While countertop replacement may be inevitable at some point, you want the most out of your investment. Ideally, your quartz countertops should last for years. One key part of keeping them looking great is proper cleaning. So, how do you clean quartz countertops?
How Do You Clean Quartz Countertops?
Cleaning a quartz countertop will not always be the same. You will need different agents and techniques depending on the type of cleaning. For example, a routine daily cleaning will be different from a less frequent deep clean.
However, you will need to avoid certain chemicals and materials in all instances. Before we break down the different cleanings, we need to go over what not to do.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Due to the nature of quartz, certain items can damage it. In general, always check before cleaning any countertop to avoid damaging it.
With quartz countertops, you want to avoid anything that can scratch the surface. While quartz is resistant to scratches, it is not immune.
Avoid any of the following when cleaning your quartz countertops.
- Abrasive cleaners, pads, or sponges.
- Bleach, ammonia, acidic, or alkaline cleaners.
- Cleaning agents meant for removing pain or cleaning ovens.
How to Clean Quartz Countertops Daily
Daily maintenance takes only a few minutes and involves minimal effort. However, daily cleaning is vital. While quartz is nonporous, it can still pick up stains. Keeping it clean will help prevent longer-term discoloration.
To clean your countertop, start with a soft cloth (or sponge). Microfiber cloths can prove the best, balancing gentle fibers with effective cleaning. Use only warm water and a mild dish soap or all-purpose cleaner. This should prove sufficient for picking up any grease or mess.
To wrap up, rise thoroughly so no cleaner remains on the surface. Lastly, you can quickly wipe it dry with a paper towel or clean cloth.
How to Deal with Stains on Quartz Countertops
Tougher Stains
If you have a tougher stain, like coffee stains, you can use a nonabrasive glass cleaner. However, remember to check that it has no ammonia in it. Spray the cleaner over the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
Alternatively, you can use a baking soda mixture if you don’t have cleaner on hand. You can create this paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit.
You can then scrub at the stain with a soft brush (e.g., an old but soft toothbrush). Gently remove the stain without grinding the brush into the countertop.
Dealing with Grease
In most cases, even stubborn grease gives way to a mixture of warm water and dish soap. For more extensive grease, you can use some degreasers. But first check that the brand you will use is safe for quartz.
As with stains, you still want to take a gentler approach. Cleaning off grease is more about the right cleaner than scrubbing at it.
What If I Used the Wrong Material?
In most cases, using the wrong cleaner or cleaning device once should not cause lasting problems. However, over time, they can cause undue wear. However, using ammonia even once can weaken the resin bond of the surface. It can also lead to notable discoloration.
If you did use ammonia on a quartz countertop, don’t panic. Instead, put on a pair of gloves and use a wet sponge to quickly clean it away. Avoid pushing the ammonia to any new areas on the countertop. Instead, focus on diluting it to the point that it can all be safely removed.
Check with Your Provider
There can be slight differences in quartz countertops, depending on the manufacturer. Ask them about any specific care tips for your countertop. For example, perhaps they used a different kind of sealant or binding resin than other manufacturers. Always go with their advice over general advice.
When Is Cleaning Not Enough?
In some cases, a countertop might be beyond saving with mere cleaning. After 10 to 20 years, a countertop can begin showing its age. Chips or other wear can disrupt the surface, making stains more common. If you have had a quartz countertop for 20+ years, it may be time to consider a replacement.
The Premier Team for Countertops
Sharon Stone is a leading home remodeling contractor based in Silicon Valley with years of experience. Contact us for quartz countertops for your kitchen, bathroom, or anywhere else in your home.