How to maintain a quartz stone countertop

Quartz stone countertops are made from a combination of quartz powder, dyes, and resin. This popular material closely resembles granite, with a natural glossy finish and requires no polishing. Quartz is also more durable than other materials like laminate and Corian. However, quartz surfaces need proper care to maintain their beauty. To do so, use non-abrasive cleaners, avoid heavy pressure, and prevent sudden temperature fluctuations.

Wipe the surface with a soft cloth and mild soap. Ideally, clean the countertop daily with soap and warm water. You may need to clean the stone surface more often if required. Regular cleaning helps remove everyday marks like fingerprints, which are more visible on polished stone surfaces.

Scrape off dried debris. Use a blunt plastic tool, such as a plastic spatula, to gently scrape off dried liquids or built-up residue like grease, chewing gum, paint, or nail polish. Be careful while scraping to avoid damage to the surface.

• Keep a plastic spatula handy in a nearby drawer so you can quickly remove any dried mess from the countertop.

Clean grease with a degreasing product. Use a disinfectant degreaser that doesn't contain bleach and spray it on the countertop. Alternatively, you can use bleach-free wet wipes. After spraying, wipe with a sponge or damp cloth.

• Look for cleaning products specifically formulated for quartz countertops.
• If unsure, check the brand of the cleaner online or call to confirm if it's safe for quartz surfaces.

Scrub stubborn stains with an adhesive remover. Dampen a cloth with a citrus-based cleaner such as Goo Gone. If the stain is tough, apply a small amount of cleaner directly to the stain, wait for 5-10 minutes, and then wipe. Finish by wiping with warm water.

• This method works well for sticky stains like adhesive or caramel residue.

Use isopropyl alcohol. Soak a cloth in rubbing alcohol. Scrub the stain with the damp cloth and then wipe the surface with warm water.

• This technique is effective for stubborn stains that soap and water can't remove, like ink, dye, or marker stains.

Occasionally use glass cleaner for deep cleaning. Ensure that the cleaner you use is compatible with your quartz countertop brand. Spray the glass cleaner on the surface, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it off with a damp cloth.

• Some quartz countertop brands recommend using glass cleaner for cleaning, while others advise against it.
• Dark-colored quartz countertops may fade over time if cleaners containing ammonia are left on the surface.

Wipe up spills as soon as possible. Quartz can resist stains for a short period, but it's important to clean up any spills promptly to prevent stains from becoming permanent. Use warm water and mild soap for cleaning.

• Wine, coffee, and tea are some liquids that can permanently stain quartz surfaces if not cleaned immediately.

Protect the countertop from extreme temperatures. Use trivets underneath hot pans, dishes, pots, and electric skillets. Place coasters under cold drinks, especially those containing citrus or alcohol.

• Although quartz can withstand temperatures up to 150°C, it can suffer damage quickly from sudden temperature changes, known as 'thermal shock.'

Avoid cutting directly on the quartz surface. Always use a cutting board when preparing food. While quartz countertops are highly scratch-resistant, they can still be damaged by sharp objects.

• Using a cutting board will also help keep your knives from dulling.

Avoid using harsh cleaners. It's important not to clean your countertop with cleaners that are highly acidic or alkaline. If any such cleaner spills onto the surface, promptly wipe it off with mild soap and then rinse with water.

• For example, avoid using nail polish remover, turpentine, oven cleaners, bleach, drain cleaners, dishwasher detergents, trichloroethane, or methylene chloride solvents.

Avoid putting pressure or impact on the surface. Don't drop heavy objects onto the countertop. Be cautious when moving items around. The countertop may chip or crack if subjected to strong impacts.

• The warranty on the product may be voided if you disregard these warnings.

• Non-abrasive mild soap
• Soft cloth (such as microfiber fabric)
• Non-scratching sponge
• Water
• Plastic-matted knife
• Cutting board
• Pot holder
• Cup coaster
• Grease cleaning agent
• Goo Gone or rubbing alcohol
• Glass cleaner