What is Quartz?
Quartz is a crystalline material mainly composed of silica, and has a mineral hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it harder than marble which registers 3 on the Mohs scale. Quartz is durable, aesthetically pleasing, and is relatively more affordable than other natural stones, which leads to its popularity as a countertop surface material.
Quartz countertops are stain resistant, and can withstand moderate pressure without scratching. The material is also heat-resistant, making it perfect to use in kitchens, on patios, and in other areas around the house.
How to Clean Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are comparatively low maintenance compared to other natural stone materials like marble or granite. Because natural quartz is a hard material, it resists scratches well, and is less porous, so stains don't set easily. Cleaning quartz countertops should be done regularly to keep the quartz surface smooth and shiny.
Step 1: Create a Soapy Solution
Quartz can be cleaned without any special cleaning solutions or materials. A solution of mild dish soap diluted with plain, warm water is efficient in removing most of the oils, grease, and food grime on your kitchen countertop surface, and is safe to use on quartz surfaces as well. Just mix together warm water and a few teaspoons of dish soap.
Step 2: Clean Quartz Countertops
Dip a cloth or sponge into the dish soap and warm water mixture, and squeeze out the excess. Use the damp sponge to clean your quartz countertops, making sure to cover the entire surface. Go over each area twice or thrice, before rinsing the cleaning solution away with a sponge dipped in plain water.
Step 3: Spot Clean Stains
While quartz countertops are stain resistant, they may still gain stains when left to sit too long. Dried food particles, spills, and mold growth can cause discoloration on your quartz countertop, and it is important to remove tough stains before they set.
To spot clean stains on quartz surfaces, wipe off any remaining spills. Mix baking soda and water to create a thin paste, then apply the paste directly on stained areas. Let the solution sit for at least 15 minutes, then use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the stains away, moving in circular motions to prevent streaks.
Step 4: Wipe with a Dry Cloth
Take your microfiber cloth, or any clean, lint-free cloth, and wipe the countertop dry to finish cleaning the entire countertop surface. Your quartz countertop should now have a clean, glassy finish, and a reflective surface without any raised bumps or stains.
How to Sanitize Quartz Countertops
Sanitizing your quartz countertop will help keep your home healthy as you remove germs and bacteria that could otherwise make you sick. Disinfect quartz countertops at the end of every day for the best cleaning care.
Disinfecting Quartz Countertops with Alcohol
Isopropyl alcohol is gentle enough to use on quartz, and will kill off most germs and viruses from your table. Apply isopropyl alcohol on a clean cloth or sponge, and use this to wipe the entire surface of your countertops clean. Let the alcohol dry on the surface.
Disinfect Your Quartz Countertops with Cleaning Solution
Because stone countertops are notoriously picky with their cleaning solutions, commercial disinfectants are available in the market specifically formulated for natural stones. You can use these commercial disinfectants, like StoneCare and Granite Gold, to clean and disinfect quartz countertops safely and effectively. Make sure to study and follow the instructions on the bottle.
Disinfect Quartz Countertops with Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another disinfectant safe to use on quartz. To disinfect quartz countertops with hydrogen peroxide, fill a spray bottle with hydrogen peroxide and water in a 1:1 ratio. Spray the solution all over the entire surface, and wipe with a clean cloth. Let the solution dry completely.
Optimize Your Cleaning
At Luce Home, we know not everyone has time and effort to spare for cleaning the entire house everyday. Plus, there's so much to do at the end of each day, that just thinking about those chores can already put a damper on your spirits.
Don't fret the cleaning, and schedule your next cleaning session with one of our professional cleaners to ensure your home is kept pristine easily and conveniently! Our cleaners know how to sanitize different materials, so you know we'll get the job done right.
Contact us today, and keep your home maintained and spotless!
