How to Clean Quartz Worktops: The Only Guide You Need

Quartz worktops are among the easiest stone surfaces to care for, but getting the cleaning routine right matters. The good news is that the basic rules are simple and require nothing more than products you probably already own. The key is knowing what to avoid as much as knowing what to use, because the wrong products can cause permanent damage to a quartz surface that would otherwise last for decades.

Daily Cleaning Routine

For everyday cleaning, warm water and a small amount of mild washing-up liquid is all you need. Apply with a soft cloth or microfibre cloth, wipe the surface down, and dry with a clean cloth. This simple routine, done after cooking and before bed, will keep a quartz worktop looking excellent for years.

Microfibre cloths are particularly effective on quartz because they pick up grease and food residue without the need for significant quantities of cleaning product. They also leave a streak-free finish, which matters particularly on polished quartz where streaks are visible.

What to Avoid

Several common household cleaning products can permanently damage quartz worktops. Bleach and bleach-based cleaners will discolour the resin binders in quartz, causing permanent lightening or patchy white marks. Oven cleaners, drain cleaners, and any strongly alkaline or acidic products should be kept well away from the quartz surface.

Abrasive cleaning pads, including wire wool, rough scouring pads, and even some branded kitchen wipes with a textured surface, can micro-scratch a polished quartz surface. These scratches accumulate over time and eventually make the surface appear dull. Always use a soft cloth or non-scratch sponge.

Acetone and nail polish remover should also be avoided, direct contact with these solvents can attack the resin binders in quartz, causing localised damage. If nail polish lands on a quartz surface, use a non-acetone remover or a specialised quartz cleaner to address it.

Tackling Stubborn Stains

For dried food or stubborn marks, a plastic scraper, such as a credit card or a dedicated kitchen scraper, can be used to gently loosen the deposit before cleaning with warm soapy water. Do not use metal scrapers or knives to scrape quartz surfaces.

For adhesive residue from price stickers or tape, a small amount of Goo Gone or a similar adhesive remover designed for stone surfaces can be used. Apply carefully to the affected area, leave briefly, then wipe clean. Always check product compatibility with quartz before applying to a large area.

Recommended Products

• Method All-Purpose Surface Spray (pH neutral, safe for quartz)
• Seventh Generation Multi-Surface Cleaner
• Granite Gold Quartz Brite (specifically formulated for quartz surfaces)
• Warm water and mild washing-up liquid (the best everyday option)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Flash or Dettol on quartz?

Most Flash and Dettol spray products contain ingredients that are safe for quartz in dilute form and brief contact, but they are not ideal for regular use. The active ingredients in some antibacterial sprays can affect the quartz surface over time with repeated use. For routine cleaning, mild washing-up liquid and water is a safer and equally effective choice.

Can I use a steam cleaner on quartz?

We do not recommend using a steam cleaner directly on quartz worktops. The intense heat and moisture can penetrate joins and potentially affect the resin binders, particularly if applied repeatedly over time.

Does quartz need to be polished or sealed?

No. Quartz is non-porous and does not require sealing at any point. Some companies sell quartz polishes that can enhance the surface appearance, but they are not necessary for maintenance, a properly cleaned quartz surface maintains its appearance without polishing.

Conclusion

Caring for quartz worktops is genuinely simple. Warm water, a mild detergent, and a soft cloth is all you need for daily maintenance. Avoid bleach, acid cleaners, and abrasive products, and your quartz surface will reward you with years of excellent performance and lasting good looks.