Cleaning Quartz Countertops
- Use a mild soap and warm water to clean quartz. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads which can damage the surface.
- For stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner specifically formulated for quartz. Products like Soft Scrub Gel are safe to use.
- Disinfect quartz occasionally with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water). This helps kill bacteria.
- Avoid using alkaline solutions like oven cleaners as they can etch or discolor quartz.
- Use a microfiber cloth to wipe the surface when cleaning. Paper towels can scratch quartz.
Preventing Damage
- Always use a cutting board when preparing food on quartz. Knives can scratch the surface.
- Don’t place hot pans directly on quartz. Use a trivet or hot pad to prevent thermal shock.
- Seal any cracks that form near the sink with a restoration kit. This prevents moisture damage.
- Wipe up spills immediately before they have a chance to stain.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and solvents like paint removers or nail polish remover that can mar the finish.
Treating Etches and Scratches
- Minor scratches can often be buffed out using fine grit (400-600) sandpaper and a sanding block. Finish by polishing.
- Use a quartz repair kit for deeper scratches. This fills gouges with color-matched epoxy resin.
- Disguise small nicks by blending them with a quartz restoration pen.
- Consult a countertop specialist for resurfacing options if etching or damage is severe. This abrades away a thin layer.
Maintaining Appearance
- Reseal quartz every 1-2 years with a penetrating sealer to enhance stain resistance.
- To restore luster, use a stone polish made for engineered stone. Avoid wax-based products.
- Get professional help with stubborn stains like food dye that household cleaners cannot remove.
Handling Heat Damage
- Limit direct heat exposure when possible. Always use trivets and hot pads.
- Heat damage creates lighter spots on the surface. This can often be minimized by staining the area with a restoration pen.
- For deep cracks or blistering, wet sand with a 200 grit diamond pad and then restore with epoxy resin.
- If heat damage is widespread, getting a professional resurface may be required. This abrades away damaged layers.
Ensuring Proper Care by Others
- Educate others in the household on proper quartz care and cleaning methods.
- Do not allow appliance repairmen or contractors to abuse the surface by standing on it.
- Inform guests about using trivets and wiping up spills to prevent stains. Monitor to ensure compliance.
- For rentals, add a section in the lease about proper quartz use and care. Charge for any damages.
With regular cleaning and by taking preventative measures, quartz countertops will maintain their good looks for many years of heavy use. Avoiding abrasives and chemicals is key. Following these quartz care tips will keep this hardworking surface looking fabulous.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caring for Quartz Countertops
How often should quartz countertops be sealed?
Quartz countertops should be sealed every 1-2 years with a penetrating sealer designed for engineered stone. Regular sealing enhances stain resistance.
What’s the best way to remove dried food or grease stains?
For dried on stains, let a degreasing cleaner like Formula 409 sit on the spot for 5-10 minutes before wiping with a damp microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
My quartz has fine scratches from daily use. How can I smooth them out?
Use 400 grit sandpaper and rub lightly in a circular motion to reduce the visibility of minor scratches. Finish by buffing the surface.
Are quartz countertops heat resistant?
Quartz is more heat resistant than natural stone but prolonged direct heat exposure can cause damage. Always use trivets and hot pads to prevent burns.
How do you clean quartz countertops near a sink?
Use a diluted bleach solution weekly on areas near a sink to disinfect and prevent bacteria growth. Wipe any excess water to avoid moisture damage.
Can you cut food directly on quartz countertops?
It’s best to always use a cutting board to prevent dulling knives from scratching the quartz. Never cut anything abrasive like bones on the surface.
What household cleaners should be avoided on quartz?
Avoid alkaline cleaners, abrasives, oven cleaners, paint removers, and oil soaps. Only use cleaners specifically designed to be quartz-safe.
Will quartz stain from something like turmeric or beet juice?
Yes, it can be stained by harsh pigments. Immediately wipe up food prep messes then clean with a hydrogen peroxide cleaner to remove stains.
My contractor stood on my new quartz and cracked it. Can this be fixed?
Cracks or chips need to be repaired asap. Use epoxy resin from a stone repair kit to fill in the damaged section and prevent further issues.
Conclusion
Quartz delivers stylish good looks with heavy duty performance but still requires careful maintenance like any countertop. By using gentle cleaners, exercising caution against scratches and heat damage, and sealing the surface regularly, quartz can stay looking fresh. Avoiding harsh chemicals and immediately wiping spills prevents stains. With proper care, quartz countertops will last for decades.