Jul, 2020
Quartz countertops are a smart decision for a kitchen not only
because the mineral is so abundant, but also due to their natural ease
of maintenance. Quartz is a naturally hard and scratch-resistant
material which makes it ideal for a kitchen surface, where so many items
of different temperatures are being set, cut, and dragged across. Even
better, quartz is a non-porous material, so there is no worry of
bacteria being harbored beneath the surface or of stains causing
permanent marks. The only problem people can have is keeping quartz
looking lustrous with frequent use.
Step 1 - Clean the Countertop
Using warm, soapy water, scrub down the countertop completely. Do not
worry about scratching or harming the surface as quartz is not a fussy
or delicate material. however, abrasive pads should still be avoided.
Though they may not scratch the quartz, abrasive scrubbers can often
leave streaking in the polish, as well as residue, behind. For
particularly stubborn areas, apply a small amount of vinegar to the spot
and leave a wet rag sitting on top for several minutes to loosen gunk.
Do not use oil-based soaps for this. Dulling of the shine occurs because
of residue left behind on the countertop. Oil-based soaps are often
used on porous surfaces because they are designed to soak in, not to be
completely removed. Standard dish soap is best.
Step 2 - Thoroughly Rinse
Using the spray bottle, liberally soak the countertop with water, being
sure to really get it wet. Most streaking also comes from soap or food
residue left on the surface. Due to quartz being non-porous, nothing
becomes absorbed into the countertop, and this can leave a film on the
surface which is not experienced with other materials. Use a sponge to
scrub the quartz, and wipe the water off with a clean, dry cloth. There
should be no streaks when it's thoroughly dried.
Some people have good experience using a squeegee, though practice is
needed to achieve a streak-free shine or for use on large surfaces.
Step 3 - Spray Window Cleaner
One of the great qualities about window cleaners is their grease-cutting
powers. In a kitchen especially, a lot of grease gets dispersed through
the air when cooking and can settle on surfaces, creating a gunky film.
To remove cooking film from the quartz, spray the space with window
cleaner. Do not over-spray. less is more in this instance. Another
application can be applied, but it is hard to completely take off excess
window cleaner. Wipe the counter down with a soft cloth moving from
left to right, top to bottom. If lint is a problem, use a paper towel
instead. The window cleaner should dry quickly leaving a streak-free,
shiny countertop. Many chemical-free, natural, or organic window
cleaners are available if you have chemical contamination concerns.
Step 4 - Avoid Using More Polish
Quartz countertops are polished within the manufacturing company, using a
sealing surface polish. Further polish added to the top will only
create excess buildup which will further the dull look.