Are you looking for ways to keep your stone countertops looking pristine? In this comprehensive guide, our team at Granite Selection will walk you through the steps to effectively clean and care for your quartz countertops. From everyday maintenance tips to removing tough stains, you’ll discover the secrets to maintaining the beauty and longevity of natural stone surfaces in your home. Say goodbye to worries and hello to a stunning kitchen that you’ll love for years to come!
Before you begin cleaning your quartz countertops, you’ll want to gather all the necessary supplies. Here are the items our team at Granite Selection recommends:
Gathering these supplies before you start cleaning means you’ll have everything you need to properly care for your quartz countertops and maintain their beauty and longevity.
After gathering the necessary supplies, start by wiping down the quartz countertop surface with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge. This step helps remove any loose dirt, dust, or food particles that may be left behind. Gently wipe in a circular motion, ensuring that you cover the entire surface area. You can prevent the buildup of grime and maintain an inviting space by regularly wiping down your countertops.
Quartz is known for its stain-resistant properties, but it’s still important to clean up spills promptly. Accidents happen, and liquids like coffee, juice, or oil can leave behind stubborn stains if they’re not removed quickly.
Use a cloth or sponge to blot the spill and remove it from the surface. Avoid wiping the spill, as this can spread it and make it harder to clean. As long as you address spills promptly, you can prevent staining and keep your quartz countertops in prime condition.
When it’s time for a deeper clean, choose a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner specifically formulated for quartz. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers, or cleaners that contain bleach or acidic ingredients as these can cause damage and remove color or shine. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply the cleaner to the surface, using a soft cloth or sponge. Gently scrub in a circular motion to remove any dirt or grime that has accumulated.
After cleaning quartz countertops with a gentle cleaner, rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water. This helps remove any residue from the cleaning product and ensures that no cleaner is left behind. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the countertop, making sure to remove all traces of the cleaner. Proper rinsing helps maintain the integrity of the quartz surface and prevents any potential buildup or film.
To complete the cleaning process, dry the quartz countertop thoroughly using a microfiber cloth or a clean, soft towel. Wipe the surface in a gentle motion to remove any remaining moisture. This step is crucial because water droplets left to air dry can leave water spots or streaks on the quartz surface. Thoroughly drying the countertop ensures a spotless and polished appearance. Plus, it helps prevent the growth of mold or mildew, keeping your countertops hygienic and clean.
Looking for a quartz countertop to update your kitchen? Check our Bianco Pepper project to get inspiration for your remodel.
Proper cleaning and care are essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of your countertops. Knowing how to effectively remove different types of stains can save homeowners from the hassle and expense of professional cleaning services. Here are some of our recommended cleaning solutions and methods to keep your countertops looking pristine.
| Stain Type | Cleaning Solution | Cleaning Method |
|---|---|---|
| Food stains | Mild dish soap and water solution | Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe the surface in a circular motion. Rinse with clean water and dry. |
| Oil or grease stains | Gentle household cleaner or degreaser | Apply the cleaner to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Gently scrub the area with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse with clean water and dry. |
| Coffee or tea stains | Baking soda paste (mix baking soda with water) | Apply the paste to the stain and gently scrub using a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse with clean water and dry. |
| Ink stains | Isopropyl alcohol or hydrogen peroxide | Dampen a cloth or sponge with the alcohol or hydrogen peroxide and gently blot the stain. Rinse with clean water and dry. |
| Hard water stains | White vinegar or lemon juice | Soak a cloth or sponge in vinegar or lemon juice and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes, then gently scrub. Rinse with clean water and dry. |
| Red wine stains | Hydrogen peroxide | Dampen a cloth or sponge with hydrogen peroxide and gently blot the stain. Rinse with clean water and dry. |
These cleaning solutions and methods allow homeowners to ensure that their quartz countertops remain stain-free and in excellent condition for years to come. Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and test any cleaning solution on a small area before using it on the entire countertop. With regular cleaning and care, you can enjoy the durability and beauty of your quartz countertops while saving money on costly repairs or replacements.
