Cleaning Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops — engineered stone made from 90%+ natural quartz crystals bound with polymer resins — are by far the most common countertop material in new Ontario kitchen renovations. Their consistent patterning, non-porous surface, and lower maintenance requirements compared to natural stone have made them the default choice. Understanding how to care for them properly maintains both appearance and the resin binder that holds the surface together.
Daily Cleaning
Quartz countertops clean easily with a soft cloth or sponge and warm water, or with a mild dish soap solution. Wipe up spills promptly — while quartz is non-porous and highly stain-resistant, acidic spills (red wine, coffee, juice) left for extended periods can discolor the resin binder. Rinse with clean water after cleaning with soap to prevent residue buildup.
Stubborn Stains
For dried food or residue: allow a damp cloth to sit on the spot for a few minutes to soften it before wiping. For sticky residues: a plastic scraper (never metal) removes hardened material without scratching. For oil-based stains: a small amount of dish soap on the spot, left 5 minutes, then wipe and rinse.
What to Avoid
- Bleach and oxidizing cleaners: Break down the resin binder over time, discoloring the surface permanently
- Abrasive scrubbers: Scratch the resin surface — scratched quartz loses its sheen permanently
- High-pH cleaners: Oven cleaners and similar alkaline products damage the resin binder
- Cutting directly on quartz: Quartz scratches with metal — always use a cutting board