The Right Way to Clean Quartz Countertops
Cleaning quartz countertops will ensure the durable material doesn't become dull over time.
Quartz is a popular countertop material due to its reputation for being easy to maintain. The manmade stone's biggest draw is that it is non-porous, which means it doesn't need to be re-sealed like other materials. Additionally, quartz is heat resistant, so you can put hot pots and pans on it if you run out of stovetop space. Despite how easy quartz is to care for, cleaning it is essential to ensure it continues looking its best. The best part? All it takes is a little soap and water before your quartz countertops are good as new again.
Related: How to Clean and Maintain Butcher Block Countertops
Why Cleaning Quartz Countertops Is Important
Quartz is a popular countertop material because of its beauty, but that appeal can dwindle if it isn't taken care of. "It's also important to keep them clean if they're in your kitchen or bathroom for sanitary reasons and to prevent contamination," says Warren Weiss of Scrub! Residential Cleaning. Additionally, neglecting quartz countertops can make it harder to remove stains and spills later on.
Dos and Don'ts of Cleaning Quartz Countertops
While quartz is a highly durable and heat-resistant material, there are some dos and don'ts when it comes to cleaning the surface.
Dos
Do clean your quartz countertops after each use. "If you prepare a meal on your countertop, clean it up when you're done. If you spill something on there, clean it up," says Weiss. "Another big do for me is going over the countertop with a dry microfiber cloth after cleaning to make the countertop shine."
Don'ts
Don't use any abrasive cleaners or sponges in order to prevent scratches on your quartz countertop. "Also, bleach and other harsh chemicals that can dull the countertops should be avoided," says Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid, A Neighborly Company.
How Often to Clean Quartz Countertops
Cleaning your quartz countertops every day is best practice, especially if they're located in the kitchen or bathroom. However, if they're in a low traffic area of your home, cleaning them after each use is fine.
Materials Needed
Make sure you have these materials on hand before getting started.
Microfiber cloth(s)
Dish soap
Water
All-purpose cleaner
Hydrogen peroxide
Related: How to Clean Every Type of Kitchen Countertop
How to Clean Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are easy to clean using a little soap and water. Alternatively, you can clean them using an all-purpose cleaner as long as it doesn't contain harsh chemicals.
Use a microfiber cloth to remove any hardened food or liquid.
Apply a dab of dish soap and warm water to a microfiber cloth.
Wipe away any food residue, grease, crumbs, or other debris.
Squirt an all purpose cleaner on your countertops to remove any remaining streaks and smudges.
Wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.
How to Remove Stains From Quartz Countertops
The best way to remove stains from quartz countertops is to act quickly when spills occur, which will prevent any discoloration. "If you do see a bit of discoloration, you can try a basic cleaning solution of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water," says Melissa Poepping, the founder of The Chemical Free Home. Spray the stained area with the cleaning solution and scrub it clean with a microfiber cloth. Once the stain is gone, remove any remaining residue with a damp microfiber cloth, then wipe dry.
Tips for Maintaining Quartz Countertops
The most important step when it comes to maintaining a quartz countertop is to clean it immediately after use and buff it regularly with a clean microfiber cloth. Additionally, you should always wipe it dry after cleaning. "Quartz, if left to air dry, can leave streaks but if you immediately wipe the surface dry after cleaning, the results are perfection," says Poepping.
