When we invest in luxury kitchen finishes, we want them to last. Quartz countertops aren't quite as fussy as marble or slate, but they will benefit from informed cleaning. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning quartz surfaces to avoid damage. Once you've done that, we have a few tips to help keep your countertops gleaming.
DIY General Cleaning Solution
At the end of the day or after you've been cooking (aka making a mess), you can use this homemade solution to cut through grease and disinfect:
- 250ml warm water
- drop of liquid dish soap
- 60 ml isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol)
Add these ingredients to a spray bottle and gently mix by tilting the spray bottle from side to side. Don't shake the bottle or the dish soap will lather and make it difficult to spray.
To use your DIY quartz counter cleaner:
- Remove any debris or build-up on the counter tops with a soft cloth
- Spray countertops with the solution
- Allow it to sit for 60 seconds
- With a clean soft cloth, scrub any stuck-on or sticky bits, using a circular motion
- Rinse the cloth well and wipe off the soap mixture
- Buff dry with a clean dry cloth to avoid water marks
Stain Removal
Abrasive cleaners are not recommended for quartz countertops, however you can use a paste made of baking soda and water to gently remove stains. Make sure you're not scouring too much in one area and wipe the paste away several times to avoid over working the surface.
Vinegar is not recommended for regular cleaning as the acidity can be hard on quartz. However, if you cut it with water (50/50), you can use it on stains. Just be sure not to leave it on for extended periods and wipe and rinse after you've removed the stain.
You can use straight isopropyl alcohol to remove glue, ink, permanent markers or sticky residues. Pour a small amount onto a clean cloth and apply in a circular motion. Wipe down the counter immediately with a clean cloth and warm water.
When to Call the Pros
So if you've scrubbed and wiped and wiped again and that turmeric or red wine stain will not budge—it's time to call in the professionals. This is when you contact the fine folks who sold you your countertops. They'll know how to direct you. Resist taking matters into your own scrub-happy hands. Quartz is tougher than marble, but it has its limits. Aggressive scouring or using the wrong products can lead to scratches or a cloudy surface.
Regular cleaning with water or the gentle DIY solution above will help keep your quartz countertops gleaming for years to come!