How to Clean Quartz Countertops: The Ultimate Guide

Quartz countertops have surged in popularity for homeowners seeking a blend of elegance and practicality in their kitchens and bathrooms. Renowned for their durability and low-maintenance nature, quartz surfaces resist scratches and stains, making them a favorite alternative to natural stone. A significant advantage of quartz is its non-porous composition, eliminating the need for regular sealing required by granite or marble. This inherent resistance simplifies upkeep, yet consistent cleaning remains crucial to preserve their pristine appearance and hygiene. Fortunately, maintaining the beauty of your quartz countertops is straightforward, often requiring little more than basic household supplies.

Why Cleaning Quartz Countertops Is Important

While quartz is celebrated for its aesthetic appeal, this beauty is contingent on proper care. Regular cleaning is not merely about looks; it’s fundamental for hygiene, especially in food preparation areas like kitchens. “It’s also important to keep them clean if they’re in your kitchen or bathroom for sanitary reasons and to prevent contamination,” emphasizes Warren Weiss from Scrub! Residential Cleaning. Beyond sanitation, neglecting cleaning can lead to stubborn stains and buildup that are far more challenging to remove over time. Consistent, simple cleaning prevents minor spills from becoming major headaches, ensuring your countertops remain a highlight of your space for years to come.

Dos and Don’ts of Cleaning Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are indeed robust, but understanding the right and wrong cleaning practices is key to their longevity. While they can withstand daily use, certain substances and methods can compromise their finish.

Dos

Do wipe up spills immediately: Quartz is stain-resistant, not stain-proof. Promptly addressing spills, especially from staining agents like wine, coffee, or juice, prevents any potential discoloration.
Do clean daily: For countertops in high-use areas such as kitchens, a daily cleaning routine is ideal. “If you prepare a meal on your countertop, clean it up when you’re done. If you spill something on there, clean it up,” advises Weiss.
Do use mild soap and water: The most effective and safest daily cleaner for quartz is a simple solution of warm water and a mild dish soap. This gentle mixture effectively removes everyday grime and spills without damaging the surface.
Do use a microfiber cloth: Opt for soft microfiber cloths for cleaning. These non-abrasive cloths are excellent for lifting dirt and debris without scratching the quartz surface.
Do dry after cleaning: After wiping down your countertops, always dry them with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. “Another big do for me is going over the countertop with a dry microfiber cloth after cleaning to make the countertop shine,” Weiss adds. Drying prevents water spots and streaks, leaving your countertops sparkling.
Do use gentle, non-abrasive cleaners: If soap and water aren’t sufficient for tougher messes, use a non-abrasive, pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for stone surfaces. All-purpose cleaners are generally safe, but always check the label to ensure they are non-abrasive and don’t contain harsh chemicals.

Don’ts

Don’t use abrasive cleaners or scrub pads: Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, steel wool, or harsh scrubbing sponges. These can dull the polished surface of quartz and lead to scratches. Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid, a Neighborly Company, cautions against abrasive materials that can harm the finish.
Don’t use harsh chemicals: Steer clear of harsh chemicals like bleach, oven cleaner, drain cleaner, turpentine, or any highly acidic or alkaline cleaners. These substances can damage the resins that bind quartz, leading to discoloration or breakdown of the surface. “Also, bleach and other harsh chemicals that can dull the countertops should be avoided,” Mock emphasizes.
Don’t apply excessive heat directly: While quartz is heat-resistant to a degree, it’s not heat-proof. Avoid placing extremely hot pots or pans directly from the stove or oven onto the quartz surface. Consistent exposure to high heat can potentially damage the resin. Always use trivets or hot pads.
Don’t use wax or polish: Quartz countertops are non-porous and do not require sealing or polishing. Using waxes or polishes can create a buildup over time, dulling the natural shine of the quartz.

How Often to Clean Quartz Countertops

The frequency of cleaning your quartz countertops depends largely on their location and usage. For kitchen countertops, daily cleaning is recommended as they are subjected to frequent spills and food preparation. Cleaning after each meal preparation or spill is ideal to maintain hygiene and prevent stain buildup. In bathrooms or less frequently used areas, cleaning a few times a week or as needed may suffice. “Cleaning your quartz countertops every day is best practice, especially if they’re located in the kitchen or bathroom,” is generally good advice. However, for countertops in low-traffic areas, cleaning them after each use or spill is perfectly adequate.

