You’d never think of washing your face with shampoo, would you? It’s the same thing with keeping surfaces in your space clean — each one is unique and requires a custom regimen for keeping it looking and performing its best.
Quartz surfaces are no exception. Although quartz is notoriously durable and low-maintenance, there are still ways to make sure the quartz surfaces in your home remain in immaculate shape that lasts. Put these eight products on your shopping list to get started.
1. Daily Spray Cleaner
Since quartz is essentially an impermeable material, it won’t hold moisture and bacteria like other more porous surfaces — such as wood and marble — do. So instead of antibacterial sprays, look for a gentle daily spray cleaner to loosen messes from the counter, whether it’s your toddler’s toothpaste or coffee rings and bacon grease from a Sunday breakfast.
Make it yourself at home with vinegar and water or opt to purchase a natural stone cleaner like QuickClean.
2. Microfiber Cloth
A microfiber cloth is the next most important product to have handy. They’re great because they:
- Are rough enough to agitate anything stuck to the quartz
- Absorb any moisture left behind
- Can be rinsed and wringed out to keep in good shape for longer than a typical cotton cloth
Plus, the fine microfibers are non-abrasive, leave no dust or lint, and can absorb fat and grease.
3. Soft Brush
Some residue requires more agitation than a microfiber cloth can provide. For these stains, use a soft brush, similar to one you’d use to clean your fine china. Start with warm water and follow with gentle agitation from the brush.
4. Plastic Scraper
When a soft brush won’t do the trick, soak the dried-on residue in warm water and then approach with a plastic scraper.
5. Polish Spray
You won’t need this product if you have a brushed or bush-hammered finish, but polished finishes do benefit from a polish spray such as Plus 10. In addition to adding shine and enhancing the color of your quartz, these sprays also have a sealing quality, which helps ensure that any moisture that comes in contact with the quartz will bead up and become easier to remove.
Aim to use polish spray once a week (or before hosting company).
6. Cutting Board
Despite being highly scratch resistant, don’t mistake your quartz countertop for a cutting board. Instead, keep wood or other stone cutting boards handy when using knives and other sharp objects.
7. Hot Pad
Though highly heat resistant, quartz is not immune to direct heat. Use a trivet or a thick hot pad as a buffer between the quartz surface and heat sources such as hot baking pans, pots right off the stovetop, or heated curling irons.
8. Fabric or Plastic Drop Cloth
If you’re having work done near a quartz surface, throw a drop cloth over it before the plumber, painter, or other contractor pays a visit. It doesn’t take much effort, but it can go a long way in protecting your quartz from toolboxes, drain cleaners, paint drops, and abrasive materials.
In addition to knowing which products will help your quartz last, it’s important to watch out for common household products that can harm your quartz surface. Products to keep away from quartz include:
- Acetone (nail-polish remover)
- Harsh toilet-bowl cleaners
- Abrasive cleaners
- Scrubbing powders
With the right tools and a little elbow grease, your quartz surface is sure to dazzle for years to come.
Quartz surfaces aren’t the only ones that need their own unique treatment to stay in great shape. Learn how to keep your marble surfaces mess-free.
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Tom Lundberg is the vice president of VMC Technical Assistance Corporation. In his nearly three decades of industry experience, he has developed systems, tools, and chemicals in the field of stone restoration and maintenance. He has provided training on projects ranging from personal homes to historical projects to resorts and casinos.