While beautiful, quartz countertops can get damaged pretty easily if you don't use the right precautions or use harsh abrasive cleaners. Learn the proper quartz countertop cleaners and how to clean your quartz countertops from routine care to stubborn stains.
How to Clean Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are beautiful. When it comes to functional aesthetics in your home, they can really make your kitchen. However, they should also come with a stamp saying proceed with caution. To learn the proper methods for your quartz countertop cleaners, you'll need:
- Mild dish soap
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Plastic spatula or scraper
- Rubbing alcohol
- Glass cleaner
- Castile soap
- Spray bottle
- Goo Gone (or DIY goo gone)
- Commercial quartz polish
Routine Quartz Countertop Cleaner
When it comes to routine everyday quartz countertop cleaners, you'll want to reach for the mild dish soap and cloth.
- In the sink or a bowl, mix 2 to 3 cups of warm water with a drop of dish soap.
- Dip the rag in the water and soap mixture.
- Gently wipe down the countertops.
- For areas with suck on grime, let the water sit on the counter for about 5 minutes.
- Wipe the area.
- Repeat as needed.
Removing Dried On Gunk
Sometimes a little water bath isn't enough for some serious crusted food. In that case, you'll need to grab your spatula or a plastic scraper.
- Allow soap and water to soak on the area for about 5 minutes.
- Use the scraper to carefully scrape up the gunk.
- Remember, gentle is key. You don't want to scratch your countertop.
- Wipe the area.
Grease Cleaning Quartz Countertop Cleaner
Dish soap is usually a good degreaser. However, sometimes, it just isn't cutting the greasy mess. In this case, you'll want to bring out the big guns.
- In a spray bottle, combine:
- 1 tablespoon of castile soap
- 2 cups of water
- ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol
- Spray the area generously.
- Allow it to sit for a few minutes.
- Wipe the area down.
- Rinse and repeat as needed.
If you opt for a commercial degreaser, look for one designed for quartz countertops. You'll want to avoid any abrasive or harsh cleaners with bleach.
Removing Tough Stains From Quartz Counters
Typically, when you are trying to clean up tough stains in your home, you might reach for the baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, bleach, or white vinegar. However, these cleaners are too abrasive when it comes to your quartz countertop. Instead, there are a few different options you can try.
Sticky Substances
When it comes to sticky stubborn stains, you can reach for Goo Gone. According to their blog, Goo Gone is safe for quartz countertops that have been sealed in the last year.
- Apply Goo Gone to the stain.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Wipe away with soapy water on a soft cloth.
Stubborn Stains
Stains on your quartz countertops might make your heart drop. However, grab the rubbing alcohol.
- Wet a soft cloth with rubbing alcohol.
- Rub the stain.
- Re-wet and move to a fresh area of the cloth until the stain is gone.
How to Polish Quartz Countertops
Typically, clean quartz countertops have a beautiful shine. However, if you really want to make them sparkle, you can buff them with a microfiber cloth. You might also choose a commercial quartz countertop polish like Granite Gold Polish or Simple Green Stone Polish. When it comes to using these commercial polishers, make sure you follow the instructions explicitly.
Preventing Quartz Counter Damage
You've looked at all the dos for your quartz countertops. Now, it is time to look at the don'ts. Many quartz manufacturers recommend a few cautions when it comes to your quartz countertops.
- Don't let spills sit. Clean them up immediately.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch and weaken the seal.
- Don't use scouring pads.
- Avoid using cleaners with a high pH.
- Stay away from cleaners like lemon, ammonia, and bleach.
- Never cut directly on your countertop. Use a cutting board.
- Don't place hot pans directly on your countertops. It can cause cracking.
Properly Caring for Your Quartz Countertops
Beautiful quartz countertops need tender loving care to maintain their shine. With this comprehensive quartz countertop cleaning guide, you'll be ready to meet any situation that comes your way.