Materials Needed

Before you begin cleaning your quartz countertops, gather these simple supplies:

Microfiber cloths: Essential for both cleaning and drying, microfiber cloths are gentle and effective.
Dish soap: A mild dish soap is the cornerstone of your quartz cleaning arsenal.
Warm water: Use warm water to create your cleaning solution and for rinsing.
Spray bottle (optional): A spray bottle is helpful for applying the soap and water solution evenly.
All-purpose cleaner (non-abrasive, pH-neutral – for tougher messes): Keep a non-abrasive, pH-neutral all-purpose cleaner on hand for occasional deeper cleaning needs.
Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution – for stain removal): Useful for tackling stains, hydrogen peroxide is a gentle bleaching agent.
Baking soda (for stubborn stains): Baking soda can be used to make a mild abrasive paste for persistent stains.

How to Clean Quartz Countertops: Step-by-Step

Maintaining your quartz countertops is a breeze with these simple steps for routine cleaning:

Remove Loose Debris: Begin by wiping away any loose crumbs, food particles, or dust from the countertop surface using a dry microfiber cloth. This prevents scratching during the wet cleaning phase.

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Prepare Soap and Water Solution: Fill a sink or bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Alternatively, mix the soapy water solution in a spray bottle for easier application.
Wipe Down the Countertops: Dampen a microfiber cloth with the soapy water solution. Wring out excess water so the cloth is damp, not soaking wet. Gently wipe down the quartz countertops, covering the entire surface, paying attention to areas with spills or food residue.

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Rinse with Clean Water: Dampen a fresh microfiber cloth with clean water. Wipe down the countertops again to remove any soap residue. Ensure all soapy water is removed to prevent a hazy film from forming.
Dry Thoroughly: Using a clean, dry microfiber cloth, dry the countertops completely. Wipe in circular motions to buff the surface and enhance the shine. Drying is crucial for preventing water spots and streaks, leaving your quartz sparkling.

How to Remove Stains From Quartz Countertops

Quartz is highly stain-resistant, but occasionally, stubborn stains may occur. The key to stain removal is to act quickly. “The best way to remove stains from quartz countertops is to act quickly when spills occur, which will prevent any discoloration,” advises Melissa Poepping, founder of The Chemical Free Home. For minor stains or discoloration, try these methods:

Hydrogen Peroxide Solution: For general stains, mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle. Spray the stained area, let it sit for a few minutes (up to 10 for tougher stains), and then gently scrub with a microfiber cloth. Rinse with a damp cloth and dry.

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Baking Soda Paste: For more stubborn stains, create a paste using baking soda and a little water. Apply the paste to the stain, gently rub in a circular motion with a damp cloth, and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help lift stains without scratching the quartz.
Rubbing Alcohol: For ink or permanent marker stains, try dabbing the stain with rubbing alcohol on a microfiber cloth. Gently blot the stain until it lifts, then rinse with a damp cloth and dry.

Important Note: Always test any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t affect the countertop’s finish, although quartz is generally very resilient.

Tips for Maintaining Quartz Countertops

Beyond regular cleaning, these maintenance tips will help keep your quartz countertops in top condition:

Use Cutting Boards: Always use cutting boards when preparing food to prevent scratches from knives and other utensils.
Use Trivets and Hot Pads: Protect your countertops from heat damage by using trivets or hot pads under hot pots, pans, and appliances.
Wipe Up Spills Immediately: Promptly addressing spills is the most effective way to prevent stains and maintain the pristine look of your quartz.
Regularly Dust and Wipe: Even if there are no visible spills, regularly dusting and wiping down your countertops with a dry microfiber cloth helps prevent dust and grime buildup. “Quartz, if left to air dry, can leave streaks but if you immediately wipe the surface dry after cleaning, the results are perfection,” Poepping notes.
Avoid Excessive Weight on Edges: While quartz is strong, avoid putting excessive weight on the edges of countertops, as this could potentially cause cracking or damage over time.

By following these simple guidelines on How To Clean Quartz Countertops, you can ensure these beautiful and durable surfaces remain a highlight of your home for years to come. Regular, gentle cleaning is all it takes to maintain their pristine condition and enjoy their lasting beauty.