Quartz countertops are stylish, durable, and low maintenance — which explains why they’ve become one of the most popular choices in modern kitchens. According to a 2024 Statista report, 42% of U.S. homeowners chose quartz for their kitchen remodels, making it the top material ahead of granite and laminate.
But here’s the truth: Quartz isn’t indestructible. While it resists stains and scratches better than many surfaces, using the wrong cleaners or habits can cause long-term damage. To keep quartz looking flawless, you need to know exactly what to do — and what not to do.
In this guide, we’ll cover seven essential do’s and don’ts of quartz care. Follow these tips, and your countertops will stay as glossy and durable as the day they were installed.
Key Takeaways
- Clean quartz daily with mild dish soap and warm water.
- Do use cutting boards and trivets to avoid scratches and heat damage.
- Don’t use harsh chemicals like bleach, oven cleaner, or drain cleaner.
- Quartz is durable but not heatproof — protect it from hot pans.
- With proper care, quartz countertops can last for 15 years or more without losing shine.
What Makes Quartz Different from Other Countertops?
Before we dive into the do’s and don’ts, it helps to know what quartz is made of. Quartz countertops are 93% crushed quartz stone mixed with 7% resin and pigments. This makes them non-porous, unlike granite or marble.
That non-porous surface means quartz resists staining, doesn’t need sealing, and is easier to maintain. However, the resin can be damaged by heat and harsh chemicals. So quartz care is all about protecting the surface finish.
Do #1: Clean Quartz Daily with Mild Soap and Water
The best way to care for quartz is simple:
- Mix a drop of dish soap with warm water.
- Dampen a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.
- Wipe the surface gently.
- Rinse with clean water.
- Dry with a soft towel.
💡 Pro tip: Keep a spray bottle with this mix for quick wipe-downs after cooking.
Why it matters: Mild dish soap is pH-neutral, so it cleans without damaging the resin or dulling the shine.
Don’t #1: Use Harsh Chemicals on Quartz
Quartz can resist stains, but harsh cleaners damage the resin.
Avoid:
- Bleach
- Oven cleaner
- Drain cleaner
- High-acid cleaners (vinegar, lemon juice)
The National Kitchen and Bath Association warns that strong chemicals can discolor quartz or cause surface cracking. If you spill one of these by accident, rinse immediately with plenty of water.
Do #2: Use Cutting Boards and Trivets
Even though quartz is scratch-resistant, it’s not scratch-proof. Cutting directly on quartz can leave marks that are hard to polish out.
Always use:
- Cutting boards for chopping.
- Trivets or hot pads for pans, crockpots, or air fryers.
Why it matters: Heat above 300°F can cause the resin in quartz to warp or discolor. Scratches and burn marks are permanent unless repaired professionally.
Don’t #2: Place Hot Pans Directly on Quartz
Unlike granite, quartz is not naturally heat-resistant. The resin can scorch or discolor when exposed to high heat.
- Hot pans, pots, or baking trays should never touch the surface directly.
- Even slow heat (like from a toaster oven) can cause yellowing over time.
🔥 Fact: Consumer Reports testing in 2023 showed quartz surfaces exposed to 400°F pans developed permanent discoloration in under 15 seconds.
Do #3: Wipe Spills Immediately
Quartz doesn’t stain as easily as marble, but colored liquids can still leave marks if ignored.
Wipe spills from:
- Wine
- Coffee
- Tomato sauce
- Curry
- Oils
If stains linger, use a paste of baking soda and water, let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then rinse.
Don’t #3: Use Abrasive Pads or Powders
Steel wool, rough sponges, or abrasive powders can scratch quartz. These scratches not only dull the shine but also make the surface harder to clean.
Stick to:
- Microfiber cloths
- Soft non-abrasive sponges
If dried gunk won’t budge, use a plastic scraper instead of a harsh scrubber.
Do #4: Use a Granite/Quartz-Safe Cleaner for Deep Cleaning
Weekly deep cleaning keeps quartz looking polished. Use a stone-safe cleaner or make your own:
- 50% water
- 50% isopropyl alcohol
- Few drops of dish soap
Spray, wipe, and buff with a microfiber cloth.
Why it works: Alcohol disinfects without damaging the resin. Soap cuts grease. Water rinses everything away.
Don’t #4: Expose Quartz to Outdoor Elements
Quartz countertops are designed for indoor use. Direct sunlight can cause fading, and outdoor moisture can damage the resin.
If you love the look of quartz outside, opt for surfaces specifically labeled as UV-resistant outdoor quartz.
Do #5: Follow the Manufacturer’s Guidelines
Every quartz brand (Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria) has its own care recommendations. Some allow specific cleaners or polishes, others don’t.
Check your warranty documents. Following brand guidelines ensures:
- Maximum durability
- Warranty protection
- Fewer maintenance mistakes
Don’t #5: Assume Quartz Never Needs Maintenance
Quartz is low maintenance — not no maintenance. Skipping regular cleaning and using the wrong habits can lead to dulling and discoloration over time.
Quartz doesn’t need sealing, but it does need:
- Regular cleaning
- Protection from heat
- Protection from scratches
Do #6: Use Coasters and Mats
Simple prevention goes a long way. Use coasters under drinks and mats under small appliances. This prevents rings, scratches, and heat marks.
Don’t #6: Drag Heavy Items Across Quartz
Dragging pots, pans, or appliances can scratch quartz. Always lift and place items instead of sliding them.
Do #7: Call a Professional for Repairs
If your quartz chips, cracks, or stains badly, call a professional fabricator. DIY fixes can make the damage worse.
Professional repairs may include:
- Epoxy for chips
- Polishing for scratches
- Resin color-matching for stains
FAQs
Can I use vinegar on quartz countertops?
No. Vinegar is acidic and can damage the resin in quartz.
How do I disinfect quartz countertops?
Use a mix of 50% isopropyl alcohol and 50% water. Spray lightly and wipe with a microfiber cloth.
Can quartz countertops crack?
Yes, if exposed to sudden extreme heat or heavy impact.
Do quartz countertops fade over time?
They can if exposed to direct sunlight for years. Indoor quartz usually doesn’t fade.
How long do quartz countertops last?
With proper care, quartz can last 15–25 years without major issues.
Quick Quartz Care Checklist
- Wipe daily with mild soap + warm water.
- Dry thoroughly after cleaning.
- Use cutting boards, trivets, and coasters.
- Deep clean weekly with quartz-safe cleaner.
- Avoid bleach, vinegar, and abrasive pads.
- Don’t place hot pans directly on the surface.
- Call a pro for chips, cracks, or deep stains.
Final Thoughts
Quartz countertops combine beauty with practicality. They’re tough enough for everyday cooking but still need mindful care. The biggest mistake homeowners make is assuming quartz is “maintenance-free.”By following these seven do’s and don’ts, you’ll avoid the common pitfalls that lead to scratches, stains, or discoloration. Instead, your quartz will stay glossy, durable, and elegant for years — making your kitchen not just functional, but stunning.
As the chief content writer, Hassan Al Sarker works as a professional kitchen-based content creator at Kitchen Liker.
In addition to reviewing the content published on Kitchen Liker, he ensures that it is accurate, relevant, and helpful. As a result, all the reviews and information published at Kitchen Liker are neutral and userfriendly.
Hassan Al Sarker has a bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Tourism Management From the Newyork University. Before joining Kitchen Liker, he was a contributor at Kitchen Club, United States.