Quartz Countertop Care Archives • Stone Valley Countertops

Investing in high-quality countertops is a big decision, so it’s essential to know how to keep them in top condition for years to come. Whether you have quartz, granite, quartzite, or another stone surface, proper care will extend their lifespan and keep them looking brand new.

💡 Looking for the best countertop material? Check out our guide on Types of Countertops: Discover the Best Materials for Your Home.

This guide will cover the best cleaning, sealing, and maintenance tips for long-lasting countertops.

General Countertop Maintenance Tips

No matter the material, these general rules apply to all countertops:

Wipe up spills immediately – Prevent stains by cleaning up spills as soon as they happen.
Use mild cleaners – Harsh chemicals can damage or dull the surface.
Use cutting boards and trivets – Avoid direct contact with knives and hot pots.
Seal natural stone regularly – If your countertop is porous, sealing is crucial.
Avoid abrasive scrubbers – Use a microfiber cloth or sponge to prevent scratches.

Each countertop material has unique maintenance requirements, so let’s break it down by type.

How to Maintain Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are non-porous and require minimal maintenance. However, improper cleaning can still damage the surface.

Daily Cleaning: Use a mild dish soap and warm water with a soft cloth.
Stain Removal: For tougher stains, use a mix of baking soda and water or rubbing alcohol.
What to Avoid:

Harsh chemicals like bleach or oven cleaners.
Placing hot pans directly on the surface (use trivets!).
Cutting directly on the countertop—use a cutting board.

💡 Tip: Since quartz doesn’t need sealing, regular cleaning is all that’s required!

How to Maintain Granite Countertops

Granite is a natural stone that’s extremely durable, but it needs proper sealing to prevent stains.

Daily Cleaning: Wipe with warm water and a pH-neutral stone cleaner.
Sealing: Apply a penetrating sealer every 1–2 years to maintain stain resistance.
What to Avoid:

Acidic cleaners (vinegar, lemon, or ammonia).
Leaving water or oil spills for too long.
Using rough scrubbers that can dull the surface.

💡 Tip: To check if your granite needs sealing, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface. If it absorbs within 5 minutes, it’s time to reseal!

How to Maintain Quartzite Countertops

Quartzite offers the beauty of marble with better durability, but it still requires proper sealing and care.

Daily Cleaning: Use a pH-balanced cleaner or mild dish soap with a soft cloth.
Sealing: Reseal every 6–12 months to prevent staining.
What to Avoid:

Acidic cleaners that can etch the surface.
Abrasive pads that could scratch the finish.
Direct heat—use trivets for hot pots.

💡 Tip: Quartzite is more stain-resistant than marble, but sealing helps keep it in top condition.

Countertop Protection Tips

Use Coasters & Mats: Prevent stains from coffee, wine, and juice by using coasters under glasses.
Cut on a Board, Not the Countertop: Even durable materials like granite and quartzite can scratch over time.
Wipe Spills Immediately: Natural stone absorbs liquids, leading to stains.
Avoid Heavy Impact: Dropping heavy objects can cause cracks or chips.

With these simple habits, your countertops will remain flawless for years!

Final Thoughts

Learning how to maintain your countertops ensures they stay beautiful and functional for a lifetime. Whether you have quartz, granite, or quartzite, regular cleaning, sealing (for natural stone), and protective measures will keep your surfaces in pristine condition.

💡 Still deciding on the best countertop for your home? Read our guide on Types of Countertops: Discover the Best Materials for Your Home.

Need expert advice? Fill out our quote request form for professional countertop maintenance tips!

Your Thoughts?

Have a countertop care question? Fill out our quote request form for expert cleaning and maintenance recommendations! 🚀

Cleaning Quartz Countertops and Keep Them Looking New

Quartz countertops add sophistication and functionality to kitchens and bathrooms alike, making them a popular choice for homeowners. Known for their durability, stain resistance, and beautiful look, quartz countertops are both functional and stylish. But even with quartz’s hard-wearing qualities, regular maintenance is essential to keep them looking as new as the day they were installed. Cleaning quartz countertops is a simple yet important task that doesn’t require harsh chemicals or abrasive tools—just a few mindful steps and the right techniques.

In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about cleaning and maintaining quartz countertops. Whether you’re considering a quartz countertop installation or need advice on care, Stone Valley Countertops can provide expert assistance. For those ready to start, explore our free estimate tool to bring your vision to life with top-quality materials and installation.

Why Proper Care Is Essential for Quartz Countertops

Quartz is one of the most durable and resilient countertop materials available, making it ideal for high-traffic spaces like kitchens. Unlike porous stones such as granite or marble, quartz is non-porous, meaning it resists staining, bacteria, and moisture better than other materials. However, improper cleaning methods can dull its shine over time, and certain spills—if left unattended—may still leave residue or discoloration.

If you’re new to quartz countertops or want to learn more about their benefits, durability, and maintenance needs, check out our comprehensive quartz countertop guide for in-depth information and design ideas.

