Quartz countertops look beautiful, but keeping them that way takes the right approach. Many people make cleaning mistakes that dull the surface or cause permanent damage.
Using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers can ruin your investment in just minutes. The best part is that proper cleaning takes only a few minutes each day.
This guide shows you exactly how to clean and maintain quartz countertops safely. You’ll learn which cleaners to use, which ones to avoid, and how to remove tough stains without scratching.
We’ll cover daily cleaning routines, deep-cleaning methods, and simple habits to keep your countertops looking new for years.
Why Cleaning Quartz Countertops Is Important?
Quartz countertops resist stains well, but they aren’t completely stain-proof. You need to wipe up spills right away to avoid permanent marks.
Coffee, tea, and wine can leave stains if you don’t clean them quickly. Regular cleaning keeps your countertops shiny and helps them last longer. A little daily care goes a long way in protecting your investment.
Dos and Don’ts for Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Knowing what to do and what to avoid can save your countertops from damage. Here are the key rules to follow for safe and effective cleaning.
Dos:
- Clean Spills Immediately: Wipe up liquids like coffee, wine, and oils as soon as they happen to prevent stains from setting in.
- Use Gentle Cleaners: Stick to mild dish soap mixed with water for your daily cleaning routine.
- Use Microfiber Cloths: These soft cloths clean well without scratching or leaving streaks on the surface.
Don’ts:
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid bleach, vinegar, or strong cleaners that can harm the resin binding in quartz.
- Don’t Use Abrasive Scrubbers: Steel wool and scouring pads will scratch your countertop and ruin its smooth finish.
- Avoid Heat Damage: Never place hot pots or pans directly on quartz, as it can cause cracks or discoloration.
Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Quartz Countertops
Follow these simple steps to keep your quartz countertops clean and looking new. Each step uses safe materials that won’t harm the surface.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mild Dish Soap | Daily cleaning and removing grease |
| Warm Water | Mixing with soap for gentle cleaning |
| Spray Bottle | Easy application of cleaning solutions |
| Microfiber Cloths | Scratch-free wiping and polishing |
| Baking Soda | Removing stubborn stains naturally |
| Isopropyl Alcohol (70%) | Disinfecting surfaces safely |
| Magic Eraser (optional) | Tackling tough, persistent stains |
| Cutting Board | Protecting the surface from knife scratches |
| Hot Pads or Trivets | Preventing heat damage from cookware |
Step 1: Clean Spills Immediately
Wipe up spills the moment they happen. Use a damp cloth or paper towel to stop liquids from soaking into the surface. Quick action prevents stains from forming.
Materials Used: Damp cloth or paper towel, warm water
Step 2: Use a Gentle Cleaner
Mix mild dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on your countertop and wipe it down with a microfiber cloth. This method cleans most messes without damaging the quartz.
Materials Used: Mild dish soap, warm water, spray bottle, microfiber cloth
Step 3: Disinfect Using Isopropyl Alcohol
Pour 70% isopropyl alcohol into a spray bottle for disinfection. Spray it directly on the surface and let it sit for a moment. Then wipe it clean with a microfiber cloth.
Materials Used: 70% isopropyl alcohol, spray bottle, microfiber cloth
Step 4: Deal with Stubborn Stains
Make a paste using baking soda and water for tough stains like coffee or wine marks. Apply the paste to the stain, scrub gently, and wipe it clean. For persistent stains, use a Magic Eraser carefully to avoid scratching.
Materials Used: Baking soda, water, microfiber cloth, Magic Eraser (optional)
Video Tutorial
Special thanks to Clean That Up for providing valuable insights in their video, which I referenced while creating this guide.
How Often Should You Clean Quartz Countertops?
The frequency of cleaning depends on how much you use your countertops. Here’s a simple schedule to keep them in top condition.
Daily Cleaning
Wipe down your countertop with a damp microfiber cloth every day. This removes crumbs, spills, and debris before they cause problems. Daily cleaning takes just a minute but prevents stains from building up.
Weekly Cleaning
Do a deeper clean once a week using dish soap and warm water. This tackles any grease or grime that daily wiping might miss. A weekly scrub keeps your countertops looking fresh and spotless.
Monthly Deep Clean
Once a month, disinfect your countertops with 70% isopropyl alcohol. You can also treat any tough stains with a baking soda paste during this time. Monthly maintenance helps your quartz stay bright and hygienic for years.
Alternative Methods for Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Sometimes you need different cleaning options based on what you have at home. Here are three alternative methods that work well for quartz surfaces.
1. Using pH-Neutral Quartz Cleaner
pH-neutral cleaners are explicitly made for quartz countertops. They clean effectively without harsh chemicals that can harm the resin. Spray the cleaner on your countertop and wipe it with a microfiber cloth. This method is safe for daily use and keeps your surface looking polished.
- Best For: Regular cleaning and maintaining shine
- Caution: Always check that the cleaner is labeled as safe for quartz
2. Lemon Juice and Water Solution (Occasional Use)
Mix a small amount of lemon juice with water for light cleaning. This solution can brighten your countertops and remove minor stains. Use this method only occasionally because lemon juice is acidic and can damage the surface with frequent use. Always rinse thoroughly with plain water after cleaning.
- Best For: Light cleaning and occasional brightening
- Caution: Don’t use this method regularly, as acid can weaken the resin over time
3. Vinegar and Water (For Tough Stains, but Use Sparingly)
Dilute vinegar with water for stubborn stains that won’t come off easily. Apply it only to the stained area and wipe quickly. Vinegar is acidic, so avoid using it frequently or leaving it sitting too long. This should be your last resort for really tough spots.
- Best For: Rare tough stains that other methods can’t remove
- Caution: Use sparingly and rinse immediately to prevent damage to the quartz surface
How to Remove Stains from Quartz Countertops
Tough stains need special attention to remove them safely. Here are three proven methods that work without damaging your countertops.
- Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste, apply it to the stain, scrub gently, and wipe it away.
- Isopropyl Alcohol: Soak a microfiber cloth in 70% isopropyl alcohol and rub it on stubborn spots until they lift.
- Magic Eraser: Use a Magic Eraser on persistent stains with gentle pressure to avoid scratching the surface.
Pro Tips for Maintaining Quartz Countertops
Use a two-towel system when cleaning: one microfiber towel for applying cleaner and another for buffing dry to prevent streaks.
Always cut food on a cutting board rather than directly on the countertop to avoid knife scratches. Protect your quartz from heat by using trivets or hot pads under hot pots and pans.
This prevents thermal shock that can cause cracks or discoloration. These small habits make a big difference in keeping your countertops beautiful.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your quartz countertops clean doesn’t have to be complicated. Stick to gentle cleaners like dish soap and water for daily maintenance.
Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubbers that can damage the surface. Quick spill cleanup and regular cleaning will keep your countertops shiny for years to come.
Remember to use cutting boards and hot pads to prevent scratches and heat damage. These small habits protect your investment and save you from costly repairs down the road.
Ready to give your countertops the care they deserve? Start with these simple cleaning methods today. Have questions or your own cleaning tips?
Drop a comment below and share your experience with us!