Quartz is one of the easiest countertops to keep looking new, but a few common cleaning habits can dull its finish over time. Here is the right way to clean it and what to avoid.
Everyday Cleaning in 60 Seconds
Because engineered quartz (Cambria, Caesarstone, Silestone) is nonporous, dirt and spills sit on the surface instead of soaking in. That means daily cleaning is genuinely simple and never requires sealing. For routine wipe-downs, warm water and a drop of mild dish soap on a soft microfiber cloth handles almost everything.
- Wipe spills as they happen so nothing dries onto the surface
- Use warm water, a little dish soap and a soft cloth for daily cleaning
- Dry with a clean towel to prevent hard-water spotting, common with South Florida's mineral-heavy tap water
- For a streak-free shine, follow with a quartz-safe or pH-neutral spray cleaner
Tackling Dried-On Gunk and Sticky Messes
Dried food, candle wax or gum will lift off without harsh chemicals. Let a warm, damp cloth sit on the spot for a minute to soften it, then gently scrape with a plastic putty knife held at a low angle. For sticky residue like adhesive, a dab of rubbing alcohol on a cloth works well and rinses clean.
The key is patience over pressure. Soaking loosens messes far more safely than scrubbing, which protects the polished finish.
What Not to Use on Quartz
Quartz is durable, but its resin binders and finish can be harmed by the wrong products. Skip anything highly acidic, highly alkaline or abrasive. These are the offenders to keep away from the counter:
- Bleach and bleach-based cleaners, which can discolor the surface
- Oven cleaner, drain cleaner and other harsh degreasers
- Abrasive powders or scouring pads that scratch the polish
- Undiluted vinegar, lemon and other acids used repeatedly
- Permanent markers and strong solvents left to sit
Protecting the Finish Long-Term
The one real weakness of quartz is heat. The resins can scorch or discolor when a hot pan is set directly on the surface, so always use trivets and hot pads. Also use a cutting board rather than slicing directly on the stone, which keeps knives sharp and the surface pristine.
With this simple routine, quartz stays showroom-fresh for decades. If you ever notice a stubborn spot you cannot lift, our team is happy to help with advice through a quick message. Learn more about the material on our quartz countertops page.
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Request a Quote Explore Quartz CountertopsFrequently asked
Do I need to seal quartz countertops?
No. Quartz is nonporous and never needs sealing, unlike granite, marble or quartzite. Regular cleaning with a mild soap or pH-neutral cleaner is all it needs.
Can I use disinfecting wipes on quartz?
Occasional use is fine, but many wipes contain citric acid or bleach that can dull the finish over time. For daily cleaning, warm water with dish soap or a quartz-safe cleaner is gentler.
Why does my quartz have water spots?
South Florida's hard water leaves mineral deposits when droplets air-dry. Drying the surface with a towel after cleaning prevents spotting.