Daily Cleaning Routine for Quartz Countertops

Implementing a daily cleaning routine keeps your quartz countertops pristine and prevents grime from accumulating. Here’s an easy, effective method to follow:

Wipe down with a microfiber cloth: A soft, damp microfiber cloth is ideal for daily cleaning, as it won’t scratch the surface.
Use a gentle, pH-neutral cleanser: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with water, or use a cleaner specifically designed for quartz countertops. Spray lightly, then wipe with a clean cloth.
Avoid excess moisture: While quartz is water-resistant, it’s best to avoid soaking. Just a light spray and a quick wipe are usually enough.

Deep Cleaning Tips for Quartz Countertops

Once in a while, or when dealing with tougher grime, a deep cleaning session is beneficial:

Apply a quartz-safe cleaner: Look for a pH-balanced, non-abrasive cleaner that’s specifically formulated for quartz surfaces.
Let stains soak briefly: For more stubborn spots, spray the cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen any residue.
Use a plastic scraper if necessary: Gently scrape away any dried residue like hardened food particles with a plastic putty knife.

For tougher stains that won’t go away, professional advice can be helpful. You can always reach out to our team at Stone Valley Countertops for assistance on caring for your quartz countertops.

Tackling Common Stains on Quartz Countertops

Quartz is resilient but not immune to certain stains, especially if spills are left sitting too long. Here’s how to tackle common types of stains safely:

Oil-based stains: Use a few drops of dish soap mixed with water to tackle oily spots. A gentle degreaser can also help, but ensure it’s quartz-safe.
Coffee and wine: Create a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the stained area, and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping clean.
Sticky spills: For gum or adhesives, use a small amount of rubbing alcohol to dissolve the residue, followed by a gentle wipe.

If you need personalized advice, feel free to consult Stone Valley Countertops, where our experts can provide insights on tackling unique stains or cleaning challenges.

Products to Avoid When Cleaning Quartz Countertops

To avoid damaging the beautiful finish of your quartz countertops, steer clear of the following products:

Harsh chemicals like bleach: Bleach and strong disinfectants can damage quartz’s resin, potentially leading to dulling or discoloration.
Abrasive scrubbers or pads: Steel wool or rough sponges can scratch the surface and leave permanent marks.
Highly acidic cleaners: Vinegar, lemon, or ammonia-based cleaners should be avoided as they can weaken quartz over time.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions for Quartz Countertops

Eco-conscious homeowners might prefer natural solutions. Here are some safe, DIY options:

Diluted vinegar solution: Though typically not recommended for daily use, a very diluted vinegar solution can occasionally help with heavy buildup. Just be sure to rinse with water immediately afterward.
Baking soda paste: Baking soda and water form a gentle abrasive paste that can help with tougher stains. Apply, let sit for a few minutes, then gently wipe.
Mild natural soap: Plant-based dish soap diluted with water offers a gentle yet effective clean.

Polishing Quartz Countertops for Extra Shine

To maintain the high gloss of quartz, regular polishing is key. Here’s how to safely polish quartz countertops:

Use a quartz-safe polish: Apply a quartz-specific polish sparingly, using a microfiber cloth to spread it evenly.
Buff gently: Using circular motions, buff the surface to a streak-free shine.
Finish with a dry cloth: Remove any excess polish for a clean, polished finish.

Quartz Countertop Maintenance Tips

Protecting your quartz countertops from avoidable damage can extend their lifespan and keep them looking new. Here are some maintenance tips to remember:

Use cutting boards: Avoid direct knife contact to prevent scratches.
Avoid placing hot items directly on the surface: Although quartz is heat-resistant, use trivets or pads under hot pans.
Clean spills quickly: Promptly wipe up acidic spills, such as wine or lemon juice, to reduce the risk of any discoloration.

For more on maintaining your quartz countertops or choosing the right cleaning products, our team at Stone Valley Countertops is happy to help. We provide expert guidance, and you can get a free estimate here to explore quartz options tailored to your style and budget.

FAQs

Can I use disinfecting wipes on quartz countertops?
It’s best to avoid strong disinfectants as they may damage quartz. Opt for mild dish soap and water for safe, effective cleaning.

How can I remove stains from my quartz countertops?
For general stains, a baking soda paste or mild cleaner can do wonders. Apply, let it sit for a few minutes, and wipe with a soft cloth.

Are quartz countertops heat-resistant?
Yes, quartz is heat-resistant but not heatproof. Use trivets or heat pads to prevent thermal shock or resin damage.

How often should I clean my quartz countertops?
Wipe down your quartz countertops daily and do a deeper clean weekly to prevent stains and grime buildup.

Can I polish my quartz countertops at home?
Yes, you can use a quartz-safe polish and buff with a microfiber cloth to restore shine without damaging the surface.

Is vinegar safe for cleaning quartz?
Only in very diluted form and used sparingly. Always rinse immediately with water to prevent damage.

Conclusion

Cleaning quartz countertops is straightforward and doesn’t require any specialty products beyond mild soap, water, and a soft cloth. Regular care, combined with mindful habits, ensures that your quartz counters remain as brilliant and durable as ever. For professional guidance, installations, or repairs, Stone Valley Countertops offers unparalleled expertise and support. Visit our blog for more insights on quartz countertops, or get started on your next project with a free estimate. With proper care and a few simple habits, your quartz countertops will shine beautifully for years to come.