How to Clean Quartz Countertops (Daily and Tough Stains)

Quartz countertops are popular across the US and Canada because they're durable and don't need sealing. But "low maintenance" isn't "no maintenance": the resin binders in engineered quartz can be damaged by harsh chemicals and heat. Here's how to clean quartz countertops day to day, remove tough stains, and avoid damage.

Quick answer: Wipe quartz daily with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap on a soft cloth, then dry it. For dried spills, scrape gently with a plastic putty knife. For stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner made for quartz, or a paste of baking soda and water applied gently. Avoid bleach, oven cleaner, abrasive pads and very hot pans.

Daily Cleaning

Wipe crumbs off with a soft cloth.
Mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap.
Wipe the surface with a soft cloth or non-scratch sponge.
Rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry with microfiber to avoid streaks.

Tough Stains

Stain	What to do
Dried food, gum, paint	Scrape gently with a plastic putty knife, then wash
Grease	Mild degreasing dish soap or a quartz-safe degreaser; rinse well
Coffee, tea, wine	Baking soda paste on a soft cloth, wipe gently, rinse
Permanent marker / ink	Dab a cloth with a little rubbing alcohol, wipe, rinse with water
Hard water spots	A quartz-safe cleaner; avoid repeated strong acids

Always test on a small, hidden area first and check your countertop manufacturer's care guide.

What to Avoid on Quartz

Bleach, oven cleaner, drain cleaner and other high-alkaline or harsh chemicals: they can damage the resin and dull the surface.
Abrasive pads and scouring powders: they scratch and dull the finish.
Hot pans straight from the stove or oven: heat can scorch or discolor the resin. Use trivets.
Cutting directly on the counter: use a cutting board (and learn how to clean a wooden cutting board).
Leaving spills to sit, especially oils, wine and turmeric.

Disinfecting Quartz

Many quartz makers say diluted isopropyl alcohol on a cloth is fine for occasional disinfecting: wipe, let it sit briefly, then rinse with water. Avoid daily use of harsh disinfectant sprays unless your manufacturer approves them.

Quartz vs Granite Care

Granite is natural stone and needs periodic sealing; quartz doesn't. Both should avoid harsh chemicals. Granite owners: see How to Clean Granite Countertops Safely.

Weekly Shine Routine

Clear the counters.
Wash with warm soapy water.
Spot-treat stains with baking soda paste.
Rinse and buff dry with microfiber (see our microfiber cloth guide).

Related Kitchen Guides

How to Deep Clean Your Kitchen · How to Clean Greasy Kitchen Cabinets · How to Clean Stainless Steel Pans

FAQ

Can I use vinegar on quartz?

Diluted vinegar occasionally is usually fine, but frequent use of acids isn't recommended by many manufacturers. Mild soap is the safest daily cleaner.

Are Clorox wipes safe on quartz?

Many contain bleach or strong chemicals. Check your manufacturer's guidance and rinse afterward if you use them.