If you are searching for a comprehensive guide to caring for your quartz countertops, you have come to the right place. You might also be here because you are considering installing quartz counters and want to know how much maintenance is involved. Either way, you are making the right decision.
A few years ago, my husband and I decided to install white quartz countertops in our kitchen and bathroom, and let me tell you, it was the best decision we made.
Quartz is such a durable material, and our countertops still look as beautiful as the day we got them, thanks to proper care and maintenance.
In this post, I will share in detail all of our top tips for cleaning and maintaining your quartz surfaces to keep them in excellent condition for years to come.
Some of these tips came from our quartz supplier, so you can rest assured that they are expert advice straight from the source.
General Everyday Cleaning of Quartz Countertops
In order to keep your quartz countertops in excellent condition, I recommend cleaning them daily with a gentle dish soap and water solution. We personally follow this routine every evening before bed.
Regular cleaning is essential to prevent any stains or dirt on the surface from accumulating and becoming more challenging to remove over time.
By incorporating a daily cleaning routine, you can easily maintain the pristine appearance of your countertops. Here’s a sample daily cleaning routine to guide you:
Daily cleaning routine (A)
Materials needed
- Dry microfibre cloth
- Non-abrasive sponge
- Warm water
- Dish soap
Instructions
- Wet the sponge and add a small amount of dish soap, or prepare a bowl or sink with some soapy water.
- Clean the countertop in a circular motion using the sponge, ensuring that the entire surface is covered.
- Run the microfibre cloth under warm tap water and wring it out until it is damp.
- Wipe the soap off the countertop in an s-pattern, using the damp microfibre cloth.
- Repeat the wiping process until all the soap residue is thoroughly removed from the countertop.
Daily cleaning routine (B)
Here’s an alternative daily routine that is suitable if you prefer a spray and wipe method. We use this method throughout the day.
Materials needed:
- Dry microfibre cloth
- All-purpose spray
Instructions:
- Generously spray the countertop surface with the all-purpose spray.
- Wipe the surface from top to bottom, following an s-pattern motion, using the dry microfibre cloth.
- Allow the countertop to air dry completely.
You can also create your own all-purpose cleaner by mixing your preferred cleaning solution in a spray bottle, which can be used for your everyday cleaning needs.
See below the products to avoid before attempting this.
By following this routine, you can maintain the cleanliness and shine of your quartz countertops with ease.
Best cleaners for general cleaning of quartz countertops
According to our quartz supplier , here are the best products for general cleaning:
- Dish soap: Any mild dish soap will get rid of surface germs. It is mild enough for everyday use
- All-purpose cleaner: Opt for a mild all-purpose cleaner that does not contain bleach
Deep Cleaning Quartz Countertops
No matter how well you clean your quartz countertops on a daily basis, occasional deep cleaning is necessary to keep them looking new.
Deep cleaning can be done once a month or whenever you notice the surface starting to look dull.
It’s crucial to use the appropriate products specifically designed for quartz countertop surfaces.
While quartz is highly durable, using the wrong surface cleaner can potentially cause irreversible damage.
The deep cleaning process can be divided into three phases: cleaning, spot cleaning, and polishing.
Here’s a step-by-step process you can follow:
Materials needed
- Non-abrasive sponge
- Dedicated quartz cleaner
- Water
- Mild dish soap
- Soft cloth
- Stain remover, such as Bar Keepers Friend
Instructions
- Clear the surface of your countertop. This step makes it easier to clean and prevents any products from damaging items placed on the surface.
- Clean the countertop using mild soapy water, just as you would for your regular daily cleaning routine.
- Wipe the surface in an s-pattern motion with a damp cloth.
