Essential Tips for Quartz Countertop Maintenance

Quartz is a very popular countertop choice, but it's important to care for yours properly if you want to keep it in good condition. Clean it regularly and wipe up spills immediately. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and excessive heat exposure to maximize its lifespan.

According to NerdWallet, a typical minor kitchen remodel costs around $27,000, while a major remodel can cost as much as $150,000. When making such a large investment, you want to ensure you get good results.

Quartz countertops are renowned for their beauty and durability; however, they require specific maintenance to retain their qualities over time. Following the right care routine is key.

In this guide, we'll discuss some essential quartz countertop maintenance tips to help you get the most out of your investment. Keep reading for more.

How Often Do You Need to Seal Quartz Countertops?

Unlike natural stone such as granite or marble, quartz is engineered with resin binders that make it non-porous. As a result, it generally does not require resealing, which can save you a lot of time and effort.

However, if a countertop's protective layer is damaged, a special quartz sealant may restore its stain resistance. In most cases, simply follow regular practices for cleaning quartz countertops.

Sealing shouldn't regularly factor into your quartz countertop care routine.

What Is the Best Everyday Cleaner for Quartz Countertops?

For daily upkeep, opt for a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner specially designed for quartz surfaces. A diluted mixture, such as a few drops of mild dish soap in warm water, works beautifully for cleaning quartz countertops.

This concoction helps create a sanitary surface without diluting the countertop's finish. Spray lightly, wipe with a soft microfiber cloth, and buff dry.

Avoid harsh, acidic, or abrasive products that can strip shine or damage the polish on your quartz countertop. Also, there are commercial sprays tailored for long-lasting quartz countertops that offer an added shine boost while keeping away stains.

Can You Put Hot Pans on Quartz Countertops?

Quartz is heat-resistant, but it isn't heatproof. High temperatures can cause thermal shock, leading to discoloration or surface cracking.

It's best to place hot pots and pans on a trivet or hot pad rather than directly on the countertop. Protecting your quartz promotes a longer lifespan and avoids damage that can compromise both aesthetics and structure.

Other Essential Quartz Countertop Maintenance Tips

How you care for your quartz countertop can have a significant impact on how well it lasts. These tips will help you get the most out of it.

Wipe Up Spills Promptly

You should wipe up any spills straight away, especially acidic substances like:

• Vinegar

• Wine

• Citrus juices

• Certain cleaners

These can dull or stain your quartz countertop if left sitting.

Use Cutting Boards

Quartz is robust, but it's not indestructible. Using cutting boards protects the surface from scratches and keeps your polished quartz countertop looking pristine.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Avoid bleach, oven cleaners, and products containing trichloroethylene. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly and dry wipe right away to maintain shine and safeguard your countertop.

Periodic Deeper Cleaning

Deep clean monthly (or as needed) with a non-abrasive cleaner made for quartz. Spray it on, let it sit briefly, then soft-scrub and rinse. Finish with a microfiber cloth to enhance polish and shine.

Polish Sparingly

Though quartz doesn't require frequent polishing, applying quartz countertop polish two or three times a year can elevate shine and bolster the surface. Follow the product's instructions and buff to a gleaming finish.

Your Quartz Countertop

Proper quartz countertop maintenance doesn't have to be complicated. Rely on mild everyday cleaners, protect against heat, wipe spills quickly, and occasionally polish your countertop to keep it looking fresh. Routine attention and thoughtful use will help your kitchen keep up its appeal for years to come.

Stonewood Granite and Quartz is a leading provider of kitchen countertops, led by a team with over 70 years of combined experience. We pride ourselves on customer service and stock an extensive range of quartz and natural stone countertops.

We offer free estimates, attentive service, outstanding workmanship, and competitive pricing. Contact us today to find out more about what we can do for you.

FAQ

Q: Do quartz countertops stain easily?

A: No. Quartz is non-porous and highly resistant to staining from common household spills, like coffee, wine, or oils. Still, wiping up spills promptly helps avoid long-term residue or accidental discoloration, particularly with staining substances like dyes or harsh chemicals.

Q: Can I use vinegar or glass cleaner on quartz?

A: It's best to steer clear of acidic or bleach-based cleaners. Although a mild glass cleaner is unlikely to harm the surface, frequent use can dull the finish. Stick to a pH-neutral cleaner and a microfiber cloth for restored smoothness.

Q: Will scratching ruin quartz?

A: Quartz is scratch-resistant but not impervious. Daily cutting might scratch the surface over time, so always use cutting boards. For minor surface scratches, a stone polishing powder (specified for quartz) can help restore the appearance.

Q: How often should I polish my quartz countertop?

A: Polishing isn't mandatory, but applying a safe quartz countertop polish two to three times a year can add extra shine and revitalize the appearance of the top layer. If your countertop still looks glossy between uses, you might not need to polish so often.

Q: Can I use bleach to disinfect quarts?

A: If you must disinfect quartz, use a safe diluted bleach solution (roughly one part bleach to 10 parts water) applied briefly. Rinse thoroughly with clean water afterward and dry with a soft cloth to preserve the polish. Even better than this, opt for a disinfectant known to be quartz-safe to avoid weakening the resin.

Q: How can I make my quartz countertop last longer?

A: With proper quartz countertop maintenance, your surfaces can look new for decades. The best practices include daily cleaning, avoiding direct heat from pans, using cutting boards, and wiping spills immediately. Occasional polishing can refresh shine while protecting the surface from harsh chemicals and helps to prevent lasting damage.