Quartz countertops are a popular choice for modern homes and kitchens with their timeless beauty and durability. Made from a combination of ground quartz and resin, they are non-porous and stain resistant, making them a low-maintenance option.
Here are some of the reasons that makes quartz countertops special:
- Durability: Quartz is one of the most durable countertop materials on the market. It is resistant to scratches, stains, heat, and chemicals. This makes it a great choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
- Low maintenance: Quartz countertops are very low-maintenance. They do not require sealing like natural stone countertops. This means that you can simply wipe them down with a damp cloth to keep them clean.
- Variety of colors and styles: They come in a wide variety of colors and styles to match any decor. You can find quartz countertops that look like natural stone, such as granite or marble, or you can find more unique colors and patterns.
- Cost-effective: They are typically more affordable than natural stone countertops. However, they are still a high-end material.
While they’re great for areas of the house that are prone to spills and mess, they also need to be maintained to keep their great look. Discover the best and easiest ways to clean your quartz countertop.
How to Clean a Quartz Countertop
Quartz countertops are relatively easy to clean and maintain and don’t require a deep clean. Here’s what you need to do:
- Take all items off the countertop to make sure you’re able to reach all parts of the surface.
- Prepare a cleaning solution by mixing a few pumps of mild dish soap with warm water. You can do this in a small bowl or in a spray bottle for easier application.
- Apply the solution on the countertop. You can spray it on or dip a non-abrasive sponge on the solution you made and start spreading it on the countertop.
- Scrub in circular motions using the sponge, making sure you reach the edges and corners.
- Wipe off the solution with a microfiber cloth. Rinse the microfiber cloth and wipe the countertop again until it is no longer soapy.
- Finally, use a dry microfiber cloth to remove any excess moisture.
- Wipe off all items before returning them onto the countertop.
Items you need: mild soap, warm water, microfiber cloth, non-abrasive sponge
How to Treat Common Quartz Countertop Stains
While quartz countertops are non-porous and are highly resistant to stains, they are not 100% stain-proof. Here’s what you need to do to clean common quartz countertop stains:
- Grease and oil stains: Blot up as much of the grease or oil as possible with a paper towel. Then, mix equal parts dish soap and water and apply it to the stain with a sponge. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then wipe it away with a clean cloth.
- Red wine: Blot up as much of the wine as possible with a paper towel. Then, mix one part white vinegar with two parts water and apply it to the stain with a sponge. You can also directly apply hydrogen peroxide. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then wipe it away with a clean cloth.
- Coffee and tea: Use a paper towel to soak up as much of the coffee or tea as possible. Next, mix one part baking soda with two parts water and apply it to the stain with a sponge. Wipe it off with a clean cloth.
- Citrus and carbonated drinks: Orange just and cola are examples of acidic beverages. You can treat it similarly with coffee and tea. Just blot the spilled liquid with a paper towel, just use the mild dish soap and water solution to clean it.
- Ink: The best way to remove ink stains on a quartz countertop is with rubbing alcohol. Absorb as much of the ink using a paper towel. Then, apply rubbing alcohol on a cloth and rub that on the spot with stain to remove it.
- Food stains and cooking additives: Food and food additives like turmeric and beet can be unsightly and difficult to remove. Avoid the stain from setting by blotting it as soon as possible. Then, use hydrogen peroxide to clean it. Rinse and repeat until the stain is gone.
- Bleach stains: A paste made from hydrogen peroxide and talcum powder works best on bleach stains found on quartz countertops. Bleach stains may become permanent if it does not get attended to immediately.
How to Disinfect a Quartz Countertop
Naturally resistant to bacteria and mold, quartz countertops still need to be disinfected from time to time. Disinfecting your kitchen countertops will help prevent bacteria like E.coli and salmonella from food preparations.
Here’s what you can do:
- Remove all items from the countertop to make sure you reach all nooks and crannies.
- Prepare a solution of two parts isopropyl alcohol and one part water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the solution on the surface and use a microfiber cloth to wipe down your countertop thoroughly.
There is no need to rinse it off.
Items you need: Spray bottle, isopropyl alcohol, clean cloth
How to Clean Black Quartz Countertop
Black quartz countertops are especially susceptible to showing fingerprints and smudges. Here are some ways to keeping them clean:
- Wipe down the countertop with your mild dish soap solution daily, especially if it’s in a high traffic area like the kitchen. You may also double down and use the alcohol solution daily to disinfect it afterwards.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners because these can scratch the surface of the countertop.
How to Clean White Quartz Countertop
White quartz countertops look elegant and timeless in any home. This is how you can prevent watermarks and stains on them:
- Watermarks and stains can show more easily in white quartz countertops than other countertop colors. Be sure to wipe them down on a daily basis with a damp cloth washed with mild soap.
- Clean up any spills immediately.
- Some white quartz countertops require special cleaning products. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning instructions.
Important Tips to Properly Maintain Your Quartz Countertop
Follow these tips to help prolong the life of your countertops and keep them looking their best for many years to come.
- Do not use bleach or sodium hypochlorite to clean your countertops. It is a harsh chemical and it may damage the surface.
- You may use cleaning products like baking soda, vinegar, alcohol, and water to effectively clean the countertop.
- Avoid these compounds and substances which may damage your countertop: bleach, acid, abrasive cleaners, extreme heat, heavy objects that may chip the quartz, petroleum products which may discolor it, and solvents like acetone or paint thinner.
- Avoid placing hot pans or dishes directly on the countertop.
- Clean up all spills immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you still have questions about cleaning your quartz countertops, you might find some answers here:
What is the best way and ingredient to clean quartz countertops?
The best way to clean your quartz countertop will always be with a mild dish soap, water, and a clean cloth. Since it’s a non-porous material, it does not require heavy cleaning or maintenance. For as long as you wipe spills immediately and wipe your counter daily, you can keep it free from smudges, fingerprints, and watermarks.
Quartz vs. Quartzite: What’s the difference and how do you clean quartzite?
Quartz is man-made or mechanically engineered while a quartzite is natural stone. Both are used as materials for kitchen countertops, kitchen backsplash, or your bathroom counter.
Quartz is non-porous, which means they do not absorb mess like liquid spills. They are relatively easy to clean and maintain. On the other hand, quartzite can be cleaned similarly but they will absorb spills easier. It’s important to schedule a yearly sealing of your quartzite countertops to maintain a protective layer.
What are the white spots or white stains on my quartz countertop and how do I remove them?
These white stains are minerals left when hard water evaporates. It is unsightly and it loses the luster of your countertops. To clean it, simply make a paste of baking soda and warm water. Use this paste and lightly rub it on the stains then rinse it off after a few minutes.