- Inspect the countertop for any stubborn stains or buildup in the corners or specific areas. If you notice any set stains, use a suitable stain remover like Bar Keepers Friend, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Go over the counters again with a dedicated quartz cleaner such as Bar Keepers Friend Granite & Stone Cleaner & Polish, following the instructions on the bottle
- After cleaning, leave the countertop to air dry naturally
By following this deep cleaning process, you can effectively refresh the appearance of your quartz countertops and keep them in excellent condition.
Best cleaners for deep cleaning of quartz countertops
- Granite and Quartz worktop cleaner:
- Bar Keepers Friend Granite & Stone Cleaner & Polish
- Tesco Granite and Marble Cleaner
- Unika Granite and Quartz Worktop Cleaner Spray
- Method Granite & Marble Spray
- Stain remover
- Cif Cream Cleaner
- Astonish Oven Cleaner
Stains and Spills
It’s inevitable to get stains on your countertops, especially in a well-loved kitchen.
However, having the right tools at your disposal can make stain removal a breeze.
While there are numerous tips available online, it’s important to note that many of these so-called hacks can actually damage your quartz countertop, as advised by our trusted quartz manufacturer.
Quartz countertops are composed of a blend of quartz and resin, which means you need to be mindful of the products you use to treat stains.
Here are some effective quartz stain treatment products that I personally recommend:
- Magic Eraser/Melamine Sponge: This sponge requires a bit more effort, but it’s worth it. Gently go over the stain multiple times, and you’ll see it disappear without compromising the quality of your countertops.
- The Pink Stuff: This mild detergent acts as a gentle buffer that effectively removes more stubborn stains. I always keep a tub of this product handy for quick and easy stain removal.
- Bar Keepers Friend: Similar to The Pink Stuff, this powdered cleaner is excellent for buffing out surface stains. It’s a more potent cleaner, so I reserve its use for tougher stains and avoid regular use.
By following these stain removal techniques, you can ensure that your quartz countertop surface retains its beautiful appearance for many years to come.
Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions for specific cleaning and maintenance recommendations.
Quartz Maintenance Tips
Materials and Products to Avoid
- Bleach: Avoid using bleach on your quartz countertops as it can cause discolouration and may even weaken the resin over time.
- Vinegar: Although many people think vinegar will give them clean quartz countertops, it’s best to avoid it. The acidic nature of vinegar can potentially damage the surface and cause long-term harm when used on a regular basis.
- Nail Polish Remover or Alcohol: Both nail polish remover and alcohol are very harsh chemicals. Although they treat tough stains, they can cause permanent damage to your quartz countertops. It’s advisable not to use them.
- Citric Acid: While citric acid is very effective for certain cleaning tasks, long-term use of citric acid or citric acid-based cleaners on quartz surfaces can cause discolouration.
- Window Cleaner: Many window cleaners may seem harmless but they contain ammonia, which can be harmful to quartz countertops. Avoid using window cleaners as they may dull the surface.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Placing hot items directly: To protect your quartz countertops from heat damage, always use hot pads when placing hot pots or pans on the surface. Direct heat can cause thermal shock and potentially lead to discolouration overtime.
- Cutting on the surface or sharp objects: While quartz is very durable, it is not scratch resistant. Small scratches can build up over time and dull the surface. To avoid this, always use a cutting board when cutting or slicing food.
- Direct sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can lead to colour fading and potential damage to your quartz countertops. However, according to our quartz supplier, they have noted that sun reflection does not necessarily damage the surface. It is the prolonged exposure to the elements, such as leaving quartz outside, that can cause significant damage. So, if you have a skylight that shines on your countertops all day, there’s no need to worry.
Caring for your quartz countertops is essential to maintain their beauty and longevity. By following the proper care and maintenance routine, you can ensure that your countertops remain in excellent condition for years to come.
In addition to the tips shared, I encourage you to consider speaking to your quartz manufacturers and suppliers. The resources they provide will be extremely valuable and tailored to your specific countertop.
Investing effort and time into properly caring for them will pay off, as you’ll be able to enjoy clean, beautiful quartz countertops for many years to come.
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