What Not to Use On Quartz Countertops: Expert Guide

08/21/2022

6 min read

Quartz has grown in popularity over the past couple of years, and this countertop trend shows no signs of slowing down. Known for its durable and hard-wearing nature, quartz comes in a variety of colors, styles, and patterns. It also requires no annual upkeep, making it a practical option for many homeowners.

However, correct cleaning practices must be observed in order to keep quartz in flawless condition. So, what must an individual avoid to preserve the quality of their quartz countertops?

When shopping for Caesarstone products like 5171 Arabetto or 5121 Layalite, it is important to understand what is needed when cleaning them and what not to use on quartz countertops.

Quartz Countertop Advantages

What is engineered quartz composed of? Well, engineered quartz is a blend of up to 90% quartz minerals with resins, polymers, and other color pigments. Once combined, the slurry is poured into a slab-forming mold. In order to reinforce the slabs, most quartz countertops are treated. Then, they are polished and sold.

Thanks to this lengthy process, quartz is extraordinarily durable. Its high-density, non-porous, and easy-to-clean surface resists heat, stains, and cracks.

Cleaning Quartz Countertops

If the quartz countertop gets used on a regular basis, it is recommended that the surface is cleaned daily or every other day. This precaution will maintain kitchen hygiene as well as prevent stains or discoloration.

Warm water, a soft dish cloth, and a mild cleaning solution is the most practical solution to cleaning quartz. To begin, fill a bowl halfway with warm water. Add in some liquid dish detergent, and whisk until it is completely dissolved in the water. Clean the countertop in a circular motion with a soft dish towel. Once the surface is clean, wipe it down with a clean towel and fresh water, then dry it with a soft paper towel or a dry hand towel.

A vinegar and water combination can be used as a daily cleaning solution. Combine equal parts water and regular vinegar in a medium mixing dish and stir thoroughly. Using a soft towel, clean the entire area in a circular motion. Using a clean towel and freshwater, wipe down the countertop and finish by drying with a paper towel or a dry towel.

Glass cleaner can also be used in some cases, however not all manufacturers advocate it. To ensure that glass cleaner is a safe cleaning method, check with the quartz manufacturer. Most manufacturers will tell homeowners to stay away from glass cleaners containing ammonia that might dull the products’ surface over time.

Before utilizing a cleaning solution, remove any dried-on residue, such as food or glue, as soon as possible.

Abrasive Stains

Other cleaning strategies might be employed if a spill or stain does not come out after utilizing moderate cleaning solutions. Although they are generally safe to use on quartz countertops, always read the owner’s instructions before cleaning quartz surfaces to avoid irreversible damage.

Rubbing alcohol can be used as a solvent to remove glue, ink, permanent markers, and blood stains. Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol onto a clean rag and apply it in a circular motion to the stain. Wipe down the counter with a clean cloth and warm water, then dry fully with a paper towel or a clean towel.

A water and vinegar solution can be used to remove hard water deposits and soap stains.

Fighting these stains in the kitchen or bathroom is easy with a 1:1 water and vinegar solution. Use the detailed vinegar and water cleaning solution described above.

Use caution when employing any of the procedures indicated above. Never leave any of the solutions unattended on the quartz countertop surface and rinse the surface after each use. When using any cleaning solution, always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

What Should You Not Use On Quartz Countertops in the Home?

The majority of quartz producers will include a list of cleaning goods and other things to avoid while cleaning their countertops.

However, most people believe that abrasive cleaners should be avoided. Harsh, abrasive cleaners, pads, and sponges should be avoided since they can permanently harm countertops.

Scrubbing too hard can leave a dull surface or cause superficial scratches. Oven cleansers, grill cleaners, paint removers, dishwashing detergent, and other high pH cleaners should not be used on quartz surfaces.

Obstinate Marks

If coffee or tea spills are allowed to stay on quartz for an extended period of time, they can discolor the surface. If the daily cleaner does not remove this type of stain, call a professional cleaning service to help with the issue. Scrubbing too aggressively on the surface of quartz might permanently harm the material.

Resistance to Heat

Quartz can withstand heat, but only to a certain point.

Hot pots and pans from the oven or stove should not be placed directly on a quartz countertop. Intense heat can cause a ring to form around the pot, changing the color of the quartz countertop permanently. The tremendous heat can scorch the resin contained in quartz, leaving a ring imprint.

A potholder or coaster should always be used between hot pots or pans and the counter surface.

Preventative Actions

Caesarstone’s quartz countertops are resistant to cracks, chips, and scratches. However, it is not completely indestructible. Simple preventative steps can help protect a homeowner’s investment, and extend the quartz countertop’s lifetime value.

To keep hot cookware off the counters, trivets should be utilized. Due to the small amounts of resin used in the manufacturing process, quartz cannot sustain the same heat. Because of this, placing overly hot pots and pans straight on the surface of quartz countertops often leads to noticeable discoloration.

Further extreme temperature changes may cause the countertop to break. Although this is uncommon to occur in everyday use, it is always a good idea to be cautious.

Make it a habit to clean up spills as soon as they occur. If an individual has a kitchen accident, it’s always best to clean it up right away instead of dealing with a dried-up stain.

When cooking, always use a cutting board. Quartz is scratch-resistant, but sharp items can leave minor scratches over time.