Congratulations!!! You just purchased the quartz countertops of your dreams, and you are excited to show them off! However, there is one thing you are not sure of… what is the proper way to clean them? The worst thing would be to improperly clean them and the result would be a damaged and/or an unattractive new countertop.
It is important to realize that stain resistant is not the same as stain proof. Although quartz will resist permanent staining when exposed to certain liquids or even some fruits and vegetables, it is critical to wipe up spills immediately. Never wait until the spill has had a chance to dry. Liquids to beware of include soda, lemon juice, tea, coffee, wine, and vinegar. Household cleaners that are highly discouraged include oven cleaners, lime scale removers, bleach, and repeated use of acetone.
Cleaning fresh spills with dish soap and a soft cloth, e.g., microfiber is your best bet. If you prefer to purchase a product specifically formulated for countertops select one that can also be used on granite or marble. Beware, too, of harsh cleaning solutions at both ends of the pH spectrum. With repeated cleaning over time using harsh chemicals can result in etching or a disintegration between the quartz and resin bonds. What once was a beautiful new show piece will suddenly leave you with a sick feeling in the pit of your stomach. So aware of the correct cleaning solutions to use.
What other tips can help to keep your quartz countertops in tip top shape?
- Abrasive scouring pads and cutting directly on the countertop are highly discouraged.
- Hot pads should be your quartz countertop’s best friends. Because the resin used in manufacturing quartz countertops is a plastic it is prone to melting with temperatures greater than 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Slicing and dicing is not recommended directly on your quartz countertop. Although quartz is hard it is not hard enough to withstand the continuous use of sharp objects like knives.
- Quartz is not recommended for outdoor installation. The direct sunlight will lead to fading within a year, and eventually can lead to splitting or warping.
So do not risk it! Stick with the basics and you are likely to enjoy your new quartz countertops for years to come!
For more information, contact Distinctive Marble & Granite today (614) 760-0003.
We offer almost every line of quartz material for your convenience. You can view full slabs or sample tiles in our Award-Winning Showroom today!