Quartz countertops are quite trendy nowadays. Thanks to their uniform shape and design, they offer beautiful looks and are easy to work with. Beyond their aesthetics, quartz countertops have a low-maintenance like no other material. That is what makes them so special. Knowing how to clean and maintain your quartz countertops is crucial to keeping their original shine and beauty.
Essential Tools and Materials for Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Quartz is an engineered stone designed to be durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear while being low-maintenance. They are quite easy to clean when compared to natural stone countertops. Here is a list of materials you need to clean your quartz countertops.
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft microfiber cloth or sponge
- Paper towels
- Spray bottle (optional)
- Glass cleaner (optional)
- Razor blade or plastic putty knife (optional for stubborn stains)
Step-By-Step Guide to Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Cleaning your quartz countertops is as easy as a breeze, thanks to their non-porous surface. Here’s a step-by-step guide;
- Clear Your Countertop: You should start by removing all the items from your countertop to have a clean surface to work on. Removing all kitchen appliances, utensils, or any other objects will make it easier for you to clean your countertops.
- Dry Wipe: Wipe the surface of your countertops with paper towels to remove any dirt that can lead to scratches. Remember to be gentle while dry wiping. If not, you may end up scratching the surface.
- Cleaning: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water and apply it to the surface of your countertops with a soft microfiber cloth or sponge. You can optionally add this water in a spray bottle for even distribution on your countertops. Gently wipe down the entire surface of your countertop. Use circular motions to wipe away any dirt or stains.
- Rinse: Rinse the surface of your countertops with clean water thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Remember to use a new clean cloth or sponge for rinsing.
- Dry the Surface: Use a paper towel or a microfiber cloth to dry your countertops. Doing so will prevent leaving any water spots.
Stain Removal Techniques for Quartz Countertops
Sometimes stains can be persistent and can’t be removed by dish soap and warm water mixture. In such cases, rubbing alcohol and warm water might do the trick. Remember to follow the rinsing and drying of the surface steps to keep your quartz countertops looking pristine.
Alternatively, you can prepare a paste for cleaning tough stains. Mix some baking soda and water to create a thick consistency. A 50-50 water and hydrogen peroxide mixture should do the trick. Apply this paste to the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes. Apply warm water and gently scrub the area with a soft cloth or a sponge. Rinse and dry the surface.
Dried-on spills like gum or food can be hard to remove. You can scrape them off with a razor blade or plastic putty knife. Remember to use them at low angles to prevent any scratching or chipping.
Polishing Quartz Countertops for a Lasting Shine
As mentioned earlier, quartz is a non-porous stone that doesn’t require sealing. They are basically quartz crystals bound together with polymers and resins. You can use glass or commercial quartz cleaners to add some shine to your quartz countertops. Remember to apply them with a soft and clean cloth. Apply with circular motions and cover the whole surface. Lastly, buff the surface with a dry cloth. Doing so will result in a clean and shiny look for your quartz countertops.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Cleaning quartz countertops are definitely easier than most other materials. However, there are some common mistakes people make when cleaning them. You should be careful of these mistakes to keep them looking just like the first day and ensure they remain the same. Let’s explore some of the common mistakes people make when cleaning quartz countertops.
- Abrasive Cleaners: Avoiding abrasive cleaners is extremely important since they can scratch the surface of your quartz countertops. Using soft microfiber cloths or sponges is highly recommended.
- Harsh Chemicals: Acidic or harsh chemicals can damage the resins in your countertops, causing discoloration and dull looks. Using pH natural cleaners is a great way to prevent this.
- Bleach: Using bleach or ammonia-based cleaners can also lead to discolorations on your quartz countertops. If you wish to disinfect your quartz countertops, using diluted alcohol or simply dish soap and water mixture will be more than enough.
- Scraping: Quartz is durable; however, it isn’t immune to scratches. Scraping with metal tools or knives can end up damaging the surface of your quartz countertops.
- Not wiping spills instantly: Quartz countertops are stain-resistant, yes. But they can still be stained, especially if the spills are acidic. That is why cleaning any type of spill immediately is an excellent way to prevent permanent staining.
Tips for Quartz Countertop Maintenance
It is always essential to keep these tips in mind when cleaning and maintaining your quartz countertops.
- Always use trivets or hot pads when placing hot objects on your quartz countertops. The heat can damage the resins, resulting in discolorations and even structural damage.
- Use coasters if you are placing beverages on your countertops.
- Clean up spills immediately! Many liquids in kitchens are acidic; vinegar, lemon juice, wine, coffee, and even tomato sauces are all acidic. They can end up etching the surface of your quartz countertops.
- Quartz countertops are durable; however, they aren’t immune to damage. Remember to use cutting boards when preparing food. Sharp metal objects can scratch or chip your quartz countertops.
- Never use harsh chemicals, bleach, or oven cleaners directly on your quartz countertops. They can damage the resin binds in the quartz, resulting in etching and dull looks. Even if you use them to clean other materials, avoid spilling or spraying on your countertops.
- As mentioned earlier, avoiding abrasive cleaners is another excellent way to protect your quartz countertops. Soft clothes or paper towels are the better options since they can dull the surface.
- Most importantly, regularly clean your quartz countertops to prevent dirt or stain accumulation.
Quartz countertops are designed to be low-maintenance, all the while looking fabulous. However, it is vital to use these cleaning methods to keep them looking good. Regular cleaning and proper care will make your quartz countertops look amazing for years. It is essential to use these cleaning methods to preserve their beauty and longevity.
