At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we know that homeowners in Birmingham, AL love quartz countertops for their elegance, durability, and easy maintenance. Still, proper care is key to keeping quartz looking beautiful for years to come. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to care for quartz counters—answering some of the most common questions our clients ask about maintaining their stunning quartz surfaces.
How Do You Maintain Quartz Countertops?
Quartz countertops are known for being low-maintenance, but they still benefit from regular care. To keep them in top shape, simply wipe down the surface daily with a soft cloth or sponge and mild dish soap mixed with warm water. This helps remove crumbs, grease, and residue without damaging the finish. Avoid abrasive scrubbers or harsh cleaners, as these can dull the surface over time. For tougher messes, use a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for quartz. Make sure to wipe up spills promptly—especially from coffee, wine, or citrus—to prevent potential discoloration. With these small habits, your quartz counters will stay glossy and spotless.
What Destroys Quartz Countertops?
While quartz is one of the most durable countertop materials available, it’s not indestructible. The main threats to quartz come from excessive heat, harsh chemicals, and abrasive cleaning products. Placing a hot pan or baking sheet directly on quartz can cause thermal shock, leading to cracks or discoloration. Always use trivets or hot pads to protect the surface. Strong chemicals such as oven cleaners, drain uncloggers, paint strippers, and bleach-based products can break down the resin binders in quartz, dulling the finish or even causing permanent damage. Finally, cutting directly on the surface can leave scratches. Using cutting boards and cleaning with gentle products will go a long way in preserving your quartz countertops.
Can You Use Clorox Wipes on Quartz Countertops?
This is a question we hear often from Birmingham homeowners, and the short answer is: it’s best to avoid Clorox wipes. While convenient, most disinfecting wipes contain harsh chemicals and alcohol that can break down the sealant and damage the resin that gives quartz its shine and strength. Over time, repeated use can lead to dull spots or a weakened surface. Instead, choose a mild, pH-balanced cleaner or make a simple solution of warm water and dish soap. For disinfecting, mix equal parts water and 70% isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle, lightly mist the countertop, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a clean cloth. This method safely kills germs without compromising your quartz.
Is Dawn Dish Soap Safe on Quartz?
Yes—Dawn dish soap is perfectly safe for quartz countertops and is one of the best everyday cleaning solutions available. Its gentle formula effectively cuts through grease and grime without harming the finish or causing discoloration. To use, simply mix a few drops of Dawn in warm water, dip a soft cloth or sponge in the solution, and wipe down your counters. Rinse with clean water and dry with a microfiber towel for a streak-free shine. The key is moderation—using too much soap can leave a film, so a small amount goes a long way. Regular cleaning with mild dish soap keeps your quartz fresh, clean, and radiant without the risk of damage.
How Do You Protect Quartz Countertops?
Protecting quartz countertops is mostly about prevention. Start by using cutting boards, hot pads, and coasters to shield the surface from scratches, heat, and stains. Wipe up spills right away, especially those from acidic substances like lemon juice, vinegar, or wine, which can dull the finish if left too long. Avoid leaning or placing heavy appliances on unsupported overhangs, as excessive weight can cause cracks. Additionally, keeping your kitchen well-ventilated helps reduce humidity, which can prolong the life of your countertops. Finally, consistent cleaning with gentle, non-abrasive cleaners will maintain their polish. With a few mindful habits, your quartz counters will continue to look showroom-new for many years.
How Often Do You Need to Seal Quartz Countertops?
One of the biggest advantages of quartz countertops is that they never need to be sealed. Unlike natural stone options such as granite or marble, quartz is an engineered material composed of ground quartz crystals and resin, creating a non-porous surface. This means it naturally resists stains, bacteria, and moisture without requiring any sealing or resealing. Routine cleaning is all that’s necessary to keep the surface sanitary and shiny. That said, it’s still important to avoid using waxes or polishes not made for quartz, as they can leave buildup or cause streaking. By skipping the sealant and focusing on proper daily maintenance, your quartz counters will stay beautiful and resilient for decades.
At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we’ve installed countless quartz countertops across Birmingham homes, and we know how much our clients value their beauty and strength. With a few simple care habits—using gentle cleaners, protecting the surface from heat and scratches, and avoiding harsh chemicals—you can keep your quartz counters looking like new for years to come. If you’re considering quartz for your next kitchen or bathroom remodel, our team is here to help you select, install, and maintain the perfect surface for your space. Contact Reliable Design-Build-Remodel today to learn more about how to care for quartz counters!
Reliable Design-Build-Remodel is a full service general construction firm and remodeling contractor operating in the Birmingham metro and Jefferson and Shelby County areas and surrounding communities, including Birmingham, Helena, Chelsea, Mountain Brook, Hoover, Homewood, Montevallo, Alabaster, Vestavia Hills, and Pelham, with over 30 years of servicing our valued clients. Offering full service suite of general remodeling, design and build services. Our specialties include bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, exterior renovations, interior renovations, painting, and more!
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