Quartz countertops are a durable and beautiful addition to all homes as they combine the elegance of natural stones with the durability of engineered materials. They are low maintenance and easy to clean compared to many natural stones, however, understanding how to care for quartz countertops is an important asset all the same and these tips and tricks will help the stone keep its pristine condition for years to come.
Before diving into the specifics of how to care for quartz countertops, it is important to take a second to explore quartz closely. Quartz is a half-natural, half-engineered stone. It is composed of crushed quartzite mixed with pigments and resins. The manufacturing process results in a material that is non-porous and, thus doesn’t need sealing or resealing. It is also highly resistant to bacteria, stains, mold, scratches, and more.
As it doesn’t need sealing like natural stones do, one of the most important facets of countertop maintenance can be completely disregarded. This significantly reduces the amount of money and effort you will need to spend on the maintenance of your countertops. Quartz countertops are also available in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing homeowners to express their style freely.
Daily cleaning routine
When it comes to countertop maintenance, a daily routine will be your best tool. Don’t underestimate the power that a simple routine can hold in keeping your countertops brand new.
The most important factor of daily cleaning is to use simple and mild products. As this is for daily cleaning, a soft sponge or cloth is the best tool. As a cleaner, you can use a mild dish soap and mix it with water in a spray bottle. Gently wipe down the surface using the cleaning solution and a soft cloth. This routine will clean most spills, dirt, and debris from the surface.
Regular cleaning will prevent build-up from occurring on the countertops. In addition to food and drink spills, hard water also can cause build-up on the countertops. Cleaning them daily will ensure that all of the grime is wiped away.
Abrasive cleaners and pads can cause scratches on the surface of the countertops and these scratches can turn into a problem over time. Avoid products like steel wool as it can exfoliate the first layer of the countertops over continuous use.
Dealing with spills and stains
Although quartz countertops are stain-resistant, they are not completely impenetrable. When it comes to stains, the best way to combat them is a preventative approach.
The first step in dealing with spills is to wipe them as soon as they occur. You can use a soft cloth or paper towel for this. Then, immediately clean and rinse the area with soapy water. This will be the best course of action for preventing stains before they even occur. Common liquids that can cause stains are drinks such as coffee, tea, and wine. Acidic substances such as lemon juice or vinegar are also frequent culprits.
If you are dealing with a stain that has already occurred and you are having trouble removing it, you can try quartz stain removers that are formulated specifically for this purpose. Apply the stain remover directly on the stain and let it rest for a few minutes. You can leave it longer depending on the instructions on the bottle.
You can also try using a non-abrasive scrubbing pad with the cleaning solution. As long as you aren’t using an abrasive pad and only applying gentle pressure, the countertops aren’t likely to get damaged.
Preventing damage
Similar to how quartz is highly resistant to stains, but not impermeable, it is also highly durable against scratches while not being indestructible. Protecting the countertops from heat and pressure is an essential step for countertops maintenance.
The best tip for protection against heat damage is to use trivets. They are an easy way of eliminating heat damage with minimal effort. The manufactured ingredients in the quartz slab aren’t heat resistant, therefore using trivets or hot pads is essential as the heat can cause discoloration.
Also, a cutting board is a must instead of chopping directly on the countertops. Direct contact of the knife to the countertops can cause scratches, therefore don’t forget to always use a cutting board, which will also be beneficial for the knife.
Long-term maintenance
Beyond the necessary steps of daily cleaning, these are the additional tips you can adhere to so that your countertops are in top condition.
Periodically inspecting the countertops so that you can catch any signs of damage early is an important preventative step. This will ensure that any possible chip or crack will be dealt with before it becomes a bigger problem. Small chips can be repaired with resin that matches the color of the countertops, however, bigger chips will require professional attention.
Avoid dropping heavy objects on the countertops as the sudden heavy impact can cause chips or cracks. Be mindful when replacing heavy appliances or cooking tools to ensure the longevity of the countertops.
Products to Avoid
Certain products can be harmful for the countertops and knowing which ones to avoid is important. Harsh chemicals such as bleach can break down the resin or the bonds between the ingredients of the quartz slab. As a result, the slab can be irreversibly damaged and the color of the countertops can change. Instead, you should use mild and pH-neutral cleaners.
Moreover, soaps that have an oil base can cause build-up over time and the oil can leave a residue behind. The build-up of the residue can cause the shine of the countertops to dull, making them appear older. Moreover, the residue can attract more dirt and grime, creating a hard to clean surface.
Restoring the shine
As the countertops are used daily, they can lose their shine as everyday wear and tear starts to take its toll. It is essential to know how to care for countertops to keep them looking their best.
An easy way to bring back the shine would be to buff the surface with a dry microfiber cloth after cleaning the countertops. This simple step can help with bringing back the shine as it can help with removing any possible leftover buildup, residue, or streaks.
For an extra boost, you can also apply a polish that is designed specifically for quartz countertops. You can research and read reviews to find the right one for you. Make sure to carefully read the instructions before applying it on the countertops and follow them closely.
Following these simple steps and understanding how to care for quartz countertops will keep your countertops looking gorgeous for years. For the best quartz countertops, visit Keystone Marble and Granite. Their high-quality selection will elevate the beauty and functionality of your kitchen. Contact their customer care team for a personalized consultation and get one step closer to actualizing your dream home.
