Step-by-Step Guide: How To Clean Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are a real beauty. However, beyond their aesthetics they are also a very impressive countertop surface that has no problem withstanding daily wear and tear. But in order for your countertop to stay looking beautiful and be able to take those daily tasks with ease, you need to take proper care of them. And while quarts top may look similar to marble or granite, they are actually quite different. Quartz countertops are made from a mix of resin and crushed stone. Since they are not made from naturally occurring stone, they have a more uniform pattern and color. Quartz tops are also nonporous and resistant. But while they are tough as nails, they are not immune to damage, dirt, and stains. That’s why today we will show you how to clean quartz countertops properly, so you can maintain their appearance and longevity.
We will show you how to clean quartz countertops properly
In this article
How To Clean Quartz Countertops
As we mentioned, quartz countertops are created from resin and crushed stones. This type of manufacturing makes them even more durable than materials such as granite. But while they are tough, they are not indestructible. If you want your countertops to stay looking beautiful and continue being resistant to daily wear and tear, some regular maintenance and cleaning is needed. In this guide, we will show you all the steps you need to take to clean your countertop safely and effectively without damaging or scratching the surface. So, let’s see how to clean a quartz countertop like a pro.
While quartz countertops are tough, they are not indestructible
#Clear off everything
The first step to cleaning your countertops is very simple. You need to remove everything off the counter. This includes papers, dishware, plates, glassware, appliances and so on. You can get away with not moving the appliances every time, however, you should be wiping under them at least once a week. A lot of dirt, dust, and crumbs like to hide underneath them. Also remove any crumbs and food leftovers with a dry, soft cloth.
You need to remove everything off the counter
#Make your own solution
Now that the counter is empty, it’s time to prepare your cleaning solution. Just mix together a tablespoon of mild dish soap and around a cup of lukewarm water together. You can do this in the sink or in a bowl. You can either use this homemade solution or a specialized quartz cleaner. It is very important you stay away from any harsh alkaline or acidic cleaner, as they will damage your countertop.
Mix together a tablespoon of mild dish soap and around a cup of lukewarm water together
#Wipe the counters
Take a sponge or a soft cloth and add it to your cleaning solution. Soak up the solution and then ring it out tightly before using it on the counter. With the damp cloth/sponge wipe the counters well. It’s very important that your cloth/sponge is not leaving large amounts of water after each wipe. If it is, make sure to wring it out even more. If there are any stubborn stuck-on bits on the counter, let the soapy water sit on it for no more than five minutes. This will help loosen them up.
Soak up the solution and then ring it out tightly before using it on the counter
#Scrape away gunk
After you have waited for the bits to loosen up, it’s time to scrape them away. However, abrasive materials like steel wool will only cause harm, so stay clear from them. Instead, take a putty knife and very gently scrape away any stubborn grime pieces. Make sure you are not pushing into the countertop, as this will cause scratches.
Take a putty knife and very gently scrape away any stubborn grime pieces
#Final wipe
Now that all the grime is gone, give your counters a final wipe down. Take a new sponge/cloth and soak it in fresh water. Then wring it out well and wipe the counters making sure no excess water is trailing after the sponge/cloth. If your countertop is still dirty, you can repeat the whole process.
Now that all the grime is gone, give your counters a final wipe down
#Drying
Once you are satisfied with the cleaning and no more dirt and gunk is left on the counter, all that is left to do is dry it. Take a dry cloth or some kitchen paper and make sure there is no water left anywhere along the counter. And you are done! Simple, and easy.
Bonus: You can add a glass cleaner or a quartz surface cleaner to give your countertops a nice polished look.
Take a dry cloth or some kitchen paper and make sure there is no water left on the counter
#Dealing with stains
Stains can be a hassle to deal with, but they are not impossible to get out. When you are dealing with a quartz countertop, there are some easy ways to get stains out with common household materials.
Stains can be a hassle to deal with
- Isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Just wet a rag with a solution of one part rubbing alcohol and three parts dish soap. Next, rub the stain. Then wipe the counter down with a damp, clean cloth.
- Glass cleaners. This stain cleaner has mixed reviews. Some companies say it’s more than fine to use it on their quarts countertops, while others disagree. So, to avoid damage, first call and check with the company that made your countertop. If it is okay, just saturate the stain, let it sit for around 5 to 10 minutes and then wipe it away with a damp, clean cloth.
There are some easy ways to get stains out with common household materials
How To Maintain Quartz Countertops
While quartz countertops are some tough cookies, just like anything in your home, they do require some effort and maintenance to stay looking good and to keep doing their job. You can easily keep your quartz countertops looking as good as the day you bought them with a few simple efforts.
Keep your quartz countertops looking as good as the day you bought them
- Clean spills. Yes, quartz is nonporous, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to leave spills unattended. If left uncleaned, certain spills can stain your countertop. So, make sure you always clean up a spill as soon as possible after its occurrence.
- No hot pans directly on the countertop. While you may be in a hurry to drop the pan or pot that is burning you through the mitts, the counter is not the place to leave it. Hot pots and pans can discolor the quartz. Always place such items on top of cutting boards, dishes, or a designated space.
- Use cutting boards. Well, this one is common sense, but still. Even as durable as it is, quartz tops can easily get scratched if you use them as a cutting board.
- Avoid harsh cleaners. Acidic, abrasive, or any type of harsh cleaner can scratch or discolor your beautiful quartz countertop. This means you need to avoid products like vinegar, bleach, acetone, scrubs, steel wool, oil-based soaps, and so on.
While quartz countertops are some tough cookies, they do require some effort and maintenance
How Often Should You Clean a Quartz Countertop?
These types of countertops are in general low maintenance and don’t need to be cleaned too often if they are getting daily maintenance. In general, it’s recommended to do a more thorough cleaning at least once a week. Other than that a daily wipe down will suffice.
These types of countertops are in general low maintenance
This was how to clean quartz countertops properly. We hope you found this article useful. Now you know how to easily keep your beautiful countertops in tip-top shape and they will stay this good-looking for many years to come.
This was how to clean quartz countertops properly
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