice a lemon and place the slices on the quartz surface.
- Sprinkle baking soda over the top of the lemon slices.
- Let sit for 15-30 minutes before rinsing away with warm water.
The acidity in lemon helps break down odors while the baking soda absorbs and neutralizes smells.
Whiten with Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda
To gently whiten and brighten quartz countertops:
- Make a paste with 2 parts baking soda and 1 part hydrogen peroxide.
- Apply the paste to stained areas of the quartz using a soft bristle brush or sponge.
- Let sit for up to an hour before rinsing thoroughly with warm water.
Shine and Polish with Olive Oil and Lemon
Natural olive oil combined with fresh lemon juice makes an effective DIY polish for quartz surfaces:
- Squeeze 1 tablespoon lemon juice into a bowl.
- Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and mix into a paste.
- Rub the mixture over the quartz using circular motions.
- Let sit for 10 minutes before wiping and rinsing clean.
The oil and acidity in the lemon work together to dissolve residue and leave a shiny polished finish.
Remove Hard Water Stains with Vinegar
To treat stubborn hard water stains on quartz:
- Cover stains with undiluted white vinegar.
- Let the vinegar sit for 30-60 minutes.
- Scrub with a soft bristle brush or plastic scraper.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Dry well with a soft cloth.
The acetic acid in vinegar will help dissolve mineral deposits left behind by hard water.
Tips for Ongoing Quartz Countertop Care
Follow these tips to keep how to clean quartz countertops with natural products looking like new:
- Wipe up spills quickly to prevent staining, especially oils, wines and acidic liquids like juice.
- Avoid abrasive pads, powders or scrub brushes that could scratch the surface.
- Use a cutting board and trivets to protect from knives and hot pans.
- Reseal the joints every 6-12 months with color-matched caulk to prevent moisture damage.
- Avoid exposing quartz to strong chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners or drain cleaners.
- Thoroughly rinse and dry after cleaning. Trapped moisture can damage quartz over time.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cleaning Quartz Naturally
Is it okay to use bleach or ammonia on my quartz countertop?
No, avoid bleach, ammonia, and other harsh chemicals. They can discolor or corrode the resin binding quartz. Only use mild dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, vinegar or natural citrus cleaners.
What’s the best way to sanitize quartz surfaces?
Mix together 1/2 cup white vinegar and 1 cup warm water. Wipe the quartz down using a microfiber cloth dipped in this solution to naturally sanitize.
How can I get rid of hard water marks on my quartz countertop?
Cover the marks with undiluted white vinegar and let sit for 30-60 minutes. Then scrub with a soft bristle brush and rinse. The vinegar will help dissolve the mineral deposits causing the hard water stains.
Is it okay to use olive oil to treat quartz?
Yes, a small amount of olive oil makes a great natural polish to remove fingerprints and water marks on quartz countertops. Wipe away excess oil and follow with a mild soap and water wash if needed.
How often should I seal the joints in my quartz countertops?
It’s recommended to seal countertop joints with color-matched caulk every 6-12 months. This prevents moisture from seeping underneath and causing damage over time.
Conclusion
Cleaning quartz countertops without harsh chemicals is simple with the power of natural ingredients like vinegar, lemon, baking soda and olive oil. Following these DIY recipes and techniques will keep how to clean quartz countertops with natural products looking like new while being safe for your home and the environment. Be sure to rinse thoroughly after cleaning and wipe spills quickly to prevent stains. With some gentle scrubbing and natural sanitizing, you can maintain the beauty of quartz surfaces for years to come.