Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. Made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments, quartz offers the look of natural stone with increased durability and stain resistance. However, quartz is not completely stain-proof, and measures must be taken to protect and maintain these beautiful countertops. Follow these tips to keep your quartz looking like new for years to come.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
The best defense against stains is regular cleaning and maintenance. Wipe up spills as soon as they happen, before they have a chance to set in. Use a pH-neutral cleaner made specifically for stone surfaces. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads, which can damage the surface over time.
Clean quartz at least once a week with a stone cleaner and soft cloth. This will remove dirt, grime, and residue that can build up and lead to staining. Disinfect periodically with a non-bleach stone safe disinfectant. This helps inhibit the growth of bacteria that contributes to stains.
Be sure to thoroughly rinse off any cleaning products, as residue left behind can attract more dirt. A squeegee can help remove excess water. Buff surfaces dry with a microfiber cloth after cleaning.
Protect from Heat
One of the biggest quartz countertop killers is excessive heat. The resins can melt or scorch if a hot pan, plate, or other item is left directly on the surface. Always use trivets, hot pads, or cooling racks when setting down anything hot.
Never place hot pans or baking sheets directly out of the oven or stove on your quartz. Allow cookware to cool sufficiently before setting it down. Avoid exposing quartz to temperatures above 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
Use Cutting Boards
Protect quartz from cut marks by always using cutting boards for food prep. While quartz is very durable, knives can still scratch and damage the surface over time. Cutting boards also make clean up easier when prepping meats and messy foods.
Choose a soft cutting board, rather than a hard plastic or wood board, to prevent accidental dings if a knife slips. Take care not to drag knives across the quartz when moving food from the cutting board to plates or pans.
Seal and Re-seal
Applying a penetrating sealant helps make quartz more stain resistant. It fills in microscopic pores that can let stains sink in over time. Reapply sealant once a year or as often as the manufacturer recommends. This renews the protective barrier.
Look for a water-based sealant specifically designed for quartz and natural stone. Avoid solvent-based products, which can damage certain quartz surfaces. Carefully follow instructions for application and curing time. Resealing is an important step in ongoing protection.
Beware of Stain-Causing Substances
While quartz stands up well compared to other materials, prolonged exposure to certain products can cause discoloration. Avoid letting the following substances sit on the surface:
- Wine, coffee, tea, and fruit juices – contain pigments that can stain.
- Oil and grease – can penetrate the surface and cause dark spots.
- Strongly colored foods like beets, turmeric, and berries.
- Acidic substances like lemon juice, vinegar, and tomato sauce.
- Liquid drain cleaners and oven cleaners contain harsh chemicals.
- Prolonged exposure to hair coloring and perm solutions.
Rinse these types of products off the quartz quickly if spilled. Do not let them sit or soak into the surface.
Deal with Stains Properly
If a stain develops, take action promptly. First try gently scrubbing with a stone cleaner and soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive pads or powders. For dried or stubborn stains:
- Make a paste with baking soda and water. Let sit for 5-10 minutes and scrub gently. Rinse well. The baking soda will help lift stains without harsh chemicals.
- Use a poultice designed for stone. This draws out deep set stains. Follow directions carefully.
- Consult a professional stone restoration company for problem stains. They have commercial grade cleaning solutions. Avoid bleach – it can discolor quartz.
Getting stains off early makes them easier to remove. Don’t let them set in over time. Contact a quartz fabricator if stains persist after cleaning attempts.
Exercise Caution with Chemicals
In addition to food and beverages, many common household products can stain quartz:
- Nail polish remover, perfumes, oils, and solvents.
- Toilet bowl cleaners and rust removers.
- Drain, oven, and tub cleaners.
- Plant food and fertilizer.
- Paints and dyes.
Keep these types of harsh chemicals off quartz surfaces. If accidentally spilled, wipe up immediately and rinse several times with clean water. Check that the surface is unharmed.
FAQs About Protecting Quartz Countertops
How can I get a wine stain out of my quartz?
Mix baking soda and water into a paste and gently scrub the stain. Rinse thoroughly. For a persistent stain, use a poultice or consult a professional stone cleaner. In the future, be sure to wipe up wine right away before it sets.
I chipped my quartz countertop. Now what?
Minor chips can often be repaired. Contact a professional quartz fabricator to fix small chips with color-matched epoxy filler. For deep gouges, the damaged section may need to be removed and replaced. Prevent chips by using cutting boards and avoiding hard impacts from heavy objects.
Are quartz countertops really stain proof?
No material is 100% stain proof. But quartz is highly resistant, especially compared to marble and granite. Be sure to reseal once a year and promptly clean up spills to keep quartz as stain resistant as possible. Avoid prolonged contact with known staining agents.
Why is it important to use trivets and cutting boards?
Direct heat and sharp knives are two of the biggest threats to quartz surfaces. Trivets and boards create a protective barrier so your countertop doesn’t get damaged. Make them part of your regular kitchen routine.
Does bleach damage quartz?
Yes, avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals that contain chlorine on quartz countertops. Even if diluted, it can discolor and corrode the surface over time. Use a stone-safe cleaner instead. For stubborn stains, try baking soda or consult a professional.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops add beauty and durability to any kitchen or bath. While resistant to staining, some care and precautions must be taken to keep them looking pristine. Allowing spills and stains to set will make them harder to remove. With regular cleaning and maintenance and avoidance of harsh chemicals, heat, and sharp objects, you can enjoy stunning quartz counters for years before needing to reseal or restore them. Protect your investment by handling them with care and getting stains removed promptly by a professional if needed. With some simple preventative steps, you can enjoy durable, low-maintenance quartz countertops.