Quartz countertops find favor with homeowners due to their durability, low maintenance needs, and range of patterns and colors. They’re engineered stone surfaces made from recycled, ground natural quartz combined with resins and pigments—creating a nonporous material that resists stains, scratches, and bacteria. Offering the beauty of natural stone with added resilience, they make an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms, but you need to clean and maintain them to keep them looking their best.
Our guide explores best practices for cleaning quartz countertops to ensure they stand the test of time in your home.
Daily Cleaning
Dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap. Gently wipe the entire countertop surface, paying extra attention to areas with visible dirt or spills. Then rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe the countertop to remove any soap residue. Dry the surface thoroughly to prevent water spots.
For quick touch-ups throughout the day, keep a spray bottle filled with water and a small amount of dish soap nearby for easy spot cleaning as needed.
Scrape away stubborn messes such as wax spills and gum with a plastic putty knife, rubber spatula, or other soft tool. Avoid using anything that could scratch the surface. If smudges or streaks remain, mist the countertop with window cleaner and wipe with a microfiber cloth or soft rag.
Never use harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia-based cleaners, or acidic cleaners such as vinegar or lemon juice. These can permanently damage or discolor quartz countertops. In addition, never use scouring pads, steel wool, or abrasive scrubbers, which can scratch the surface of the quartz, dulling its shine and leaving areas where dirt and bacteria can accumulate.
Handling Spills and Stains
While quartz resists staining, address spills promptly to head off potential damage or discoloration. For everyday spills such as coffee, wine, or food, blot the spill immediately with an absorbent cloth. Then, clean the area with warm water and mild dish soap. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
Stubborn Stains
For more challenging stains:
- Make a paste of baking soda diluted with a small amount of water.Â
- Gently apply the paste to the stain.
- Allow the paste to sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
- Rinse the area thoroughly and dry completely.
For particularly stubborn stains, you may need a specialized quartz cleaner.
Disinfecting Quartz Countertops
While quartz is naturally resistant to bacteria, you still need to disinfect it regularly, especially in kitchen areas where you prepare food.
Safe Disinfecting Methods
- Use a quartz-safe disinfecting spray.
- Spray the solution on the countertop and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Wipe the counter clean with a soft, damp cloth.
- Rinse the counter thoroughly with clean water and dry completely.
Alternatively, use bleach-free disinfecting wipes.
More Tips for Maintaining Quartz Countertops
Avoid High Heat
Quartz is heat resistant but not heatproof. Always place hot pads or trivets under hot cookware to prevent thermal shock, which can cause cracking or discoloration.
Use Cutting Boards
Avoid cutting directly on the countertop, as knives can leave tiny scratches over time. Using cutting boards will help preserve the smooth surface, keeping it free of marks and scratches.
FAQs About Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Can I use bleach to clean my quartz countertop?
Never use bleach to clean your quartz countertop. Using bleach risks permanent discoloration or damage. The nonporous material resists stains and bacteria without strong cleansers.Â
How can I remove dried or stuck-on messes from my quartz countertop?
To remove dried or stuck-on messes, use a plastic scraper or non-abrasive scrub pad to gently lift off the mess after softening it with warm water. An equal parts distilled vinegar and water solution helps dissolve stuck-on grime and residue.
What’s the best way to clean quartz countertops daily?
The best way to clean quartz countertops every day is to use a soft rag or sponge with warm water and mild dish soap to wipe the counters. This cleaning method removes grease, crumbs, dust, and other debris to keep counters looking spotless in between deeper cleanings. Mist with a window cleaner and wipe dry to eliminate streaks.
