Unlike other natural countertop materials, quartz is an engineered countertop, combined with resins, polymers and pigments to give it the great look and durability it is known for. This process improves the product, since you don’t have to seal it, it won’t stain or support propagation of microorganisms. Moreover, it is almost maintenance-free.
Does this mean you don’t have to care for quartz countertops? In a word, no.
Though the material only needs cleaning and disinfecting, you still have to maintain it at all times. Everyday maintenance involves wiping off fresh spills with a soft cloth. Read on to learn more.
Routine cleaning of quartz counters
Naturally, quartz doesn’t stain in cases of spills of wine, vinegar, water, tea, soda and lemon juice. However, it’s still essential to wipe off spills immediately, before they dry, using a soft dry cloth and a mild dishwashing detergent.
If stains do dry, use a glass or surface cleaner and a nonabrasive sponge – and a little elbow grease. If you ever have the unfortunate experience of gum, food, paint, nail polish or another substance that hardens after drying and it sticks to the surface, use a putty knife to gently scrape it off.
Cooking grease is a challenge, but can still be removed with a sponge and dishwashing detergent. In the case of grease, use a degreaser. Most degreaser products will show the instructions to follow.
In cases where permanent marker finds its way onto your quartz countertop, simple dishwashing detergent won’t cut it. Here, you’ll have to use alcohol or another product that removes marker stains. Run a little alcohol on the stain and then rinse off with clean water.
It’s also important to know how to disinfect quartz countertops. Spread a little disinfectant on the surface and wipe with clean water.
Take a look at the collection of countertops from Caesarstone to learn more what makes quartz easy to care for.
What to avoid with quartz countertop care
Quartz countertops are easy to care for, but you might make costly mistakes while you’re at it. To keep your countertop looking its best, there are a few things you need to avoid:
- Acids, alkalines and abrasives: Harsh cleaners and scouring pads will dull the surface of your quartz countertop. You need only mild cleaning soap to get the job done. Products with nail polish remover and turpentine, among other products with strong acids or alkalis , are not ideal for cleaning purposes. However, quartz will tolerate weak acids and weak alkalis.
- Heat: Do not place hot pots and pans on your countertop. Instead, use trivets and hot pads to protect the counter. While natural quartz does not scorch when exposed to heat, the resins and polymers used during to manufacture countertops can melt. However, most quartz countertops will withstand up to about 148 degrees Celsius – but prolonged exposure to heat will cause damage and scorch marks.
- Dicing or slicing fruits and vegetables: Although quartz is a durable material, it doesn’t resist marks caused by sharp knives. When cutting fruits and vegetables, be sure to use a chopping board.
- Throw away warranty certificate: When you buy a quartz countertop, you get a lifetime warranty for indoor use. Once you have read and reviewed your warranty certificate, store it away safely. You may never need it, especially if you take care of your quartz countertop, but sometimes manufacturer defects require the warranty certificate.
- Sealing quartz counters: Quartz countertops do not require sealing like other counter materials. Let the shiny surface of your countertop be. Quartz countertops are nonporous, which means liquids will not seep in to stain or discolor your counter, so no sealing is required to keep the counter looking new.
Why use quartz countertops at home?
Quartz counters are ideal for all areas on your home, including the kitchen, fireplace, bathroom and any other space that you feel needs a countertop. Among other materials, quartz is easier to care for. For other materials such as granite and marble, you will need to seal and regularly reseal, at least twice a year. The fact that you don’t need any sealant on quartz makes the maintenance process very easy.
Besides ease of maintenance, quartz countertops are durable. The natural quartz stone ranks as the seventh hardest stone in the world. This makes it resistant to scratches, chipping and breaking. Although high heat might damage your counter, you will likely enjoy many decades of use. Again, during manufacture, different pigments are added to give quartz unique colours. You are not stuck with the natural look of stone with quartz; you can add any patterns or colours you need to make your counter great looking. For all these benefits, you will pay a little more than you would with other counter materials.
The bottom line
Clearly, quartz countertops are trending, and with good reason. Their strength and durability are among the most appealing features, but without proper care, they may be damaged or stained to the point the manufacturer’s warranty won’t apply.
When well cared for, quartz countertops will maintain their shine, and the pigments won’t fade. And once you learn proper care and disinfecting techniques, this will all help keep your kitchen or bathroom clean.