Quartz Countertops are a mix of quartz stone and a man-made polymer. Highly popular, these countertops do not require any polishing and are naturally glossy. It requires little maintenance to maintain its luster; however, it’s more difficult to damage these than other countertops, like Corian and laminate. You should avoid hard pressure, quick temperature changes, and non-abrasive cleaners. Read on to learn how to maintain a quartz countertop.
Tips for cleaning
• Clean the counter routinely with mild detergent and a soft rag. Make sure that the detergent does not have bleach and is non-abrasive.
• Wipe spilled liquids immediately. Although quartz surfaces resist juice, coffee, and tea stains for a short amount of time, the resistance may vary depending on the brand you own.
• Use a surface or glass cleaner with a non-abrasive sponge to clean up stains that are dried or heavy. Sponges that are made for cleaning non-stick pans are the best option. For deep cleaning, make sure you spray a generous quantity of surface cleaner liquid on the countertop and leave it for ten minutes before you proceed to wipe it away with the sponge.
• Use a putty knife to scrape away grease, gum or paint. Don’t use a sharp edged knife as they are not scratch proof.
• Use a de-greaser to remove grease. Make sure you rinse the surface immediately after cleaning it.
• If there are any ink or permanent marker stains, use an oil-based cleaner to wipe it away. Always rinse it with warm water once the stain is removed.
Prevent damage to the countertop
• Use a hot pad or trivet below crock pots, hot pans and electric skillets. Although quartz has a temperature resistance for up to 300oF, it can undergo damage from quick temperature changes, also known as a “thermal shock”.
• Don’t use knives or other sharp-edged material directly on the countertop. Though quartz countertops are scratch resistant, they aren’t scratch proof. They can sustain damage if hit forcefully with a sharp object. Place a cutting board on top of the counter to prevent damage.
• Do not use highly alkaline or acidic cleaners like nail polish remover, oven cleaner, turpentine, drain cleaners, bleach, methylene chloride, dishwasher rinsing agents or trichloroethane. They can damage its antimicrobial barrier. If you accidentally spill any of these on the countertop, use a mild detergent to clean it and rinse it afterwards.
• Avoid force or pressure on your countertop. It can chip the stone and damage your counter.