Quartz care and Maintenance
Caring for your quartz countertops is relatively easy, as quartz is a durable and low-maintenance material. However, like any surface, it requires some attention to keep it looking its best over time. Here are some essential tips on how to care for and maintain your quartz countertops:
1. Clean Regularly
Daily Cleaning: Wipe down your quartz countertops daily with a soft cloth or paper towel and a mild dish soapsolution mixed with warm water. This will help to remove dust, dirt, and light stains.
Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Avoid using abrasive or acidic cleaners (such as bleach, ammonia, or vinegar) because they can damage the surface or dull the finish. Stick to gentle, non-abrasive cleaners.
2. Wipe Up Spills Immediately
Prevent Stains: While quartz is resistant to stains, it’s still a good idea to clean up spills as soon as they happen, especially from acidic substances like wine, coffee, tomato sauce, and citrus. These can potentially cause discoloration if left too long.
Use a Soft Cloth: For spills, simply wipe them up with a soft cloth or paper towel. If necessary, you can use a mild soap and water solution to clean the area.
3. Use Coasters, Cutting Boards, and Trivets
Avoid Direct Contact with Hot Items: Although quartz is heat-resistant, it’s still best to avoid placing hot pots, pans, or baking sheets directly onto your quartz countertop. The high heat could potentially damage the surface, so always use a trivet or heat pad for hot items.
Protect from Scratches: While quartz is harder than most other surfaces, it's still a good practice to use cutting boards when chopping or slicing food to prevent any risk of scratching. Avoid using knives directly on the surface.
4. Seal the Countertops (If Required)
Check if Your Quartz Needs Sealing: Most quartz countertops on the market are engineered with resin and are non-porous, so they generally don't require sealing. However, it's always a good idea to confirm with your supplier or fabricator whether your specific countertop needs periodic sealing.
Occasional Sealing: If you are using quartz with a natural stone composition or it’s an older style, a sealant can help provide an additional layer of protection. Apply a high-quality sealant if recommended.
5. Avoid Abrasive Cleaning Tools
Use Soft Cleaning Tools: Avoid using abrasive cleaning tools like steel wool, scrub brushes, or scouring pads. These tools can scratch the surface of the quartz. Stick to soft sponges or cloths to clean your countertops.
6. Prevent Heavy Impacts
Avoid Dropping Heavy Objects: While quartz is strong, it can still be susceptible to cracking or chipping under heavy impact. Be cautious when dropping heavy items, such as pots or tools, onto your quartz countertop.
7. Use a Cutting Board for Food Prep
While quartz is scratch-resistant, it's still wise to use a cutting board when chopping food to avoid damaging your knives and your countertop. This will also keep your knives sharp and your countertop free from scratches.
8. Keep Sharp Objects Away
Prevent Scratches: Although quartz is highly durable, it's always a good idea to avoid dragging sharp objects or heavy, rough tools across your countertop. Use a cutting board or protective mats if you're doing heavy work on the countertop.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Care:
Regularly Inspect for Damage: While quartz countertops are generally very resilient, it’s still a good idea to check them periodically for any chips or cracks. If you notice damage, contact a professional to repair it quickly and prevent further issues.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Quartz countertops can fade over time if exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. If possible, place your quartz surfaces away from direct, prolonged sunlight, especially if the countertop is light in color.
By following these basic steps, you can keep your quartz countertops looking brand new and ensure they last for years to come. Regular maintenance and simple precautions will help preserve the beauty, durability, and shine of your quartz surfaces.
If you have any other questions or need more specific advice, feel free to ask!