A gleaming quartz countertop can make a kitchen feel brand new every single morning. But that beauty doesn’t just happen on its own. Yes, it is easy to care for, but it still requires attention.
With the right care, your quartz stays as flawless as the day it was installed, without losing its shine to stains, scratches, or buildup. Here’s how to keep yours looking like the pride of your home.
Why Proper Quartz Countertop Cleaning Matters
Your quartz countertop isn’t just another surface. It’s the centerpiece of your kitchen or bathroom, the part guests notice, and the place you prepare meals, pour coffee, and set down groceries.
Quartz is an engineered stone, built from crushed quartz crystals with resin to create a surface that’s durable, non-porous, and resistant to everyday stains and scratches. But here’s the catch — it’s not indestructible.
- Harsh cleaners can break down the resin that gives quartz its smooth, glossy finish.
- Improper scrubbing can leave tiny scratches that catch light and ruin the seamless look.
- Neglected spills can lead to stains that become nearly impossible to remove without risking more damage.
Unlike some natural stones, quartz can’t be refinished or polished back to new once the surface is compromised. Damage is permanent, which makes maintenance more than just “keeping things clean” — it’s protecting an investment.
When you clean your quartz the right way, you’re not only removing crumbs or smudges. You’re making sure your countertops keep looking like the day they were installed for years.
The Best Way to Clean Quartz Countertops Daily
Daily care is what keeps your quartz looking its best year after year. A few simple habits can prevent stains from setting in and keep the surface streak-free without wearing it down.
Here’s the routine:
- Wipe spills immediately: Coffee, wine, juice — don’t give them a chance to sink in. Even though quartz is non-porous, quick cleanup helps prevent sticky residue and keeps your quartz looking fresh.
- Use mild dish soap and warm water: Mix a small amount of mild dish soap in warm water. Dip a soft cloth or microfiber cloth into the solution and gently wipe the quartz surface. This is the safest way to clean quartz countertops without dulling the finish.
- Rinse with clean water: After wiping, go over the counter with a soft cloth dampened in clean water to remove any soap residue. Leftover soap can cause buildup over time.
- Dry for a streak-free finish: Buff the surface dry with a soft cloth. This step doesn’t just prevent water spots — it gives your quartz that smooth, polished feel.
Why it works: This method avoids abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals, which can damage the resin in engineered stone. Done daily, it’s the best practice for keeping both kitchen countertops and bathroom counters looking as perfect as the day they were installed.
Preventing Damage and Keeping Quartz Countertops Looking New
Quartz is durable, but that’s not the same as indestructible. A few mindful habits will keep your countertops looking their best year after year.
- Always reach for a cutting board instead of chopping directly on quartz counters. This protects the surface from scratches and keeps your knives sharper, too.
- Protect from heat by using trivets or hot pads under pans, slow cookers, or baking trays. Even though quartz is tough, sudden high heat can damage the resin that binds it.
- Clean spills right away so stains don’t have a chance to set. Everyday messes may wipe up easily, but acidic or pigmented liquids are best handled immediately.
- Book a deeper clean with a professional every so often. A non-abrasive cleaner and expert care can remove buildup and keep your countertops sparkling clean without risking damage.
Avoid using vinegar, bleach, or abrasive scrubbers on your quartz countertop. These can dull the finish, scratch the surface, or weaken the protective seal, making it harder to remove stains later. With the right care, maintaining quartz countertops is easy, and the reward is a flawless surface you’ll love for decades.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Quartz countertops are a beautiful blend of durability and style, but their lasting beauty depends on the care you give them. With the right cleaning habits, your counters will stay as stunning as the day they were installed.
See the difference in person — visit any of our Cutting Edge Countertops locations and see surfaces that inspire, in styles you’ll love for years to come. Your dream space starts here.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the best quartz countertop cleaner for everyday use?
A mild cleaner made with dish soap and warm water is often the best way to clean quartz countertops daily. Apply it with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth, then rinse with clean water to remove any residue. For streak-free results, dry the quartz surface with a soft cloth.
2. Can I use glass cleaner on quartz countertops?
No. Quartz countertops are ~90–95% quartz + 5–10% polymer resins. It’s the resins that are vulnerable. Problematic ingredients in some glass cleaners like ammonia or amines can discolor or haze the resin over time.
3. How do I remove tough stains from quartz countertops?
For stains from your quartz countertop, use a specialized quartz cleaner or a gentle cleaning solution safe for stone countertops. Apply it with a non-abrasive sponge and let it sit briefly before wiping. Avoid harsh detergents or abrasive pads that could damage the countertop material.
4. Is quartz resistant to stains?
Quartz is highly resistant to stains because it’s a non-porous stone. While everyday spills are easy to clean, certain substances like coffee, wine, or tomato sauce should be wiped quickly to prevent discoloration and keep your quartz countertops looking their best.
5. What cleaners should I avoid using on quartz?
It’s best to avoid bleach, vinegar, abrasive scrubbers, and any harsh cleaning solution that could dull the finish or damage the countertop. Never use an abrasive sponge or steel wool directly on your quartz. Stick with mild dish soap and water or a cleaner like a pH-balanced quartz cleaner.
6. How can I keep my quartz countertops looking new?
Keeping your quartz countertops looking like new means wiping spills right away, using a cutting board instead of chopping directly on the quartz stone, and cleaning regularly with mild dish soap and water. For added shine, use a quartz countertop cleaner and polish occasionally.
7. Do quartz countertops need professional cleaning?
Quartz countertops don’t require frequent professional cleaning, but scheduling a deeper clean once in a while can help maintain their sparkle, especially if buildup has formed. A professional cleaner can use specialized quartz cleaning products to make your quartz surfaces look as good as the day they were installed.