To keep your countertops in pristine condition, it’s crucial to avoid using harsh cleaners and abrasive tools. Harsh cleaners, such as those containing bleach or acidic ingredients, can cause discoloration and damage to quartz surfaces.
Instead, opt for mild dish soap mixed with warm water for routine cleaning. Avoid using abrasive tools like steel wool or scouring pads that can scratch the quartz surface. Stick to soft cloths or non-abrasive sponges to gently clean and maintain the beauty of your countertops.
While quartz counters are highly durable and resistant to scratches, it’s still recommended to use cutting boards when working with knives or other sharp objects. Even though quartz is scratch-resistant, we always tell our customers that it’s best to avoid unnecessary wear and tear by using cutting boards as an additional protective measure. This is a simple habit that helps prevent any accidental scratches or cuts on the surface. As a result, you can keep your quartz countertops looking pristine and scratch-free for years to come.
Quartz countertops are engineered to be heat-resistant, but it’s still important to protect them from excessive heat exposure. Avoid placing hot pans, pots, or baking trays directly on the quartz surface, as extreme temperatures can cause thermal shock and potentially damage the material.
Always use trivets or heat-resistant pads when placing hot items on the countertop. Additionally, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can lead to discoloration and fading of the quartz.
Consider using curtains, blinds, or UV-protective films on nearby windows to minimize the impact of sunlight on your countertops.
As we mentioned previously, promptly wiping up spills is a crucial step in maintaining quartz countertops clean. Quartz is non-porous, which means it resists stains and doesn’t harbor bacteria. However, certain substances like coffee, red wine, or oils can still leave marks if they have time to set in.
To prevent staining or discoloration, quickly blot any spills using a cloth or paper towel. If needed, use a mild dish soap diluted in warm water to clean the area thoroughly.
Staying on top of spills can help keep your quartz countertops looking spotless and prevent any potential long-term damage.
While regular cleaning and maintenance can go a long way in preserving the quality of your quartz countertops, it’s beneficial to schedule professional maintenance periodically.
Professional quartz countertop maintenance involves deep cleaning, resealing (if necessary), and addressing specific concerns or issues. Experienced technicians like ours at Granite Selection have the expertise and specialized tools to ensure your countertops receive proper care and attention.
Professional maintenance is an investment that helps you extend the lifespan of your quartz countertops and address any potential problems before they escalate.
Properly cleaning and caring for your quartz countertops is essential to maintain their beauty and durability. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your countertops remain pristine and free from stains or damage. Remember to use gentle cleaning agents, avoid abrasive materials, and promptly clean up spills to protect your investment.
If you’re considering installing or upgrading to quartz countertops, don’t hesitate to contact Granite Selection at (888) 906 3317 . Our team of experts can provide you with personalized guidance, answer any questions you may have, and inform you about our current quartz countertop specials. Transform your kitchen with the elegance and functionality of quartz countertops today.
No, it isn’t recommended to use abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes on quartz countertops. These can potentially scratch the surface and dull its shine. Instead, use mild, non-abrasive cleaners and a cloth or sponge when you’re cleaning.
If you accidentally spill a staining substance, it’s important to clean it up as soon as possible. Wipe the spill with a gentle cleaner or a mixture of mild dish soap and water. Avoid leaving the substance on the surface for an extended period, as it can potentially stain the quartz.
While quartz is known for its heat resistance, we still advise our customers to use trivets or hot pads when placing hot pots and pans on quartz countertops. Sudden extreme temperature changes can potentially cause thermal shock and damage the surface. Using protective pads or trivets helps prevent any potential damage and keeps the countertops in optimal condition.
Do you have questions about granite or quartz countertops in Chicago?
Request a free consultation or visit our office.
Is it okay to use Windex on my quartz countertops? It’s the cleaner that I use around my kitchen.
Windex has a high PH level and using this to clean your quartz countertop can be potentially damaging.